Open Source Tripwire vs PA File Sight

Open Source Tripwire is free file and directory integrity-monitoring software for Linux, macOS, BSD variants, Solaris, AIX, HP-UX, Minix, Haiku, GNU/Hurd, and Cygwin. It compares the current filesystem with a known baseline and reports differences. A policy file defines monitored paths and checked attributes such as hashes, permissions, and ownership. Policy, configuration, and database files are signed by default, while reports may also be signed. Email reports are available when enabled in configuration. The project suggests scheduling periodic checks with cron, but its install script does not create those jobs. RPM, Debian, and make-based installation use a setup script for initial keys and policy creation. It runs on the user’s own system rather than as a managed service. Windows builds through Cygwin lack Registry monitoring and Windows-specific file attributes. The software uses GNU GPL version 2 or any later version. Separate commercial Tripwire products are also offered.

PA File Sight monitors file integrity, helps protect against ransomware, prevents data loss, and audits file access. It records who creates, reads, changes, moves, or deletes files and folders, with usernames, IP addresses, and computer names. For network-based ransomware, it uses honeypots, heuristics, and executable allow rules to detect and stop attacks. Real-time rules can identify file copying and block access to cloud folders or external drives. Lite and Ultra editions are available; Ultra adds historical reports and advanced alerts for copying activity or information leaks. The product is on-premises, keeping settings, databases, and network information on customer servers. An embedded database is the default, with Microsoft SQL Server as an alternative. Communications use SSL/TLS by default, while stored credentials are encrypted with Microsoft's CryptProtectData function. The central server and Satellite software require 64-bit Windows. The download includes a fully functional 30-day trial without a credit card or purchase. Listed prices include a 30.00 USD monthly Ultra subscription and perpetual licenses.