Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Monitoring Software.

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RECORDING/LOGGING

Keystroke Recording

All keystrokes should be monitored and recorded. This would include everything typed into emails, chat rooms, passwords, word processors; this means everything. The keystrokes should be organized in a way to be able to easily view the results by the application that captured the keystrokes as well as being able to filter out any non-visible keystrokes like function keys or the enter key.

Web Surfing Recording (HTTP)

All websites visited should be captured and logged. This should include as a minimum websites address, username, identification of main domain name as opposed to secondary visits, and duration of the visit.

Chat Messenger Recording

The Monitoring software should record both sides of the conversation in a chat room session.

File Transfer Recording (FTP)

The Monitoring application should record any file transfers using the FTP (File Transfer Protocol) format. This is not as prevalent as it once was.

P2P Download Recording

All peer-to-peer downloads should be recorded. This should include at least the major P2P clients for downloading files, including Kazaa, Bearshare, Limewire, Morpheus, and Gnutella.

Instant Messaging Logging

Logging of Launched Applications

All applications that are started should be included. There should also be a facility to differentiate system applications from user applications and it should be easy to understand.

Clipboard Logging

Log all text copied to the Windows clipboard by users.

Password Logging

All passwords entered into any application, whether client based or web based should be captured.

VISUALS

Screen Shot Capturing

A mechanism should be provided to capture screen shots. Options should be included to determine frequency, degree of screen resolution/clarity, and automatic deletion.

Screen Shot Slide Show

An option to view the captured screenshots as a slideshow. When viewed this way, it appears as if you're watching what happened in real-time.

Warning Screen for Monitoring

An option, that can be turned on or off, should exist to notify a user that they are being monitored.

Logs Delivered via Email

The Monitoring application should be able to send various logs to any email address, preferably with the SMTP at the software manufacturer. This should not require any setup more than just entering an email address. Options should also be provided to specify frequency of the delivery and which logs should be sent.

CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS

Stealth Mode/Hot Keys

The application should have the option of running totally in stealth; that is, it is virtually undetectable to the user. The Monitoring application should also NOT show up in the task manager under Windows - at all.

Customized Log Location

The installer should be able to specify where logs are stored.

Settings Export/Import

The Monitoring software should be able to import and export settings making it easy to install multiple copies of the application with customized settings.

Password Protection

Providing an option to either require or not require a password should be provided

Online Upgrades Available

The Monitoring application should provide an option to receive online upgrades upon demand.

Encryption for Logged Files

All log files should be encrypted so accidental discovery of logs make them unusable.

Keyword Detection

There should be an option to identify, log, and record when certain keywords are typed.

APPLICATION MANAGEMENT

Remote Install

The Monitoring software should have an option for installing the software from a remote location.

Remote Monitor

The Monitoring software should be able to import and export settings making it easy to install multiple copies of the application with customized settings.

Scheduled Monitoring

A schedule should be provided to specify monitoring schedules, when to start and when to stop. This should include Days/Dates/Times as well as startup options.

Spyware Detection Disable

The Monitoring application should be able to detect if popular spyware detectors are running and provide an option to disable them.

Automatic Log Deletion

The Monitoring application should allow for automated clearing of your logs, giving you options by log size, entries, or specified days.

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