Software Evaluation
File Protector 2001 SE version 2.05b - Size : 185 KB

INLS 186: Information Security
Allyson Silver
Assignment 1
February 5, 2003


Introduction - Get the Software to WORK!

In order to download File Protector 2001, I first downloaded the executable file from Mikko Technology .  The executable file to run the installation process for a free trial of the software is located at the above link.  The installation process for this software product is quite simple and pretty much all of the process is automated.  Additionally, default folders and suggestions are provided to make the installation process run smoothly despite the technical knowledge of the user.  I was able to successfully install this product, as the instructions and process are all relatively easy to follow.

Installation Review Process  (click for a brief demo of installation process)


Functionality

As previously stated, I downloaded the executable file to install the free trial of File Protector 2001 from its source located at Mikko Technology.  The File Protector program has several options that all work in ways to prevent the user from identity theft or allowing unauthorized access to protected files and folders.  When opening File Protector, there is one main screen, which makes it easy for the user to use the software and does not intimidate a user who may not be technically savvy.  Here is what the File Protector 2001 software looks like:

From this screen you can select Files or Folders/Directories that you want to protect and also determine what type of access, if any, that you will allow.  Protection types include Read Only Access, No Access, Full Hidden, and Invisible Only.  Additionally, a brief description of access types is provided.
 

To show that my software installation was successful and that File Protector works, we see above that I have selected a sub directory of my C Drive to allow No Access at all to the files within the directory.  I have also gone into settings and selected that this directory is password protected.   Below we see the screen that pops up when a user attempts to access the Protected Directory, if the user does not know my preselected password he will not be able to access this file, and will be denied from any further entry into this folder.  If a user enters the wrong password he will see the Access Denied Screen below.

             
 

Overall, I think that this program is fairly simple to use and to understand as a first time user.  Additionally, I agree that this is an easy and inexpensive way to protect files and folders on personal computers.


Description of Software

    File Protector 2001 Special Edition is a software product by CenturionSoft, a software company that specializes in protection and security of files and folders from common attacks and threats.  File Protector 2001 especially popular because it provides ultimate protection of important and confidential data at work or at home.  Uses for this product include protecting financial and tax information, social security and other important numbers, Internet searches, private email and chat conversations, and almost any other file or directory that be accessed from your personal computer.
    There is a FREE 30 Day trial available via the internet, however after installing the software, it is easy to see why purchasing your own copy will be highly beneficial.  The price of File Protector is $34.95 for the boxed version, $24.95 for the downloadable version, and $19.95 for the Serial Number only version (see CenturionSoft for ordering software).  Both options are great and useful values!  In addition, this software can be run on Windows 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000, and XP, so it is highly accessible no matter what operation system you are running.
    File Protector offers several features including determining what access you want for each file or folder, easy editing of file properties, password protection and protecting all files under a selected extension (.jpg or .exe for example).  Additionally, File Protector 2003 will  be released soon, which is sure to have newer features and functions for its users.
    File Protector's targeted audience varies as everyone who uses a computer should seriously consider purchasing this product.  Any computer savvy person is certainly aware that just running a Windows OS or Norton Anit-Virus does not always protect you computer and your files.  Any computer user who is serious about security and protecting files from being deleted, copied, renamed, or moved would certainly benefit from File Protector 2001.  Additionally, in the corporate environment anyone wanting to protect files and folders related to work should check with their employer's information security policies to verify that this product is allowed to protect files in the workplace.  I also believe that any owner of a personal computer that may be shared in the home by family members will benefit from this as File Protector 2001 will protect files from being edited or moved around by children or anyone who is not aware of the importance of a particular file.


Effectiveness of Software

Success of File Protector 2001 is determined by how well the software protects and secures selected files.  Does the software check for security password if this option is selected?  Does the software make a sub directory invisible to anyone who does not have the File Protector 2001 password?  Basically, does the product implement the settings of the user as directed in the File Protector 2001 main screen.  In my experience with the program, the software is very successful and easy to use.  The installation and implementation of the product is very easy, and it successfully accomplished all of the security tasks that I set for my machine.


Recommendation

I highly recommend File Protector for anyone who uses their computer for any work that might be confidential.  I understand that many home users may not have a use for such software, however it is always important if they want to protect any financial records or medical reports of their family members.  I also think that this would be a good product for anyone who work on a university campus as a professor or faculty as a means to protect exams, grades, and other confidential documents.  I honestly think that anyone who downloads this software will find some use of it, as we never know who is paying attention to our computer activity or who even knows the importance of what we keep on our machines.  With this product, we are able to protect our files from identity theft, and being damaged or destroyed by other users.  We are helping to prevent ourselves from any type of loss of data or fraud, and this is highly important in the world of information security.