WideStep Security Software develops Elite KeyLogger Pro. The manufacturer released version 4.8 of the software on July 11, 2010. The monitoring software has a minimalistic feature set but can perform computer surveillance.
Elite Keylogger Pro has three installation modes. Beginning computer users can easily install the application by utilizing the Visible Mode. In this method, the installation of the surveillance application is viewable by all computer users. A series of shortcuts make log viewing an easy task.
With the invisible method, the setup process completely hides the software from all computer users. Only advanced computer administrators should attempt this method of installation. In the invisible mode, the application performs its function in complete stealth. Further, the application processes do not show up in the Windows Task Manager and no desktop shortcuts exist.
Finally, computer administrators can opt to install a standalone log viewer. This handy application makes the viewing of exported or emailed reports trouble-free. After installation, once the system reboots, the application automatically commences its computer surveillance. The monitoring software reliably captures keyboard strokes and screenshots of the monitored user's desktop.
The monitoring software records accessed websites. Computer administrators can not only learn what sites their users are visiting but can also obtain information about the date, time, duration and frequency of visit. This feature can help track users who may be struggling with an addiction to online pornography or gambling.
Moreover, Elite KeyLogger Pro tracks content from social networking sites. Gathered information could include profile updates, uploaded images, played games and other social networking activities. The app records both sides of instant messaging and chat conversations. Supported applications include MSN, AOL, CQ, AIM, Gtalk, Skype and other popular messengers.
The software logs the keystrokes of sent email correspondences. The app's screenshot feature takes pictures of the contents of received messages. It is unfortunate the app is not equipped with more support for both traditional and web-based email.
The monitoring application tracks accessed applications, passwords, User IDs and more. One missing feature is the ability to track file access including the creation, of new documents or the modification and deletion of existing documents. Computer administrators can customize the frequency of screenshots, remote reporting and monitoring frequency.
Parents and employers alike may be disappointed in this app's lack of a content filtering or website-blocking capabilities. Many equally priced surveillance applications offer this feature in one form or another. Also disappointing is the absence of a keyword trigger. For some, the omission of these two critical elements may render the software ineffective for the monitoring of employees and children.
Remote reporting methods include ftp and email. Additionally, the computer administrator can view reports by physically accessing the monitored machine. The app's user interface is well developed and easy to navigate. Eight categories divide the reports. These categories include Keystroke Reports, Screenshots, Internet Activity, Applications History, Clipboard, E-mail, Passwords and Printed Documents. Clicking any category reveals detailed information about the topic.
Many surveillance applications come equipped with a video type playback of all screenshots. Because Elite Keylogger Pro lacks this functionality, the navigation of screenshots is cumbersome and tedious.
Elite Keylogger Pro effectively captures keystrokes. However, for the price, more robust monitoring software applications are available.
