Sentinel 2.3

Founded back in the year 2000, Runtimeware is a company that specializes in developing security software solutions for the home user, for enterprise customers and for government sectors. Since the year 2007, the company is offering all its products free of charge. Yes, you do not have to pay a dime to use applications created by Runtimeware. There is a catch though – you can use the applications free of charge only for personal use. You still have to get a license if you want to use the application in a business environment.

Runtimeware’s flagship product is called Sentinel. The application weighs in at less than 2MB, so downloading it should take but a moment – even on a less than spectacular internet connection.

The installation process is equally fast. I counted some 5 clicks from launching the setup wizard and until the application was installed and up and running. The only downside is that you cannot select where the application will be installed. By default it is installed in C:/Program Files and there’s nothing you can do about it.

Speaking of installing Sentinel, the application works on all versions of the Microsoft-developed Windows operating system. This means the old but popular Windows XP, the Windows Vista operating system, and the latest and greatest, Windows 7.

Once installed on the Windows-powered computer, Sentinel works alongside the already installed antivirus or anti-Trojan applications. Sentinel is an advanced integrity checker that brings the following features to the table:
- Audits system folders and up to 20 custom folders for file changes or additions. The antivirus program is prompted for action if any file fails the check.
- Monitors the Windows Registry and informs you if programs attempt to start by using the Registry.
- Secure shutdown feature that ensures viruses or Trojans do not corrupt the system when you shut it down.
- Activity log feature: a log of all files sent to the antivirus application is kept.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Works with all Windows versions
• Advanced integrity checker
• Windows Registry monitoring feature
• Secure shutdown feature
• Works alongside your existing antivirus program
• Free for personal use

Cons

• No too crazy about the UI’s color scheme

Sentinel has been reviewed by George Norman on 20 Apr 2010. Based on the user interface, features and complexity, Findmysoft has rated Sentinel 4 out of 5 stars, naming it Excellent