As we create, store, transfer and access files over different systems and devices, there is always the risk of data corruption or loss. Sometimes, crucial files might get tampered with or damaged unknowingly or intentionally. In such situations, it is important to have a reliable backup and security measure in place, to ensure the integrity and security of your valuable files. This is where file integrity checkers come in handy. In this article, we are going to review one such tool called Filechecker, which offers a simple and efficient way to protect your files from damages and compromises.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Filechecker?
Filechecker is a popular software tool that helps users ensure the integrity and security of their files. It is a lightweight program designed to scan files or directories for corruption and detect any changes or modifications. It uses hash algorithms like MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512, CRC and Adler32, to generate checksums for files. The calculated checksums can then be compared with the original ones to verify the file integrity. Filechecker can be used to check files stored on local drives, USB drives, CDs, DVDs, network shares, FTP/Web servers and cloud storages.
Price:
Filechecker is available as a free version and a paid version. The free version allows users to scan files and compare checksums, but it has limited functionalities and support. The paid version, on the other hand, offers advanced features like file filtering, automatic rescan, scheduled scan, email alerts, and technical support. The paid version is priced at $19.95 for a personal license and $49.95 for a business license. Both versions are compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10.
Basics:
Filechecker offers a simple and intuitive interface, with a toolbar, menu, and status bar. When you launch the program, you can choose to scan a file, a folder, or a drive. You can then select the hashing algorithm you want to use, and start the scan. The program will calculate the checksums and display the results in a tabular format. You can view the original and calculated checksums, the file size, the time stamp, and the status (modified, added, deleted, or unchanged). You can also save the results as an HTML, CSV or TXT file.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
– Easy to use and navigate
– Supports multiple hash algorithms
– Can scan files, folders, and drives
– Generates reports in multiple formats
– Offers a free version
– Affordable pricing for the paid version
– Works with various storage types and platforms
– Saves time and effort in verifying file integrity
Cons:
– Limited functionality in the free version
– Does not offer cloud integration
– Basic interface without themes or customization options
– No mobile or cross-platform support
– No auto-update or upgrade option for the paid version
Our Thoughts on Filechecker
We have tested Filechecker and found it to be a reliable and efficient tool for ensuring file integrity and security. The program is easy to install and use, even for beginners. The variety of hashing algorithms and the option to verify multiple files or directories at once, make it versatile and flexible. The reports generated are detailed and useful, and can be customized to suit your needs. We also appreciate the affordable pricing for the paid version, which includes technical support and additional features. Overall, we believe Filechecker is a must-have tool for anyone who deals with sensitive or critical files on a regular basis.
What Filechecker Identifies
Filechecker can identify any changes or discrepancies in the files and directories scanned, by comparing their original checksums with the calculated ones. The program can detect modified, deleted, added or unchanged files, and display the results in a clear and concise format. This helps users identify any unauthorized access, data tampering, or accidental damage to their files. The program can also verify the integrity of backup or transfer copies of files, to ensure they are identical to the original ones. In short, Filechecker identifies any anomalies or discrepancies in the file checksums, and alerts users to take appropriate action.
How to Use Filechecker?
To use Filechecker, follow these simple steps:
1. Download and install Filechecker from the official website.
2. Launch the program from the desktop or Start menu.
3. Click on the "Add Files" button to select the files or folders you want to scan.
4. Choose the hashing algorithm you want to use from the drop-down list.
5. Click on the "Start" button to begin the scan.
6. Wait for the program to calculate the checksums and compare them with the originals.
7. Review the results in the table and check the status column for any changes.
8. Save the results in the format you prefer by using the "Export" button.
Alternatives to Filechecker
Filechecker is one of the many file integrity checkers available in the market. Here are three alternatives to Filechecker that you might want to consider:
1. HashCheck
HashCheck is a free and open-source program that allows users to generate and verify checksums for files and directories. It integrates with the Windows Explorer context menu, making it easy to use and access. HashCheck supports multiple hash algorithms, including MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and CRC32. The program can be downloaded from the code.kliu.org website.
Download Link: https://github.com/gurnec/HashCheck/releases/
2. QuickHash GUI
QuickHash GUI is a cross-platform, free, and open-source tool that offers a graphical user interface for hash generation and verification. It supports a wide range of hash algorithms, including SHA-3, Blake2b, and Whirlpool. The program can also compare files and directories with a drag-and-drop feature. QuickHash GUI can be downloaded from the quickhash-gui.org website.
Download Link: https://quickhash-gui.org/downloads/
3. PowerHasher
PowerHasher is a free and portable software tool that enables users to compute and verify checksums for files and folders. It offers multiple hash algorithms like MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, and Tiger tree. The program has a tabbed interface with several options and advanced settings. PowerHasher can be downloaded from the coderforlife.com website.
Download Link: https://coderforlife.com/projects/powerhasher/
5 FAQs about Filechecker
Q1: What is Filechecker?
A: Filechecker is a software tool that helps users ensure the integrity and security of their files. It uses hash algorithms to generate checksums for files, and compares them with the original ones to detect any changes or discrepancies.
Q2: What hashing algorithms does Filechecker support?
A: Filechecker supports several hashing algorithms like MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512, CRC and Adler32. The user can choose the algorithm they prefer or need.
Q3: How does Filechecker compare with other file integrity checkers?
A: Filechecker is simple and easy to use. It supports multiple hashing algorithms, and generates reports in various formats. However, it lacks cloud integration and advanced features in the free version.
Q4: Can Filechecker be used to scan files stored on cloud services like Dropbox or Google Drive?
A: No, Filechecker does not support cloud integration at the moment.
Q5: Is Filechecker suitable for personal or business use?
A: Filechecker is suitable for both personal and business use. The paid version offers additional features and technical support for business users.
Final Thoughts
Filechecker is a reliable and efficient tool for ensuring file integrity and security. It is easy to use, supports multiple hash algorithms, and generates detailed reports. The free version is suitable for basic file checking needs, while the paid version offers advanced features and technical support. However, if you need cloud integration or cross-platform compatibility, you might want to check out the alternatives mentioned above. Overall, we highly recommend Filechecker for anyone who wants to protect their files from damages and tampering.