Transaction Monitoring is a crucial aspect of maintaining the security and performance of any system. In the context of Windows, it refers to the continuous monitoring and analysis of transactions occurring within the operating system and its associated applications. By effectively monitoring these transactions, administrators can identify and resolve potential issues, ensure compliance with security policies, and optimize system performance.

Windows provides several built-in tools and features that can be utilized for transaction monitoring. These tools offer a range of functionalities, from monitoring file and registry changes to tracking network transactions. By leveraging these tools, administrators can gain valuable insights into the behavior of their system, detect any unauthorized activities, and take appropriate actions.

Examples:

1. Monitoring File Changes:

   • Use the PowerShell cmdlet "Get-FileHash" to calculate the hash value of a file before and after a transaction. By comparing the hash values, you can determine if any changes have been made to the file.
   • Utilize the "File System Watcher" class in .NET to monitor changes in specific directories. This allows you to track file creations, modifications, and deletions in real-time.

2. Tracking Registry Modifications:

   • Use the "RegNotifyChangeKeyValue" function in the Windows API to receive notifications whenever a specified registry key is modified. This enables you to monitor changes made to critical registry settings.
   • Leverage the "Event Viewer" tool in Windows to view and analyze registry-related events. You can filter the events based on specific criteria, such as event ID or source, to focus on relevant transactions.

3. Analyzing Network Transactions:

   • Utilize the "Netsh" command-line tool to capture and analyze network traffic. By monitoring network transactions, you can identify any suspicious or unauthorized activities.
   • Use network monitoring tools like Wireshark or Microsoft Network Monitor to capture and analyze network packets. These tools provide detailed information about network transactions, helping you identify potential security breaches or performance bottlenecks.