wasChange

wasChange is a software utility designed to monitor directories for file system modifications. It operates by continuously observing specified folders and their contents, detecting changes such as the creation of new files, deletion of existing files, or modifications to file content. The primary function of wasChange is to provide real-time notifications or trigger subsequent actions when these changes are detected.

This tool can be employed in various scenarios. Developers might use it to automatically recompile code when source files are altered, or to refresh a web server when content is updated. System administrators could utilize it for monitoring log file directories for new entries or for detecting unauthorized modifications to critical system files. The utility typically allows users to configure which directories to monitor and what types of events to track.

The underlying mechanism often involves file system event notification APIs provided by the operating system. wasChange leverages these APIs to receive signals from the system whenever an operation occurs within a monitored directory. Upon receiving such a signal, it can then perform a user-defined action, which might include running a script, sending an alert, or logging the event. Its efficiency lies in its ability to react to changes promptly without requiring constant manual polling of the file system.