Folder Freeze Guard is a Linux alternative to Shadow Defender for keeping chosen folders in a known-good state, implemented honestly in user space.

What it really does:

• "Freeze" any folder you choose: a full content snapshot made of a SHA-256 manifest plus stored copies in a content-addressed object store (identical files stored once)
• Detect all changes since the freeze: added, modified, deleted, type and permission changes (quick size/mtime mode or full SHA-256 verification)
• One-click rollback (whole folder or selected items) with a dry-run preview; files are restored atomically (temp file + rename) with their original mode and mtime
• Exclusion list (glob patterns such as *.log, cache/, node_modules/)
• "Commit" the current contents as the new frozen state, with garbage collection of snapshot objects that are no longer referenced
• Optional rollback when the app starts and periodic rollback while it is running
• Live activity monitor of the frozen folders using Linux inotify
• History of every freeze, commit and rollback

Honest limitations: there is no kernel driver and no "wipe on reboot" mode. Nothing is protected or rolled back while the app is closed; changes are undone only when you (or the at-launch / scheduled option) run a rollback. Snapshots use disk space in the app's data folder. As a strict snap it can freeze folders in your home (non-hidden) and on removable media.

Disclaimer: This project is an independent open-source tool and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Shadow Defender or its vendor.

Support development: https://buymeacoffee.com/thanhnv128b