A network monitoring tool is software or hardware that helps businesses monitor their computer networks and learn more about their security, health, and performance.
These tools record and examine network traffic, monitor network hardware, and give users immediate access to information on bandwidth usage, latency, packet loss, and other crucial network parameters.
Network monitoring tools assist administrators in spotting and resolving network problems, maximizing network resources, guaranteeing network uptime, and proactively spotting and addressing security risks.
These technologies enable enterprises to maintain a stable and secure network infrastructure by offering valuable insights for successful network management through alerting, reporting, and visualization features.
Classifications In Network Monitoring
Network monitoring can be classified into different categories based on various aspects. Here are some standard classifications in Network Monitoring:
Passive vs. Active Monitoring: Passive monitoring includes collecting and examining network traffic without purposefully creating test traffic.
In-Band vs. Out-of-Band Monitoring: In-band monitoring monitors network traffic on the same data stream as the actual network traffic.
Centralized vs. Distributed Monitoring: During centralized monitoring, monitoring information from several network devices and locations is combined into one system.
End-to-End Monitoring: End-to-end monitoring involves monitoring the entire path of network traffic from the source to the destination
Layer-Specific Monitoring: Monitoring of specific network layers, such as Layer 2 (Data Link), Layer 3 (Network), Layer 4 (Transport), or Layer 7 (Application), is the subject of layer-specific monitoring.
Flow-Based Monitoring: Flow-based monitoring involves analyzing network flow data, which provides aggregated information about network connections and their characteristics.
Categories Of Network Monitoring
Network monitoring can be categorized into four main categories based on the focus and scope of monitoring:
Performance Monitoring: The main goals of performance monitoring are measuring and analyzing the performance of network components and services.
Security Monitoring: Security risks and network vulnerabilities are found and addressed in security monitoring.
Fault Monitoring: Finding and diagnosing network problems and irregularities are the main goals of fault monitoring.
Availability Monitoring: The continual accessibility and availability of network services and resources are guaranteed through availability monitoring.
How To Use Network Monitoring Tool
Using a Network Monitoring Tool typically involves the following steps:
Identify Monitoring Requirements: Determine your specific monitoring requirements, such as the metrics you want to track, the devices and services you need to monitor, and the desired level of visibility into your network.
Select a Network Monitoring Tool: Research one that aligns with your monitoring requirements, budget, and network infrastructure.
Install and Configure the Tool: Install the program on a dedicated monitoring server or virtual machine by following the installation instructions. Set up the tool to connect to the services and devices on your network.
Monitor Network Performance: Once the tool is configured, it will collect data from the network devices and services you defined.
Analyze and Troubleshoot Network Issues: Use the monitoring tool’s reporting and analysis tools to learn more about network patterns, past performance information, and potential bottlenecks.
Regularly Review and Fine-Tune Monitoring: Review and adjust your network monitoring arrangement frequently.
Best Network Monitoring Tools
Nagios: Offers comprehensive network and system monitoring with real-time alerts, customizable plugins, and a powerful dashboard for visualizing network performance and health.
Wireshark: A widely-used network protocol analyzer that captures and displays data traffic, helping diagnose network issues and analyze packets in real time.
Paessler PRTG: An all-in-one network monitoring solution offering real-time monitoring, customizable dashboards, and automated alerts for network traffic, applications, and servers.
Zabbix: An open-source monitoring tool providing real-time network, server, and application monitoring with powerful visualization and alerting features.
SolarWinds: Provides a comprehensive suite of network monitoring tools, including real-time traffic analysis, performance metrics, and automated alerts for network devices and applications.
WhatsUp Gold: Network monitoring solution offering real-time network mapping, performance monitoring, and customizable alerts for proactive network management.
Icinga: Open-source monitoring platform that provides real-time network monitoring, alerting, and reporting with support for various plugins and extensions.
ManageEngine: Integrated IT management solution offering network, server, and application monitoring with real-time alerts, dashboards, and reporting.
Cacti: An open-source graphing solution that leverages RRDTool to store data and create customizable graphs for network performance monitoring.
LogicMonitor: Cloud-based monitoring platform providing automated discovery, real-time network monitoring, and customizable dashboards for performance and alerts.
NetFlow: This protocol collects and analyzes network traffic data, helping with bandwidth monitoring, traffic analysis, and troubleshooting.
Pandora FMS: Flexible monitoring tool providing real-time monitoring and alerting for networks, servers, and applications, with customizable dashboards and reporting.
Datadog: Comprehensive monitoring and analytics platform for infrastructure, applications, and logs, offering real-time insights and alerting.
Auvik Networks: Cloud-based network monitoring and management tool with automated network mapping, real-time monitoring, and alerting for network performance.
OpenNMS: Open-source network management platform offering monitoring, event management, and performance measurement focusing on scalability and flexibility.
Microsoft Network Monitor: Network protocol analyzer for capturing and analyzing network traffic, useful for diagnosing network issues and troubleshooting.
Zenoss: An IT monitoring platform that provides real-time monitoring and analytics for network, server, and application performance.
ThousandEyes: Network intelligence platform offering real-time visibility into network performance, outages, and internet health, with detailed path analysis.
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP): This protocol is for network management, monitoring, collecting, and organizing information about managed devices on IP networks.
Atera: IT management platform combining remote monitoring and management, network monitoring, and helpdesk capabilities in one solution.
Network Monitoring Tools And Features
Network Monitoring ToolsFeaturesStand Alone FeaturePricingFree Trial / Demo1. Nagios1. System and network resource monitoring
2. Notifications and alerts for difficulties and outages
3. Monitoring performance and availability
4. Monitoring and management are centralized.Comprehensive monitoring with customizable alerts and plugins.Free, Enterprise version availableNo2. Wireshark1. VoIP troubleshooting and analysis
2. To rebuild sessions, follow the TCP stream.
3. Manipulation and injection of live packets
4. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi packet analysisNetwork protocol analyzer for deep packet inspection.Free, open-sourceNo3. Paessler PRTG1. Storage and analysis of historical data
2. Custom script and sensor development
3. Connection to other systems and tools
4. Role-based access management for users is monitored via a mobile app.All-in-one monitoring with flexible sensor-based licensing.Free up to 100 sensorsYes4. Zabbix1. Custom script monitoring is supported.
2. Access control and user authentication
3. Connection to other systems and tools
4. APIs for straightforward integration and automationOpen-source, enterprise-level monitoring with real-time alerting.Free, open-sourceNo5. SolarWinds1. Monitoring of cloud infrastructure
2. Monitoring the performance of an application
3. Management and analysis of logs
4. Notifications and alerts in real-timeRobust network monitoring with detailed performance analytics.Starts at $2,995Yes6. WhatsUp Gold1. Dashboards and reporting that can be customized
2. Connection to other systems and tools
3. User access control based on role
4. Remote monitoring through a mobile appUser-friendly network monitoring with interactive network mapping.Custom pricing availableYes7. Icinga1. Connection to other systems and tools
2. Automation and configuration management
3. Web-based administration interface
4. RESTful API enabling programmatic access, pushed by the community and open-source.Scalable monitoring with strong alerting and visualization.Free, open-sourceNo8. ManageEngine1. Remote desktop administration
2. Management of mobile devices
3. Management of the firewall and security
4. Connection to other systems and toolsIntegrated monitoring with advanced reporting and analytics.Custom pricing availableYes9. Cacti1. Web-based administration interface
2. Device and interface identification
3. Connection to other systems and tools
4. Architecture that is scalable and dispersedPowerful graphing solution for network performance data.Free, open-sourceNo10. LogicMonitor1. Connection to other systems and tools
2. User access control based on role
3. Architecture that is scalable and dispersed
4. Automation and integration APICloud-based infrastructure monitoring with automated discovery.Custom pricing availableYes11. NetFlow1. Connection to network monitoring tools
2. Optimization of resources and capacity planning
3. Diagnostics and troubleshooting
4. Export and storage of flow dataTraffic analysis and bandwidth monitoring using NetFlow data.It depends on the specific tools usedNo (NetFlow is a protocol, not a particular tool)12. Pandora FMS1. Monitoring of networks and infrastructure
2. Monitoring the performance of an application
3. Management of events and logs
4. Dashboards and reports that can be customizedFlexible, scalable monitoring with customizable dashboards.Free, Enterprise version availableYes13. Datadog1. Monitoring of cloud infrastructure
2. Monitoring the performance of an application
3. Management and analysis of logs
4. Notifications and alerts in real timeCloud-native monitoring with detailed metrics and visualization.Starts at $15/monthYes14. Auvik Networks1. Visibility of network infrastructure
2. Discovery and mapping of network devices
3. Network monitoring in real time
4. Traffic analysis and bandwidth utilizationAutomated network discovery and detailed topology mapping.Custom pricing availableYes15. OpenNMS1. Visibility of network infrastructure
2. Discovery and mapping of network devices
3. Network monitoring in real time
4. Traffic analysis and bandwidth utilizationOpen-source network management platform with extensive features.Free, Enterprise version availableNo16. Microsoft Network Monitor1. Monitoring and control of networks
2. Detection and correction of flaws
3. Performance evaluation and analysis
4. Management of events and alarmsFree tool for capturing and analyzing network traffic.Free, but discontinuedNo (Discontinued, replaced by Message Analyzer)17. Zenoss1. Monitoring and control of networks
2. Detection and correction of flaws
3. Performance evaluation and analysis
4. Event and alarm management Monitoring of service level agreements (SLAs)Unified monitoring with real-time performance and health insights.Custom pricing availableYes18. ThousandEyes1. Benchmarking and comparing performance
2. Integrations with other tools via API
3. Storage and analysis of historical data
4. Collaboration tools for troubleshootingInternet and cloud intelligence platform for monitoring.Custom pricing availableYes19. Simple Network Management Protocol1. MIB (Management Information Base) support for SNMP traps for proactive monitoring
2. Architecture that is extensible and scalable
3. Network monitoring and troubleshooting that is effectiveProtocol for managing devices on IP networks.Free, protocol-based monitoringNo (SNMP is a protocol, not a specific tool)20. Atera1. Integration of customer relationship management (CRM) systems and tools
2. Management on the go using a mobile app
3. Capabilities for billing and invoicing
4. Documentation and a knowledge baseIntegrated RMM platform with real-time monitoring and IT automation.Starts at $79/monthYes
1. Nagios
Nagios
Nagios is an open-source network monitoring tool that provides comprehensive monitoring and alerting for servers, switches, applications, and services, helping organizations ensure system availability and performance.
It offers customizable alerts and notifications, enabling administrators to proactively address potential issues before they affect system performance or availability, ensuring minimal downtime.
Nagios supports many plugins, allowing users to extend functionality and integrate with other IT management tools. This versatility makes it versatile for various monitoring needs.
The tool provides detailed reporting and visualization capabilities, helping users gain insights into network performance, track historical data, and make informed infrastructure planning and optimization decisions.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Storage and analysis of historical data
Capabilities for reporting and visualizing
Scalability is achieved by distributed monitoring.
Connection to other tools and systems
Features for security and access control
Pros and Cons
ProsConsFlexibilityInitial Configuration ComplexityScalabilityUser InterfaceExtensive Plugin EcosystemMaintenance OverheadAlerting and NotificationLack of Autodiscovery
Nagios – Trial / Demo
2. Wireshark
Wireshark
Wireshark is an open-source network protocol analyzer that allows users to capture and interactively browse the traffic running on a computer network, making it an essential tool for network troubleshooting.
The tool supports deep inspection of hundreds of protocols, live capture, and offline analysis, providing detailed visibility into network communications and helping identify network issues and security threats.
Wireshark offers powerful filtering and search capabilities, enabling users to narrow down captured data to specific packets or traffic types, which is crucial for diagnosing and resolving particular network problems.
It is widely used in network administration, cybersecurity, and education. It offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive documentation, making it accessible to beginners and experienced professionals.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Display and preferences can be customized.
Follow the TCP stream for VoIP session reconstruction and troubleshooting.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi packet analysis
Compatibility between platforms
Pros and Cons
ProsConsComprehensive Protocol SupportComplexity for BeginnersReal-time Traffic AnalysisPerformance ImpactPowerful Filtering and Search CapabilitiesPrivacy and Legal ConsiderationsDetailed Packet InspectionLimited Remote Capture Options
Wireshark – Trial / Demo
3. Paessler PRTG
Paessler PRTG
Paessler PRTG is a comprehensive network monitoring tool designed to assist IT professionals in monitoring the performance and availability of their network infrastructure.
PRTG is simple to set up and use. Its simple web-based interface makes it easy for users to configure and personalize the tool to suit their unique needs. It can monitor various network devices, such as servers, routers, switches, and firewalls.
It gathers data from these devices using various protocols, including SNMP, WMI, SSH, and HTTP. Then, it uses a customizable dashboard to show real-time network performance and availability data.
IT teams can keep their networks up and running with Paessler PRTG’s robust and adaptable network monitoring tool, which provides them with the visibility and insights they need to keep their networks operating smoothly and effectively.
Any organization that depends on its network infrastructure to support business operations can benefit from this tool’s customizable dashboard, in-depth reporting, and alerting features.
Why Do We Recommend It?
The capacity to use remote probes for distributed monitoring
Custom script and sensor development
Connection to other systems and tools
Role-based access management for users is monitored via a mobile app.
Pros and Cons
ProsConsEasy to UseCostWide Range of Monitoring OptionsResource IntensiveScalabilityLearning Curve for Advanced FeaturesCustomizable Dashboards and ReportsReliance on Windows Server
Paessler PRTG – Trial / Demo
4. Zabbix
Zabbix
Zabbix is an open-source network monitoring tool that comprehensively monitors networks, servers, and applications. It provides real-time visibility and detailed insights into system performance and health.
It supports various monitoring protocols, including SNMP, IPMI, and JMX, allowing for versatile monitoring capabilities across multiple devices and platforms.
Zabbix features a highly customizable dashboard, enabling users to create personalized views of critical metrics, set up alerts, and receive notifications for potential issues before they escalate.
With robust data collection and analysis capabilities, Zabbix provides extensive reporting and graphing tools, helping users to track trends, plan capacity, and optimize system performance.
Zabbix offers three choices for discovery mode: network discovery, low-level discovery, and auto-discovery.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Custom script monitoring is supported.
Access control and user authentication
Connection to other systems and tools
Capabilities for configuration management and automation
APIs for straightforward integration and automation
Features for security and auditing
Pros and Cons
ProsConsFeature-RichInitial Configuration ComplexityScalabilitySteep Learning CurveFlexible and CustomizableUser Interface DesignPowerful Graphing and VisualizationSystem Resource Requirements
Zabbix – Trial / Demo
5. SolarWinds
SolarWinds
SolarWinds Network Monitoring Tool provides comprehensive visibility into network performance. It enables real-time monitoring of network devices, traffic, and bandwidth utilization, helping identify and resolve issues quickly to maintain network health.
The tool offers advanced features such as automated network discovery, customizable alerts, and detailed performance metrics, ensuring efficient management of network resources and proactive detection of potential problems.
SolarWinds integrates seamlessly with other SolarWinds products and third-party applications, providing a unified platform for monitoring and managing complex IT environments from a single console.
It includes robust reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing users to generate custom reports, track key performance indicators, and gain insights into network trends and overall performance for informed decision-making.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Dashboards and reporting that can be customized
Architecture that is scalable and dispersed
Connection to other systems and tools
Role-based access control for users Mobile app for monitoring on the go
Pros and Cons
ProsConsComprehensive Feature SetCostUser-Friendly InterfaceResource IntensiveScalabilityComplexity for BeginnersRobust Alerting and NotificationReliance on Windows Server
SolarWinds – Trial / Demo
6. WhatsUp Gold
WhatsUp Gold
WhatsUp Gold is a comprehensive network monitoring tool that provides real-time visibility into the health and performance of network devices, servers, and applications, ensuring optimal system operation.
The tool features advanced alerting and reporting capabilities, enabling IT teams to quickly identify and resolve issues, minimize downtime, and maintain high service availability.
WhatsUp Gold supports extensive integrations with various third-party tools and technologies, allowing for seamless data collection, analysis, and action across diverse IT environments.
It offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface with customizable dashboards, making it easy for users to monitor key metrics, track trends, and generate detailed reports for informed decision-making.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Dashboards and reporting that can be customized
Connection to other systems and tools
User access control based on role
Remote monitoring through a mobile app
Network device and service autodiscovery
Pros and Cons
ProsConsEase of UseCostComprehensive Monitoring:Limited Customization OptionsCustomizable Dashboards and ReportsWindows-CentricAlerting and NotificationAdvanced Features and Complexity
WhatsUp Gold – Trial / Demo
7. Icinga
Icinga
Icinga is a network resource monitoring tool that checks for resource availability, alerts users to outages, and generates performance data for reporting. It is scalable and extensible and can monitor complicated environments across many locations.
Your private, public, or hybrid clouds and data centers are included. Icinga gathers data from and sends it to many of your current DevOps tools, allowing you to design a customized monitoring solution that completely meets your requirements.
The open-source Icinga monitoring program, developed as a rival to the Nagios project, allows you to monitor various operational aspects. Icinga gathers metrics and looks for patterns in your log files and log management software directly.
It provides a complete overview by combining and visualizing check results, metrics, and logs in a simple web interface. Icinga additionally offers a web-based interface that lets users view a dashboard-style overview of all the network infrastructure they monitor.
The interface is very user-friendly, allowing users to quickly generate reports, create custom views, and visualize the status of their IT systems.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Integration with additional systems and tools
Automation and configuration management
Web-based administration interface
RESTful API for programmatic access Open-source and community-driven
Pros and Cons
ProsConsOpen-Source and Community-drivenComplexity for BeginnersScalabilityInitial Configuration and SetupFlexible and CustomizableResource IntensiveComprehensive MonitoringDocumentation and User Interface
Icinga – Trial / Demo
8. ManageEngine
ManageEngine
ManageEngine OpManager is an effective network monitoring tool that gives you deep insight into the functionality of your routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, wireless LAN controllers, servers, virtual machines, printers, and storage devices.
ManageEngine is a simple and low-cost network monitoring solution that allows you to identify and eliminate the source of a problem. OpManager offers in-depth analyses of numerous problematic network areas and provides real-time monitoring.
ManageEngine provides a single snapshot page to view performance, bandwidth consumption, and recent device configuration changes. It allows you to identify the source of the problem and resolve it before it affects end users.
ManageEngine works with various platforms and operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. The software can monitor and manage multiple devices, including servers, network devices, applications, etc.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Remote desktop administration
Management of mobile devices
Management of the firewall and security
Connection to other systems and tools
User access control based on role
Pros and Cons
ProsConsComprehensive SuiteFeature Set VariabilityUser-Friendly InterfaceCustomization LimitationsIntegration CapabilitiesSupport and DocumentationScalabilityPerformance and Resource Requirements
ManageEngine – Trial / Demo
9. Cacti
Cacti
In network management, having a reliable and comprehensive monitoring tool is essential to ensure optimal performance and security. Cacti is a popular open-source network monitoring tool with many features for monitoring and graphing network data.
Cacti is a web-based network monitoring tool built on PHP and powered by RRDtool, a round-robin database for efficient data storage and graphing.
It gives administrators a centralized platform for monitoring network devices, tracking bandwidth usage, and analyzing network traffic patterns.
Its easy-to-use interface, advanced graphing capabilities, and automation features make it a popular choice among network administrators.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Web-based administration interface
Device and interface identification
Connection to other systems and tools
Architecture that is scalable and dispersed
Multiple data input techniques are supported.
Pros and Cons
ProsConsGraphing and Data VisualizationSteep Learning CurveOpen-Source and Community SupportManual ConfigurationFlexibility and CustomizationLack of Real-Time MonitoringScalabilityUser Interface
Cacti -Trial / Demo
10. LogicMonitor
LogicMonitor
LogicMonitor is a cloud-based network monitoring tool that offers comprehensive visibility into network infrastructure, including devices, servers, applications, and cloud services, all from a single unified platform.
The tool features automated discovery and configuration, allowing it to quickly identify and monitor new devices and services in real time, ensuring up-to-date network visibility and management.
LogicMonitor provides customizable dashboards and advanced alerting, helping IT teams quickly identify, diagnose, and resolve network issues before they impact business operations or user experience.
It integrates with various third-party tools and services, including cloud platforms, ITSM systems, and collaboration tools, enhancing its versatility and allowing for seamless data flow across IT ecosystems.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Connection to other systems and tools
User access control based on role
Architecture that is scalable and dispersed
Automation and integration API
Multi-cloud and hybrid environment support
Pros and Cons
ProsConsCloud-Based PlatformCostScalability and Ease of DeploymentCustomization LimitationsComprehensive Monitoring Capabilities:Learning CurveAutomated Alerting and Root Cause AnalysisReliance on Internet Connectivity
LogicMonitor – Trial / Demo
11. NetFlow
NetFlow
NetFlow is a network protocol developed by Cisco for collecting IP traffic information, providing detailed insights into network traffic patterns and bandwidth usage across routers and switches.
It helps network administrators monitor and analyze network traffic by capturing metadata about data flows, including source and destination IP addresses, port numbers, and the amount of data transmitted.
NetFlow data is used for traffic analysis, network troubleshooting, and optimizing bandwidth usage, helping organizations identify congestion, unauthorized usage, and potential security threats.
It is widely supported across various network devices and integrated into many network monitoring and analysis tools, making it a versatile solution for comprehensive network visibility and management.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Connection to network monitoring tools
Optimization of resources and capacity planning
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
Export and storage of flow data
NetFlow version support (e.g., NetFlow v5, v9, IPFIX)
Pros and Cons
ProsConsTraffic VisibilityOverhead and Resource UtilizationNetwork Performance MonitoringLack of GranularitySecurity AnalysisLimited Support for Encrypted TrafficScalabilityConfiguration and Maintenance
NetFlow – Trial / Demo
12. Pandora FMS
Pandora FMS
Pandora FMS is a flexible and scalable network monitoring tool that comprehensively monitors servers, applications, and network devices, ensuring optimal performance and availability across IT infrastructure.
It offers real-time monitoring and alerts, allowing administrators to quickly detect and resolve issues, reducing downtime, and maintaining service continuity for businesses of all sizes.
The tool supports various protocols and technologies, including SNMP, WMI, and ICMP, enabling detailed monitoring and management of diverse environments and systems.
Pandora FMS provides customizable dashboards and detailed reporting capabilities. It offers insights into performance metrics, trends, and potential issues, helping organizations make data-driven decisions and optimize their IT operations.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Automation and configuration management
User administration and access control
Monitoring using SNMP and WMI is possible.
Remote monitoring through a mobile app
Architecture that is extensible and modular
Pros and Cons
ProsConsScalabilityLearning CurveCustomization and FlexibilityUser InterfaceComprehensive Monitoring CapabilitiesDocumentationEvent Management and AlertingResources and Performance
Pandora FMS – Trial /Demo
13. Datadog
Datadog
Datadog is a comprehensive network monitoring tool that provides real-time visibility into network performance. It helps organizations track metrics like bandwidth usage, latency, and packet loss across their infrastructure.
It supports integration with various network devices and cloud services, offering a unified view of both on-premises and cloud-based environments, making it ideal for hybrid networks.
Datadog’s advanced analytics and customizable dashboards enable users to quickly identify and troubleshoot network issues, improving overall network reliability and reducing downtime.
The tool also offers robust alerting capabilities. Teams can set up custom alerts based on specific network conditions, ensuring timely responses to potential problems.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Dashboards and graphics that can be customized
Integration of well-known technologies and services
Data ingestion and API capabilities
Tools for collaboration and team management
Anomaly detection and machine learning
Pros and Cons
ProsConsComprehensive MonitoringPricingReal-time VisibilityLearning CurveAlerting and CollaborationCustomization LimitationsAIOps and Machine LearningDocumentation
Datadog – Trial / Demo
14. Auvik Networks
Auvik Networks
Auvik is a cloud-based network monitoring and management tool that provides real-time visibility into network performance. Its intuitive interface and automated alerts help IT teams detect and resolve issues quickly.
The tool offers automated network discovery, mapping, and inventory management, enabling users to comprehensively view all connected devices and their relationships within the network infrastructure.
Auvik integrates seamlessly with other IT systems and tools, providing a centralized platform for managing network configurations, performance metrics, and security policies, enhancing overall network efficiency and security.
It includes detailed reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing users to track network health, performance trends, and usage patterns. This facilitates informed decision-making and proactive network management.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Connection to other systems and tools
Remote administration and access
Analytics and Reporting
Network documentation that is automated
Asset management and device inventory
Pros and Cons
ProsConsNetwork VisibilityLearning CurveAutomated Network DiscoveryPricingConfiguration ManagementPricingNetwork AutomationResource Utilization
Auvik Networks – Trial / Demo
15. OpenNMS
OpenNMS
OpenNMS is a cost-free and open-source network monitoring solution supported by a dedicated community of users, developers, and the OpenNMS Group, which offers commercial services, training, and support.
It can monitor various network devices, including routers, switches, servers, and applications. It is a scalable platform that can be used to monitor large and complex networks.
OpenNMS provides various features for troubleshooting network problems, such as event correlation and alarm management.
OpenNMS’s event-driven architecture allows for the extension of service polling and data collection frameworks as well as flexible workflow integration.
Furthermore, it provides extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor the platform to their network’s requirements.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Dependency mapping and topology
Data gathering and storage for performance
IP address management (IPAM) is the administration of IP addresses.
Remote monitoring and control
Architecture that is extensible and modular
Pros and Cons
ProsConsOpen-SourceComplexityComprehensive MonitoringDocumentationScalability and FlexibilityUser InterfaceCustomization and IntegrationSystem Requirements
OpenNMS – Trial / Demo
16. Microsoft Network Monitor
Microsoft Network Monitor
Microsoft Network Monitor is a robust network monitoring software with many features for capturing, analyzing, and troubleshooting network traffic.
Microsoft Network Monitor, also known as NetMon, is a discontinued packet analyzer that allows you to capture, view, and analyze network data and decipher network protocols.
Microsoft Corporation created it as a free network monitoring tool. It enables network administrators to capture and analyze network traffic in real-time, effectively identifying and resolving network-related issues.
Microsoft Network Monitor has become a valuable asset for network administrators due to its simple interface and powerful capabilities.
It remains a reliable option for those seeking a free and feature-rich network monitoring solution.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Connection to other Microsoft tools
Network traffic graphing and visualization
Resolving network connectivity problems
Network performance monitoring
A tool that is portable and lightweight
Pros and Cons
ProsConsIntegration with Microsoft EcosystemLimited Development and UpdatesUser-Friendly InterfaceCompatibility and OS SupportCustomizable Filtering and AnalysisSteeper Learning Curve for Advanced FeaturesPacket Capture and PlaybackLimited Third-Party Integration:
Microsoft Network Monitor -Trial / Demo
17. Zenoss
Zenoss
Zenoss is a comprehensive network monitoring tool that provides real-time visibility into network performance. It enables organizations to proactively identify and resolve issues across their IT infrastructure.
It offers advanced analytics and machine learning capabilities, allowing users to predict and prevent potential network problems before they impact business operations, ensuring high availability and reliability.
Zenoss supports monitoring protocols and integrates seamlessly with various IT environments, providing unified monitoring for physical, virtual, and cloud-based infrastructure.
The tool features customizable dashboards and detailed reporting, giving users actionable insights into network performance, resource utilization, and capacity planning. This helps optimize network management and efficiency.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Monitoring of business services
Automation and configuration management
Architecture that is scalable and dispersed
The framework that is extensible and modular
User administration and access control
Pros and Cons
ProsConsIntegration with Microsoft EcosystemLimited Development and UpdatesUser-Friendly InterfaceCompatibility and OS SupportUser-Friendly InterfaceSteeper Learning Curve for Advanced FeaturesPacket Capture and PlaybackLimited Third-Party Integration
Zenoss – Trial / Demo
18. ThousandEyes
ThousandEyes
ThousandEyes is a cloud-based network monitoring tool that provides comprehensive visibility into network performance.
It enables businesses to monitor, detect, and diagnose network issues across their entire infrastructure.
The tool offers real-time insights into application delivery, internet performance, and network connectivity, helping organizations quickly identify and resolve issues that could impact user experience and business operations.
ThousandEyes integrates seamlessly with existing network infrastructure and supports many monitoring features, including path visualization, DNS monitoring, and BGP route visualization.
It provides detailed reporting and analytics, allowing businesses to generate custom reports, track key performance metrics, and gain insights into network performance trends and potential bottlenecks.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Benchmarking and comparing performance
Integrations with other tools via API
Storage and analysis of historical data
Collaboration tools for troubleshooting
Monitoring on the go with a mobile app
Pros and Cons
ProsConsGlobal Network VisibilityCostCloud and Internet MonitoringComplexity for Novice UsersEnd-to-End MonitoringLimited On-Premises MonitoringReal-Time Monitoring and AlertsDependency on External Agents
ThousandEyes – Trial / Demo
19. Simple Network Management Protocol
Simple Network Management Protocol
Network monitoring software for the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a potent instrument for monitoring and managing network infrastructure and devices. SNMP can gather valuable data about network availability, performance, and other crucial metrics.
It allows network administrators to keep an eye on and troubleshoot devices, get instant notifications when a network issue arises, and learn more about the general health of the network.
Organizations can use SNMP to optimize performance, prevent downtime, and proactively identify and fix network issues.
This software is a valuable asset for companies of all sizes because it provides the fundamental framework for efficient network management.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Features for security and access control
MIB (Management Information Base) support for SNMP traps for proactive monitoring
Architecture that is extensible and scalable
Network monitoring and troubleshooting that is effective
Pros and Cons
ProsConsStandardizationLimited SecurityVersatilityLack of Real-Time MonitoringLow OverheadScalability ChallengesExtensibilityLimited Protocol Support
Simple Network Management Protocol – Trial / Demo
20. Atera
Atera
Atera network monitoring software is a comprehensive solution designed to assist managed service providers (MSPs) efficiently monitor and manage their clients’ networks.
MSPs can use Atera to gain real-time visibility into network performance, detect issues, and proactively resolve them before they disrupt business operations.
The software enables MSPs to effectively track and manage network health by providing centralized monitoring and alerts for devices, applications, and services.
Atera includes automated ticketing, remote monitoring and management (RMM), and reporting to help MSPs streamline their operations and provide better customer service.
Why Do We Recommend It?
Integration of customer relationship management (CRM) systems and tools
Management on the go using a mobile app
Capabilities for billing and invoicing
Documentation and a knowledge base
Pros and Cons
ProsConsAll-in-One SolutionLimited CustomizationUser-Friendly InterfaceFeature SetSimple Setup and DeploymentLearning CurvePricing ModelLimited Mobile App
Atera – Trial / Demo
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