Top Network Monitoring Tools 2024

When it comes to selecting the best tools for network monitoring in 2024, several options stand out due to their unique features and capabilities.

One of the top contenders is Auvik , recognized as the editor's choice for its SaaS-based network management services. This platform is known for its ease of deployment and a powerful network mapper that streamlines monitoring tasks for both managed service providers (MSPs) and in-house IT teams. Users can manage everything from a centralized location and can initiate a 14-day free trial to explore its features.

Datadog Network Monitoring is another excellent tool, offering a comprehensive visual representation of network components and the traffic flow among them. This cloud-based service excels in device health checks and traffic analysis, also available for a 14-day free trial.

If you’re looking for a no-cost option, Paessler PRTG Network Monitor might be your answer. It employs SNMP, packet sniffing, and WMI to keep an eye on network performance, and a 30-day free trial is accessible for new users.

Domotz offers a versatile SaaS solution that includes various network monitoring functionalities, from SNMP polling to security scanning, and it also provides a 14-day free trial for potential users.

For managed service providers, NinjaOne RMM delivers a cloud-based package that enables efficient management of networks and endpoints. A free trial is available for those interested in testing its capabilities.

ManageEngine OpManager is another robust tool that monitors SNMP devices, switches, servers, and virtualized network services. Users can benefit from a 30-day free trial to assess its performance.

Atera combines all necessary software for managed service providers within a cloud-based environment, including network monitoring features. New users can get started with a free trial.

Checkmk offers a broader system-wide monitoring service, with both free and paid versions available. This tool can operate on Linux or a physical appliance, catering to diverse user needs.

Obkio provides a SaaS solution focused on monitoring network devices and traffic for LANs and internet connections. It's particularly useful for assessing conditions for VoIP and other interactive protocols.

Lastly, Site24x7 Network Monitoring delivers a comprehensive service that covers IT infrastructure, applications, and user behavior monitoring, all from the cloud, making it a solid choice for those looking to enhance their network oversight.

These tools collectively offer a range of features tailored for different monitoring needs, ensuring that organizations can find the right solution for their specific requirements.11. Fortra’s Intermapper (Free Trial)
This intuitive tool begins with an autodiscovery feature that maps your network, followed by continuous performance monitoring.

AdRem NetCrunch (Free Trial)
This comprehensive on-premises solution offers network monitoring as part of its full-stack observability features and is compatible with Windows Server.

ExtraHop Reveal(x)
This service focuses on network security monitoring, identifying threats and unusual activities in real-time. It can be accessed as a SaaS offering or through a network appliance.

Akips
This monitoring system utilizes SNMP polling and NetFlow traffic analysis, operating on FreeBSD within VMware or Hyper-V environments.

SuperOps
This remote monitoring and management (RMM) package encompasses monitoring for networks, servers, software, and cloud services, all hosted in the cloud.

SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor
More than a basic scanner, this tool can pinpoint network security issues stemming from configuration changes and offers automatic resolution for many of these problems.

Zabbix
An open-source solution for network monitoring, Zabbix supports SNMP and IPMP monitoring, featuring an alert system and a variety of community plugins.

Catchpoint Network Experience
Part of a SaaS suite that includes full-stack monitoring tools, this component tracks the performance of web applications.

Nagios Core
Recognized as one of the leading open-source network monitoring tools, Nagios Core provides a dashboard view, an alert system, and community plugins.

Icinga
Another open-source network monitoring option, Icinga features a domain-specific language (DSL) and includes various extensions.

Network monitoring systems can be categorized into two main types: device monitors and traffic monitors. This review emphasizes device monitoring tools, commonly referred to as "network performance monitors."

These systems leverage the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) technology.

The SNMP framework consists of a central unit known as the SNMP manager, paired with a device agent that resides on each network device. Most network devices come with a pre-installed device agent. Operating systems like Windows, Linux, and macOS also include embedded SNMP agents that simply need to be activated. However, the SNMP manager is typically absent in most networks, a gap that network monitoring systems aim to fill.In the realm of network management, SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) plays a pivotal role in monitoring various devices.

Each device’s agent operates continuously, surveying its host and populating a Management Information Base (MIB).

Interestingly, while the agent updates the MIB, it does not take any immediate actions based on its contents.

Instead, the agent remains vigilant, listening for SNMP requests that come in the form of specific packets.

Upon receiving such a request, the agent promptly sends the MIB back to the originating IP address.

The SNMP manager, responsible for collecting this information, broadcasts these requests without targeting a particular device, eliminating the need for prior knowledge of IP addresses.

Once the SNMP manager gathers responses from all device agents, it can identify every device on the network.

This includes essential information such as hardware specifications, operating systems, and connections.

Each interface on networking equipment like routers and switches contains the IP address of its connected device, allowing for the construction of a comprehensive network map based on the MIB data.

Consequently, SNMP facilitates the creation of a hardware inventory, a detailed network topology, and ensures that all devices are functioning optimally.

Significantly, if a device agent detects an issue, it does not wait for a request to report it.

Instead, it logs the problem in the MIB and sends this information as an SNMP trap, which the network monitoring system interprets as an alert.

This proactive feature of SNMP streamlines the monitoring process, allowing technicians to focus their attention only when actual issues arise.

In our comprehensive evaluation of network monitoring tools for 2024, we focused on essential features that enhance network management efficiency.

Key factors influencing our selection include:

• Autodiscovery capabilities to identify and log all devices within the network.

  
  

• Network topology mapping to visualize the connections and structure of your network.

  
  

• Real-time status updates through SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for active device monitoring.

  
  

• Longitudinal performance analysis to track and assess network health over time.

  
  

• Data visualization tools , providing graphical representations such as charts and graphs for easier interpretation.

  
  

• Risk-free trial options , including demos or money-back guarantees, allowing users to evaluate tools without commitment.

  
  

• Affordability , ensuring that the pricing reflects the features and benefits provided.

  
  

Our review encompasses a diverse array of network monitoring solutions, featuring free, commercial, and open-source software compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms.

For those specifically seeking no-cost home networking monitoring options, we have curated a separate list tailored for Windows, Mac, and Linux users.

Platforms tested: Cloud/SaaS solutions.

Auvik stands out as a premier cloud-based network monitoring solution packed with various system management functionalities. Accessible via a web browser, signing up for an account initiates a setup that deploys collectors across your network. This capability allows for the monitoring of numerous sites, centralizing control and making it particularly effective for wide area network (WAN) oversight.

The journey with Auvik starts with a robust network discovery phase. This feature automatically gathers essential information required for effective monitoring. Notably, this discovery process is ongoing, so it seamlessly detects any new devices that join your network.

Highlighted Features:

• Streamlined Setup : Auvik's automated setup significantly eases the initial configuration and deployment, allowing users to get started quickly.

  
  

• Visual Network Mapping : The platform provides impressive network mapping features, enabling users to see the structure and connections within their network easily.

  
  

• Utilization Alerts : The inclusion of alerts for resource utilization helps in identifying potential issues with network resource consumption proactively.

  
  

• Efficient Configuration Management : Users can efficiently handle and oversee the configurations of their network devices.

  
  

Distinctive Aspect

Auvik’s automated network mapping delivers a comprehensive visual representation of the network architecture, showcasing devices, connections, topology, network traffic, and historical configurations. Network administrators appreciate the intuitive color-coded status indicators that enhance management capabilities.

One of the standout aspects of Auvik is its premium plan, which offers both traffic analysis and performance monitoring for network devices. This cloud-based solution enables oversight of multiple locations, providing timely alerts that can prevent potential system failures.

Auvik offers a robust solution for network oversight, particularly ideal for businesses managing multiple locations.

As a cloud-based platform, it facilitates remote monitoring of network systems, including home networks, ensuring seamless connectivity through its servers.

The system operates on a threshold-based monitoring approach, where it continuously tracks various metrics related to network performance. When these metrics exceed predefined thresholds, Auvik promptly alerts your IT team, enabling them to focus on critical issues without constant supervision.

Auvik also supports integration with various third-party tools, enhancing its functionality. Users can select between two service tiers: the Essential plan, which provides basic monitoring, and the Performance plan, which includes advanced features like traffic analysis and syslog management.

Key benefits of Auvik include:

• Multi-site Monitoring : The platform consolidates data from various networks, offering a comprehensive overview of the entire infrastructure across different locations.

  
  

• Remote Accessibility : The web-based console allows for management from any location with internet access, promoting flexibility for IT professionals.

  
  

• Automated Asset Management : Auvik streamlines the inventory processes by automatically maintaining an updated list of network assets, simplifying device management.

  
  

• Limited Package Options : While Auvik provides a solid core offering, the lack of diverse packages may restrict users needing specialized functionalities beyond the standard features.

  
  

Pricing details are not publicly disclosed, but potential users can initiate their experience with a free 14-day trial and request a personalized quote.

Start your Auvik network monitoring journey with a 14-day free trial today!

Tested on : Cloud/SaaS

Network monitoring tools are essential for identifying and managing connectivity issues within an organization.

Datadog's Network Performance Monitoring stands out as a cloud-based SaaS solution , dedicated to analyzing traffic patterns and ensuring optimal network performance.

This service includes a network device monitoring capability , which keeps track of the operational status of various network devices, including routers, switches, and other critical appliances.

Highlighted Features:

• Visual Network Mapping and Protocol Insights : Users can visualize the entire network layout and gain insights into communication protocols in real-time, enhancing troubleshooting efficiency.

  
  

• Dynamic Performance Alerts : The system employs machine learning to set performance thresholds, ensuring that alerts are both intelligent and adaptable to the network's changing conditions.

  
  

• SNMP Data Correlation : Datadog integrates data from SNMP and other sources, offering a holistic view by merging insights from various data streams.

  
  

Unique Selling Proposition :

Datadog boasts seamless integration with hundreds of widely-used services, covering everything from web servers and databases to cloud-based platforms and specific applications like Shopify and WordPress. This feature allows teams to monitor and analyze diverse data sources effortlessly.

With Datadog, you have the flexibility to opt for either device monitoring, traffic monitoring, or both, catering to different monitoring needs.

Being cloud-based, Datadog Network Monitoring can oversee any network globally from a centralized operations center, ensuring comprehensive visibility and management of network health.

Identifying overloaded connections in your network is straightforward with the right tools. A robust network performance monitor integrates monitoring across multiple sites while also accommodating cloud resources. As a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution, it provides the necessary processing power and storage for the data it collects.

In addition to showing real-time statuses, this service includes functionalities for packet capturing and analysis.

For comprehensive network oversight, combining the network performance monitor with a network device monitor is essential. Upon enrollment, the system employs an autodiscovery feature that detects all devices linked to the network. It compiles an IT asset inventory and constructs a network topology map. This autodiscovery is an ongoing process, ensuring that any modifications to your infrastructure are immediately updated in both the inventory and topology map.

The network device monitor uses the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) to retrieve status reports from routers and switches. These reports are analyzed, providing real-time health information for each device. The system also collects critical details such as device make, model, age, and processing power.

Each device is equipped with an SNMP agent, which, when detecting issues, sends out alerts. The Datadog network device monitoring service captures these notifications and presents them in the console as alerts.

Datadog’s alerting system can be customized to trigger alerts if any monitored metric exceeds a predefined threshold. Users can establish their own thresholds to receive alerts for various conditions. This alerting functionality is also available within the network performance monitor, ensuring that potential traffic bottlenecks are promptly highlighted.

For added convenience, users can set up alert forwarding rules to receive notifications via email, SMS, PagerDuty, or Slack. This allows network monitoring systems to autonomously track network performance, ensuring that users are alerted when human intervention is necessary.Network performance monitoring has evolved significantly, offering advanced tools that do more than just track packet flow.

These modern solutions can delve into data traffic within virtual environments and monitor activities across containerized applications . Additionally, they extend their capabilities to cloud platforms, providing insights into the incoming and outgoing data for each of your cloud services.

For organizations with centralized data infrastructures, the Datadog network monitoring service stands out. This platform can be configured remotely, meaning there's no need for on-site visits to monitor network health.

Key features include:

• Automated Asset Management : Datadog utilizes autodiscovery to create and update an inventory of all network assets, ensuring real-time tracking as new devices are integrated or existing ones change.

  
  

• Insight into Traffic Dynamics : The service offers comprehensive monitoring of traffic trends and activities in virtualized settings, enabling better understanding of network efficiency and performance metrics.

  
  

• Remote Access : Being cloud-based, Datadog allows users to access the monitoring system from any location, thereby removing the complexities of managing on-premise infrastructure.

  
  

• Extended Trial Opportunities : Users have expressed interest in a longer trial period, which would provide ample time to navigate the platform's features before committing.

  
  

Within the Datadog platform, both network performance monitoring and network device monitoring modules are available, seamlessly integrating with other monitoring services, such as synthetic monitoring and Datadog APM . A 14-day free trial allows users to explore the full suite of tools available.

Datadog's network performance monitoring can be initiated with a 14-day free trial to test its capabilities.

Tested on: Windows Server

Practical and intuitive, PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler has gained popularity among network administrators for its unique gauge-style visualizations.

This comprehensive network monitoring solution is available for free and employs protocols like SNMP, packet sniffing, and WMI to keep tabs on network performance.

Users can easily scan different network segments, allowing for the effortless addition of devices to monitor. A diverse selection of sensors is available, each dedicated to monitoring specific metrics within the network. These sensors include options for bandwidth, hardware parameters, data usage, SNMP, VoIP, and QoS, among others.

Key Highlights:

• SNMP Monitoring : Collects performance data from devices equipped with SNMP, facilitating effective monitoring of network health.

  
  

• Bandwidth Tracking : Offers tools to analyze and monitor bandwidth consumption across the network, ensuring optimal performance.

  
  

• Device Discovery by IP Segment : Simplifies the identification and integration of devices into the monitoring framework by scanning based on IP segments.

  
  

• Threshold Alerts : Alerts network admins when certain predefined conditions are met, enhancing proactive management of network issues.

  
  

• Custom Network Mapping : Users can create tailored visual maps of their network topology, making it easier to understand and manage their infrastructure.

  
  

• Free Version Availability : PRTG provides a free version, allowing users to access fundamental features without any cost.

  
  

Distinctive Feature:

Among the on-premises options available, PRTG stands out for its efficient website response time monitoring capabilities. The platform includes a specialized web page sensor that measures page load times, which can be operated on-demand or scheduled. Additionally, it offers a ping-based availability monitor for websites, all accessible within the free version of PRTG.

Monitoring the performance and capacity of devices and processes is essential for effective network management.

Paessler PRTG stands out as an exceptionally versatile network monitoring solution. Users can select specific sensors to activate, allowing for a customized monitoring framework tailored to networks, servers, and applications.

One of the standout features is the customizable dashboard which facilitates the creation of real-time network maps . This feature allows users to design maps using a simple drag-and-drop interface, incorporating over 300 available map objects . Additionally, you have the option to develop bespoke map objects using custom HTML code.

With a threshold-based alert system , PRTG ensures that you are promptly notified of any changes in sensor status, value fluctuations, or threshold breaches. Alerts can be sent through various channels, including email, push notifications, SMS, Slack messages, syslog messages, SNMP traps, HTTP actions, and executable programs .

PRTG’s all-encompassing monitoring capabilities make it particularly suitable for larger organizations, while the free tier, limited to 100 sensors, offers an attractive option for small businesses.

Key features include:

• Multi-Protocol Data Collection : PRTG employs a mix of packet sniffing, WMI, and SNMP to gather network performance data, providing a holistic view of the system.

  
  

• Fully Customizable Dashboard : This feature caters to both individual administrators and NOC teams, offering the flexibility to present essential information in various formats.

  
  

• Application-Specific Sensors : PRTG includes pre-built sensors specifically designed for monitoring various applications, including those that track VoIP activity.

  
  

• Learning Curve : The diverse functionalities may present a learning challenge for administrators, requiring time to master all features of the software.

  
  

If you're an enterprise seeking a budget-friendly yet comprehensive network monitoring tool, PRTG Network Monitor is worth considering. The software is available at no cost for setups with fewer than 100 sensors, with paid plans beginning at $1,600 (~£1,335) for 500 sensors and one server installation. PRTG operates on Windows Server , and a 30-day free trial is also available.

To explore PRTG Network Monitor, you can download the 30-day free trial now.

The Dash interface of Domotz effectively organizes various aspects of network topology.

This cloud-based solution specializes in network monitoring, allowing seamless management of multiple networks. It is particularly advantageous for managed service providers thanks to its multi-tenant functionality.

Users can conveniently access the system via a user-friendly cloud console compatible with any web browser. To initiate monitoring, an agent must be installed on a host device connected to the network. Additionally, the service includes tools for network and endpoint management, along with automation features for workloads.

Highlighted Features:

• Automatic Device Discovery : Simplifies the addition and identification of network devices.

  
  

• Visual Network Mapping : Offers graphical representations of the network layout.

  
  

• IT Asset Management : Facilitates tracking of devices within the network, ensuring efficient oversight.

  
  

• Performance Monitoring : Gathers data from SNMP-enabled devices for performance evaluation.

  
  

Distinctive Aspect

Domotz places a strong focus on remote access capabilities. Users can securely connect to their network devices from anywhere globally, which aids in remote troubleshooting and adjustments. This is particularly useful for managed service providers and organizations with multiple sites.

Identifying network stress points and assets has become straightforward with modern tools.

One such solution is a cloud-based platform that allows users to access it via any standard web browser, capable of simultaneously monitoring multiple locations. Upon gaining access to a site, the autodiscovery feature automatically generates and updates an inventory and network map.

The tool offers an extensive array of features, primarily focused on network monitoring through protocols like SNMP. Users can easily set up SNMP sensors and alerts, tailoring specific conditions for notifications.

By utilizing SNMP reports, the system can maintain a detailed asset inventory and create a comprehensive network map. These updates occur with every response cycle from the SNMP agents. Each node in the map and the inventory includes crucial information such as device make, model, and capacity.

Additionally, the package features a switch port mapper, and its management tools facilitate remote access and configuration of various network devices. IoT services can also be controlled remotely, with the ability to cover different network platforms, accessing wireless networks through numerous integrations and customizable monitoring drivers.

This solution comes with a multi-tenancy option, making it ideal for managed service providers. Internal operations teams can leverage this system for monitoring networks across multiple sites.

Key features include:

• Collaboration-Friendly User Accounts : The platform allows multiple user accounts per client, enhancing collaboration and providing user-specific access to monitoring data.

  
  

• Centralized Site Monitoring : It enables a consolidated view of network performance across various locations, merging the monitoring processes for efficiency.

  
  

• Enhanced Security Through Encryption : The platform employs encryption to secure communications between itself and the network, ensuring data safety.

  
  

• Limitations on macOS Monitoring : Notably, there’s no dedicated endpoint agent for macOS, which may impact monitoring capabilities for devices running this OS compared to others.

  
  

Two pricing options are available for users of this platform: a device plan costing up to $1.50 per month per device, and a location plan priced at $35 or less per month for each location. A 14-day free trial is also available, allowing users to test the services.

This platform has been evaluated in a cloud/SaaS environment.

Network issues are easily identifiable thanks to a color-coded system.

NinjaOne RMM delivers remote management and monitoring capabilities via a cloud-based platform .

Accessing this system is straightforward, as it can be utilized from any standard web browser, eliminating the need for specialized hardware or servers to manage various remote networks.

Highlighted Features:

• Autodiscovery : The autodiscovery feature streamlines the addition and identification of devices within the network.

  
  

• Device Status Monitoring : Gain real-time insights into the performance and health of your network devices with NinjaOne's monitoring tools.

  
  

• Traffic Analysis : Users can assess network traffic patterns and throughput with the integrated traffic analysis capabilities.

  
  

Distinct Aspect

The RMM is designed as a multi-tenant solution tailored for managed service providers (MSPs). Each MSP can create individual sub-accounts for different clients, ensuring that the data pertaining to each client's services remains distinct. Furthermore, clients can have multiple sites integrated into the monitoring service.

You can delve into the specifics of a device’s IP address and file structure.

NinjaOne RMM enhances the efficiency of IT support staff. With built-in alerts, there’s no need for constant monitoring of each remote site since the IT team receives notifications when issues arise. The system evaluates the availability of network devices and monitors traffic throughput.

When a managed service provider (MSP) acquires a new client, a technician must install a NinjaOne agent on a system linked to the remote network. This agent requests network service status updates and relays collected data to the NinjaOne server.

The reports generated from these devices provide insights into the network's equipment. In our tests, NinjaOne RMM created a hardware inventory from this data, which included real-time device activity displayed on the dashboard. Users can customize the dashboard to focus on the metrics they find most relevant, as the reports often contain more information than what can be shown at once.

Performance thresholds can be established for each statistic; alerts are triggered when these thresholds are exceeded. The RMM also gathers traffic data using protocols like NetFlow , J-Flow , sFlow , and IPFIX , which can similarly have alert thresholds.

Though primarily designed for managed service providers, NinjaOne RMM is also suitable for IT departments seeking to monitor their internal networks. The tool allows for the simultaneous observation of various sites and includes endpoint management features, such as a patch manager.

• Centralized Monitoring Across Multiple Locations : NinjaOne RMM facilitates the oversight of numerous sites simultaneously, offering a unified view of network performance across various areas.

  
  

• Sub-Accounts for Client Data Management : The platform allows for the use of sub-accounts, ensuring that data can be segmented for each client.

  
  

• Insights into Traffic Flow : The throughput analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of data flow patterns within the network.

  
  

• Customized Pricing Structure : While the absence of a public price list means tailored quotes are necessary, some users may find this lack of transparency less appealing.

  
  

Network Monitoring Solutions Overview

NinjaOne has been recognized by G2 for 11 consecutive times, securing its position as a leader in remote monitoring and management (RMM), patch management, and endpoint management.

Tailored quotes are available for NinjaOne, allowing you to select a plan that meets your specific requirements.

Begin your experience with a complimentary 14-day trial to explore its features.

Compatibility tested on: Linux and Azure.

ManageEngine OpManager offers a highly customizable dashboard tailored to your specific monitoring needs.

This network monitoring tool excels in real-time performance tracking of various network components, including servers, routers, switches, and virtual machines.

With over 200 widgets available, users can craft a personalized monitoring experience that highlights areas of interest.

Highlighted Features:

• Automatic Discovery: OpManager simplifies the process of detecting and integrating new devices into your network through its automatic discovery function.

  
  

• Network Mapping: Users can visualize their entire network structure and interconnections with the network mapping tool.

  
  

• SNMP Monitoring: The software supports SNMP monitoring, facilitating the collection of performance metrics from SNMP-compatible devices.

  
  

Distinctive Aspect:

What sets OpManager apart from other on-premises network monitoring solutions is its capability to monitor not just network hardware but also servers.

Its robust server monitoring functionality captures critical resource metrics, including CPU usage, memory statistics, and disk capacity and utilization, ensuring comprehensive oversight of your IT infrastructure.