PRTG Network Monitor

Pros

• Agentless network monitoring for a wide range of systems
• Integrated solution with no need for additional plugins
• Supports common protocols for easy data retrieval
• Inbuilt database for quick setup
• Custom alerts and notifications via various channels
• Flexible licensing options for scalability

Cons

• Custom network map creation has a learning curve
• Free version is limited to 100 sensors
• Sensor-based licensing might not be ideal for large networks

Comprehensive IT Infrastructure Transparency with PRTG Network Monitor

PRTG Network Monitor, developed by Paessler, is a robust agentless network monitoring tool, catering to a broad spectrum of businesses regardless of size. The software offers a centralized platform to monitor all your systems, devices, and applications with precision and depth.

Streamlined Monitoring Without Additional Plugins

PRTG Network Monitor is designed as an integrated monitoring solution, removing the need for extra plugins or downloads. Users are provided with a suite of monitoring capabilities that enable close surveillance of everything from application performance, server utilization, bandwidth consumption, to network stability. The software operates using “sensors” to monitor various aspects of a system or device, including server databases, CPU loads, specific URLs, network traffic, and more, all through an agentless setup.

The ease of use of PRTG Network Monitor is complemented by its support for common protocols such as SNMP, WMI, and SSH, allowing straightforward data retrieval and management across your network devices. Its agentless nature ensures no additional software installation is needed on the devices you are monitoring.

Accessibility and Database Management

Another benefit of PRTG Network Monitor is its accessibility, offering both a mobile and a desktop version. This versatility means you can manage and monitor your network remotely, ensuring constant oversight. Furthermore, PRTG conveniently includes an inbuilt database, facilitating immediate deployment without the need for separate installation of database software. The ability to monitor multiple sites via Remote Probes further enhances the tool's flexibility and reach.

Cost and Customization Potential

PRTG Network Monitor strikes a balance between user-friendliness and deep customization. The software's web and desktop client interfaces are intuitively designed for easy navigation. However, custom network mapping may present a steeper learning curve, but once mastered, it allows users to create detailed, real-time maps with live status information.

The emphasis on alerts and notifications is a pivotal feature, notifying administrators of issues via emails, SMS, or even through productivity tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams. These alerts are highly configurable, allowing for adjustments based on particular working hours or the inclusion of custom messages.

As a proprietary tool, PRTG moves from an unrestricted 30-day trial to a free version that supports up to 100 sensors. This may suffice for small to medium-sized setups, but scaling up requires a commercial license. The software offers various licensing options, ensuring scalability to suit business growth.

Considering the Investment

PRTG Network Monitor is a versatile and robust solution for diverse IT monitoring needs. The software generally presents a minimal learning curve, barring map customization. Its wide range of features caters to both entry-level and expert IT professionals, although the sensor-based pricing model might be a limiting factor compared to device-based pricing in other platforms.

Despite this, PRTG Network Monitor's strong performance and usability make it a commendable choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive monitoring solution. Its capacity to offer a detailed overview of IT infrastructure health remains a significant advantage in its class.

Pros

• Agentless network monitoring for a wide range of systems
• Integrated solution with no need for additional plugins
• Supports common protocols for easy data retrieval
• Inbuilt database for quick setup
• Custom alerts and notifications via various channels
• Flexible licensing options for scalability

Cons

• Custom network map creation has a learning curve
• Free version is limited to 100 sensors
• Sensor-based licensing might not be ideal for large networks