- Comprehensive network monitoring solution with a powerful toolset for IT professionals to monitor and manage network infrastructure efficiently.
- Versatile and user-friendly, featuring flexible alerts, customisable maps, and distributed monitoring to adapt to various network environments.
Introduction to PRTG network monitor
PRTG Network Monitor, developed by Paessler AG, is a widely-used network monitoring tool that helps IT professionals keep track of network performance and health. Launched in 2003, PRTG—short for “Paessler Router Traffic Grapher”—is an agent-less software, meaning it doesn’t require installation on the devices it monitors. Instead, it gathers data through protocols such as SNMP, WMI, packet sniffing, and NetFlow, making it ideal for monitoring a wide range of network devices, including routers, switches, and servers.
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Key features of PRTG network monitor
Alert flexibility: PRTG is equipped with a versatile alerting system that ensures you’re always informed about your network’s status. With built-in features like email notifications, SMS alerts, and the ability to trigger HTTP requests or run custom scripts, PRTG keeps you updated even when you’re on the go. The embedded PRTG API also allows for custom notifications, offering a tailored alert system to suit specific needs.
Multiple interfaces: The software provides multiple ways to access and manage your network, including a web-based AJAX interface, a desktop app for Windows, and mobile apps for iOS and Android. These interfaces allow for comprehensive management, from configuring devices and sensors to monitoring network status, all while providing the flexibility to manage your network from virtually anywhere.
Cluster failover: PRTG’s failover monitoring is a critical feature for maintaining network reliability. Included in every on-premise license, this feature ensures that if the primary server goes down, another node automatically takes over, preventing downtime and maintaining continuous monitoring. Additionally, the software supports monitoring from multiple points, allowing users to compare response times from different network locations like LAN, VPN, and WAN.
Maps and dashboards: PRTG excels in network visualisation, offering real-time maps that not only display devices and connections but also provide detailed status information. The embedded Map Editor lets users create customised network maps using drag-and-drop techniques, which can then be shared via unique URLs, making it easy to collaborate with team members or access maps remotely.
Distributed monitoring: With PRTG, monitoring isn’t limited to a single location. The software supports distributed monitoring across multiple networks and locations, including different segments within an organisation like DMZs or LANs. Remote Probes allow you to distribute the monitoring load and enhance the quality of service (QoS), making it a robust solution for complex network environments.
In-depth reporting: PRTG’s reporting capabilities are another strong point, enabling users to extract valuable data in the form of statistics, graphs, and detailed reports. These reports can be generated on-demand or scheduled regularly, and they can be exported in various formats, including XML, PDF, HTML, and CSV, providing flexibility in how you view and share network data.
PRTG Network Monitor stands out as a comprehensive and user-friendly tool for network management. Its robust feature set, including flexible alerts, multiple interfaces, and advanced failover capabilities, makes it an invaluable tool for IT administrators. While it may require some customisation to fit specific environments, and security considerations should be taken into account, PRTG remains a top choice for organisations aiming to enhance their network monitoring and management processes.
