Guide To The 26 Best Infrastructure Monitoring Tools Of 2024
10 Best Infrastructure Monitoring Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 26 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
As a fellow IT professional, I understand how vital it is to have an IT infrastructure monitoring software solution. Whether it's open-source tools like Zabbix, known for its customizable thresholds and alerts for CPU utilization and more, or SolarWinds, with its plethora of add-ons and plugins, having a powerful tool can be a game-changer. These platforms not only help to proactively identify outages and performance issues but also provide insights to prevent them, thus ensuring optimal uptime for your infrastructure.
From on-premises to cloud monitoring, these tools cover various operating systems and virtual machines. Features like SMS alerts for faster response times, templates for easy upgrades, and dependency management make these solutions the reliable allies you need in managing your IT infrastructure. So, if you're looking for a way to take your infrastructure management to the next level, these are options worth considering.
What Is An Infrastructure Monitoring Tool?
Infrastructure monitoring tools serve as the digital eyes and ears for businesses, providing a real-time snapshot of how their IT ecosystem is performing. These tools are primarily used by IT professionals and network administrators, allowing them to track and measure key indicators such as server load, network latency, or application performance across their systems.
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The goal is to ensure optimal operation of IT infrastructure, detect and respond to issues before they escalate, and ultimately support the smooth running of business operations. These tools play a vital role in a wide range of industries, from tech companies to financial services, healthcare, and more, as virtually all modern businesses rely on sound IT infrastructure to function and thrive.
Best Infrastructure Monitoring Tools Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Atera | From $79/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Dynatrace | From $21/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Datadog | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| eG Enterprise | Pricing upon request | Website |
| ConnectWise Automate | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Syncro | From $99/user/month | Website |
| Malwarebytes for Business | From $5.83/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| OpManager Plus | Pricing upon request | Website |
| NMIS | From $1,995/year (billed annually) | Website |
| vSphere | From $70/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Infrastructure Monitoring Tools Reviews
Atera's software is a comprehensive platform that supports all-in-one IT management. With its robust features, it excels at providing an end-to-end solution, addressing IT needs from help desk to patch management, remote access, and more. This capability justifies its position as the best choice for businesses looking for a holistic approach to IT management.
Why I Picked Atera:
Among the multitude of infrastructure monitoring solution tools I evaluated, Atera distinguished itself with its all-encompassing functionality. Its strength lies in the comprehensive nature of its tools, enabling the management of every aspect of IT under one roof. This breadth and depth of features make Atera best suited for businesses requiring an end-to-end IT management solution.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Atera shines with its intuitive remote IT management, automated patch management, and real-time alerts and notifications. Its robust help desk and ticketing system is another significant advantage, streamlining issue tracking and resolution. On the integration front, Atera harmonizes well with tools such as Quickbooks, Xero, Splashtop, and TeamViewer, making it compatible with an array of business processes.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface
- Strong integrations with other business platforms
- All-in-one IT management tool
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Primarily designed for MSPs, may not be ideal for internal IT teams
- Higher starting price compared to some competitors
Dynatrace is a high-powered, AI-driven IT operations monitoring tool that provides users with real-time insights into their network, application, and infrastructure performance. Its ability to leverage artificial intelligence for identifying and resolving issues makes it ideal for businesses aiming for proactive and intelligent IT operations management.
Why I Picked Dynatrace:
I selected Dynatrace due to its advanced use of artificial intelligence for IT operations. Its AI capabilities offer an edge in predictive analysis and proactive problem resolution, which differentiate it from traditional monitoring tools. It excels in providing AI-powered IT operations monitoring by automating anomaly detection and delivering root-cause analysis, which helps to identify and fix issues before they impact end-users.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Dynatrace's most noteworthy features include AI-assisted problem identification, real-time infrastructure monitoring, application performance tracking, and digital experience monitoring. The tool can integrate with a range of third-party applications, including but not limited to AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Docker, Kubernetes, and ServiceNow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates well with multiple platforms and services
- Comprehensive view of IT operations
- Advanced AI capabilities for proactive monitoring
Cons:
- Some users report the need for better customization options
- May have a steep learning curve for users new to AI tools
- Pricing can be high for smaller organizations
Datadog is a powerful cloud-based IT monitoring service that tracks performance across your applications, network, and infrastructure in real time. Its all-inclusive suite of services is best suited for businesses seeking to stay abreast of their IT performance metrics in real time.
Why I Picked Datadog:
I selected Datadog for this list based on its comprehensive, real-time monitoring capabilities. It offers a single platform to track metrics from disparate sources, which makes it unique. In line with its suitability for real-time tracking, Datadog offers live updates, making it the ideal choice for those requiring instant insights into IT performance.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Datadog provides an extensive range of features such as infrastructure monitoring, application performance monitoring, log management, and user experience tracking. The tool's real-time dashboards and automated alerts are particularly impressive. Regarding integrations, Datadog works seamlessly with a broad range of systems, including AWS, Docker, Slack, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations
- Real-time updates and alerting
- Comprehensive monitoring suite
Cons:
- Customizing alerts can be challenging for non-technical users
- The interface can be complex for beginners
- Some advanced features require additional cost
eG Enterprise is a fully converged application and infrastructure performance monitoring solution. It's designed to help IT teams identify, diagnose, and resolve issues before they impact service quality, making it ideal for proactive IT monitoring.
Why I Picked eG Enterprise:
The reason I chose eG Enterprise for this list is its robust and intuitive platform, with a keen focus on proactively pinpointing potential IT issues. Its standout feature is its proactive alert system, which sets it apart from competitors. The tool's proactive nature aligns it perfectly with use cases that require forethought and early identification of issues.
Standout Features and Integrations:
eG Enterprise excels with features like application performance monitoring, IT service monitoring, and virtualization monitoring. It also has an advanced alerting system that notifies you of potential issues before they become significant problems. As for integrations, eG Enterprise is compatible with popular platforms such as Windows, Linux, and VMware, and offers APIs for further integration possibilities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexibility with integrations via APIs
- Wide range of monitoring features
- Proactive alert system
Cons:
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations
- Could be complex to set up and configure initially
- Pricing not readily available; must request a quote
ConnectWise Automate is an IT management tool designed to automate repetitive tasks and reduce service delivery time. It thrives at remote automation, making it an ideal choice for businesses aiming to streamline their IT operations.
Why I Picked ConnectWise Automate:
I selected ConnectWise Automate due to its sophisticated automation capabilities. Its ability to automate routine tasks and manage multiple endpoints remotely distinguishes it from the pack. ConnectWise Automate stands as the best for businesses looking to boost their efficiency by automating a majority of their IT operations.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Key features of ConnectWise Automate include automated IT support, remote monitoring, and patch management. It also features proactive alerting for potential issues before they escalate into more severe problems. In terms of integrations, ConnectWise Automate plays nicely with other ConnectWise products, such as ConnectWise Manage, and popular CRM tools like Salesforce and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Excellent integration with other ConnectWise products
- Robust remote monitoring capabilities
- Efficient automation of IT tasks
Cons:
- Might be overkill for small businesses with simpler IT needs
- No clear pricing information available online
- The learning curve can be steep for new users
Syncro is an MSP platform that brings together Professional Services Automation (PSA) and Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) in one place. By converging these capabilities, Syncro provides an all-in-one solution for managed service providers (MSPs) that simplifies task management, making it the go-to tool for combined PSA and RMM functionality.
Why I Picked Syncro:
Syncro caught my attention for its innovative approach to combining two critical functionalities – PSA and RMM – within one tool. This unique offering stands out among its competitors and affords a level of convenience not commonly found in the market. Given its dual functionality, I determined Syncro to be the top choice for combined PSA and RMM capabilities.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Syncro excels with its built-in help desk and ticketing system, integrated billing and invoicing, and automated scripting. Its RMM functionalities include remote access, automated patch management, and alerts. On the integration front, Syncro provides compatibility with popular platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, Bitdefender, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations
- Integrated billing and invoicing system
- Offers combined PSA and RMM capabilities
Cons:
- Onboarding process can be complex for new users
- The user interface may feel cluttered due to the number of features
- High starting price point may be prohibitive for small businesses
Malwarebytes for Business is a security tool that excels in providing robust malware protection for organizations. Its adeptness at detecting and mitigating malware threats is why it is the top choice for businesses requiring comprehensive malware protection.
Why I Picked Malwarebytes for Business:
I chose Malwarebytes for its impeccable track record in combating malware threats. Its robust scanning engine and cloud-based threat detection make it a stand-out choice. I believe Malwarebytes is best for businesses seeking a comprehensive solution to guard against the myriad of malware threats present in today's digital landscape.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Malwarebytes is known for its advanced heuristics, real-time threat blocking, and layered approach to security. Its cloud-based console makes remote management of security a breeze. As for integrations, Malwarebytes offers seamless connectivity with Windows Defender and other antivirus solutions to ensure no gaps in your security coverage.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good compatibility with other antivirus solutions
- User-friendly interface
- Excellent malware detection and removal
Cons:
- Phone support is not available for all plans
- Yearly billing only, no monthly option
- Limited additional features compared to full-suite security products
OpManager Plus is a highly robust network management solution by ManageEngine that provides in-depth visibility into your network and server performance. Given its comprehensive toolset for managing, controlling, removing bottlenecks, and troubleshooting IT operations, it is best suited for organizations seeking an all-inclusive management solution.
Why I Picked OpManager Plus:
I picked OpManager Plus for this list due to its wide-ranging set of tools, which provide a comprehensive understanding of network performance. What sets it apart is its unified approach to IT operations management, covering network, server, bandwidth, configuration, and fault management all under one roof. The tool's breadth makes it an excellent choice for comprehensive IT operations management.
Standout Features and Integrations:
OpManager Plus shines with its features, such as automated network mapping, comprehensive dashboards, intelligent alerting, and advanced fault management. Its bandwidth analysis and capacity planning tools are worth noting. Regarding integrations, OpManager Plus can integrate with other ManageEngine products and supports SNMP, WMI, CLI protocols, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient alerting mechanism
- Offers detailed network visibility
- All-in-one solution for IT operations management
Cons:
- Cost may be a barrier for small businesses
- Some users report challenges with initial setup
- Interface can be complex for first-time users
NMIS (Network Management Information System) by Opmantek is a versatile tool that provides robust network management and performance monitoring. It is built to streamline network operations, from the identification of network issues to detailed performance reporting, making it an ideal choice for comprehensive network oversight.
Why I Picked NMIS:
In selecting NMIS, I was drawn to its extensive capabilities in the realm of network management and performance monitoring. It possesses a solid reputation in the industry for its high configurability and broad set of features. Its ability to handle network management tasks efficiently and provide performance insights is why I consider it the best for these purposes.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Noteworthy features of NMIS include fault detection, performance management, trend analysis, and extensive reporting. The tool offers an impressive range of integrations, including but not limited to integrations with cloud services, virtual environments, and various network devices, furthering its capabilities in comprehensive network management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Trend analysis and reporting
- Extensive integrations with a variety of environments
- Comprehensive network management features
Cons:
- Advanced features and support are only available in the paid version
- Setup and configuration might be time-consuming
- The interface might be complex for beginners
vSphere is a leading platform designed to manage virtualized data centers efficiently. Its ability to streamline, manage, and secure applications in a common operating environment is why I chose it as the best tool for virtualized data center management.
Why I Picked vSphere:
I selected vSphere for its extensive capabilities in managing virtualized environments. It stood out from the crowd because of its strong virtualization features, scalability, and the trust it has earned in the industry over the years. It’s excellent handling of data center virtualization tasks makes it the best choice for businesses relying heavily on virtual environments.
Standout Features and Integrations:
vSphere boasts features like dynamic resource distribution, automated load balancing, and fault tolerance, all contributing to an efficient virtual environment. Its native security features, like secure boot and virtual TPM, enhance system safety. For integrations, vSphere collaborates smoothly with other VMware products and third-party solutions, from backup tools to cloud services, enhancing its value in a diverse ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integrations with other VMware products
- High scalability
- Excellent for managing virtual environments
Cons:
- Limited value for businesses not relying on virtual environments
- Advanced features require higher-priced plans
- Higher learning curve compared to other tools
Other Infrastructure Monitoring Tools
Below is a list of additional infrastructure monitoring tools I shortlisted but did not reach the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Logic Monitor
Best for cloud-based IT performance monitoring
- New Relic
Best for application performance monitoring
- Pulseway
Good for mobile-first IT management and monitoring
- PagerDuty
Good for real-time incident management
- NinjaOne
Good for efficient IT management with automation
- WhatsUp Gold
Good for network monitoring and visualization
- Opsgenie
Good for streamlined incident response management
- Germain UX
Good for SAP performance monitoring and optimization
- Splunk Enterprise
Good for data collection and analysis for IT operations
- Site24x7
Good for cloud-based all-in-one performance monitoring
- PingPlotter
Good for tracking network latency and performance
- PRTG Network Monitor
Good for comprehensive network monitoring
- Kaseya VSA
Good for unified remote monitoring and management
- Domotz
Good for remote network management and monitoring
- Pandora FMS
Good for flexible IT infrastructure monitoring
- Naverisk
Good for all-in-one IT service management and RMM platform
Selection Criteria For Infrastructure Monitoring Tools
In my extensive experience dealing with IT operations management and monitoring tools, I've personally tried and tested a broad range of these software solutions. Evaluating more than 30 tools, I was specifically looking for efficiency, scalability, AI integration, and comprehensive IT operations management.
These are some of the essential criteria I considered while selecting the best ones:
Core Functionality
The tool should enable you to:
- Monitor and manage the IT infrastructure, including servers, network devices, applications, and services
- Provide real-time insights into the performance of IT resources
- Automate IT operations tasks and workflows
- Alert on anomalies and potential issues in real-time
- Support capacity planning and trend analysis
Key Features
I specifically looked for the following features:
- Integration with AI: Tools that leverage AI to predict issues and provide actionable insights
- Comprehensive Dashboard: Offers a unified view of all IT operations data
- Automated Alerts: Can send automated alerts to the appropriate team when issues arise
- Scalability: Able to scale up or down based on the organization's needs
- Security and Compliance: Ensures secure data handling and helps comply with relevant regulations
Usability
The tool should have:
- Intuitive Interface: For this type of software, a clean, well-organized interface is important for monitoring complex IT environments.
- Easy Setup and Configuration: Should offer streamlined setup and easy customization of alerts, dashboards, and reports.
- Robust Customer Support: Having responsive and knowledgeable customer support is crucial for quick resolution of issues.
- Training and Documentation: Comprehensive training materials and detailed documentation can significantly improve onboarding and tool utilization.
People Also Ask
What are the benefits of using infrastructure monitoring tools?
Infrastructure monitoring tools come with several benefits:
- Proactive Issue Resolution: These tools help identify issues in the IT infrastructure before they escalate, enabling proactive issue resolution and reducing downtime.
- Increased Efficiency: By automating routine tasks, infrastructure monitoring tools boost operational efficiency and free up IT staff to focus on strategic initiatives.
- Cost Savings: Through predictive analysis and capacity planning, these tools can reduce wastage and help optimize IT expenditure.
- Improved Security: Infrastructure monitoring tools provide insights into security vulnerabilities and help mitigate risks by ensuring adherence to compliance standards.
- Enhanced Decision-making: By providing real-time, comprehensive insights into IT operations, these tools support informed decision-making and strategic planning.
How much do infrastructure monitoring tools cost?
The pricing of infrastructure monitoring tools can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your IT environment, the number of devices or endpoints monitored, and the specific features required. Some tools charge per user, while others price based on the number of monitored devices or the volume of data processed.
What are the typical pricing models for these tools?
Most infrastructure monitoring tools follow one of three pricing models:
- Per User: Pricing is based on the number of users.
- Per Device: Pricing depends on the number of devices or endpoints being monitored.
- Data Volume: Some tools price based on the volume of data being processed or monitored.
What is the typical range of pricing for infrastructure monitoring tools?
The pricing for infrastructure monitoring tools can start from around $20 per month for basic, entry-level solutions and can go up to several thousand dollars per month for comprehensive, enterprise-level solutions.
What are the cheapest and most expensive infrastructure monitoring tools?
On the lower end of the spectrum, tools like PRTG Network Monitor offer plans starting at $1600 for a one-time purchase, while enterprise-level solutions like Splunk Enterprise can cost several thousand dollars per month.
Are there any free infrastructure monitoring tools?
Yes, there are a few free options available. Some tools like PRTG Network Monitor offer a free version with limited functionalities, which is great for small businesses or for trial purposes. However, for larger IT environments and advanced features, a paid version is usually required.
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Summary
In wrapping up, the selection of an ideal infrastructure monitoring tool involves a keen understanding of the requirements and challenges unique to your IT environment. Considering the diverse options available in the market, aligning a tool's features and capabilities with your specific needs is essential for the successful management of your IT infrastructure.
Key takeaways:
- Identify Your Needs: Before you start evaluating tools, have a clear understanding of your needs. Identify the core functionalities and key features that are critical for your operations. This could include network monitoring, server monitoring, real-time alerting, reporting capabilities, or others based on your IT environment.
- Consider Usability: A tool's efficacy is highly dependent on its usability. Look for user-friendly interfaces, easy onboarding, and accessible customer support. These factors will significantly influence the tool's adoption rate and, subsequently, its effectiveness.
- Pricing Structures: Understand the pricing structures of different tools. Some charge per user, others per device, and some are based on data volume. Make sure to choose a tool whose pricing aligns with your usage patterns and budget constraints. Remember, the most expensive tool is not necessarily the best one for your specific needs.
What Do You Think?
The journey to finding the right infrastructure monitoring tool may seem daunting, but with clear criteria and knowledge about what each tool brings to the table, it becomes much easier. The tools mentioned in this guide are among the top in the industry, but technology is always evolving, and new solutions continue to emerge.
Your experience and feedback are valuable to me and to all the readers who are also in search of the perfect tool. If there are any tools that you feel I might have overlooked or you'd like to share your personal experiences with any of these tools, please feel free to comment.