12 Best Infrastructure Monitoring Tools Shortlist
Here are some of the top infrastructure monitoring tools I've evaluated and shortlisted as the very best in 2023:
- Atera - Best for end-to-end IT management
- vSphere - Best for virtualized data center management
- Malwarebytes for Business - Best for comprehensive malware protection
- ConnectWise Automate - Best for remote IT automation
- Logic Monitor - Best for cloud-based IT performance monitoring
- New Relic - Best for application performance monitoring
- NMIS - Best for network management and performance monitoring
- Syncro - Best for combined PSA and RMM functionality
- eG Enterprise - Best for proactive IT monitoring
- Datadog - Best for real-time IT performance tracking
- OpManager Plus - Best for comprehensive IT operations management
- Dynatrace - Best for AI-powered IT operations monitoring
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.
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.
12 Best Infrastructure Monitoring Tools Overviews
1. Atera - Best for end-to-end IT management
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Pricing for Atera starts at $79/user/month. It is worth noting that this is billed annually, and includes the breadth of Atera's IT management toolkit.
Pros:
- All-in-one IT management tool
- Strong integrations with other business platforms
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface
Cons:
- Higher starting price compared to some competitors
- Primarily designed for MSPs, may not be ideal for internal IT teams
- Limited customization options
2. vSphere - Best for virtualized data center management
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 & 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.
Pricing:
vSphere pricing starts from $70/user/month, billed annually. It's important to note this pricing reflects the standard edition, with more advanced features available in higher-priced tiers.
Pros:
- Excellent for managing virtual environments
- High scalability
- Strong integrations with other VMware products
Cons:
- Higher learning curve compared to other tools
- Advanced features require higher-priced plans
- Limited value for businesses not relying on virtual environments
3. Malwarebytes for Business - Best for comprehensive malware protection
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Pricing for Malwarebytes for Business starts at $69.99/user/year, which translates to about $5.83/user/month, billed annually.
Pros:
- Excellent malware detection and removal
- User-friendly interface
- Good compatibility with other antivirus solutions
Cons:
- Limited additional features compared to full-suite security products
- Yearly billing only, no monthly option
- Phone support is not available for all plans
4. ConnectWise Automate - Best for remote IT automation
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Pricing information for ConnectWise Automate is available upon request from the provider.
Pros:
- Efficient automation of IT tasks
- Robust remote monitoring capabilities
- Excellent integration with other ConnectWise products
Cons:
- The learning curve can be steep for new users
- No clear pricing information available online
- Might be overkill for small businesses with simpler IT needs
5. Logic Monitor - Best for cloud-based IT performance monitoring
Logic Monitor is a SaaS-based platform designed to automate IT performance monitoring across networks, servers, applications, and storage. It shines in cloud-based IT performance monitoring, ideal for companies that primarily operate within a cloud infrastructure.
Why I Picked Logic Monitor:
I included Logic Monitor in this list because of its comprehensive monitoring capabilities and automation features, which make IT performance monitoring less demanding. I found its cloud-based focus quite appealing, positioning it as an excellent choice for cloud-centric operations.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Prominent features of Logic Monitor include real-time performance dashboards, automatic device discovery, and anomaly detection. Furthermore, it boasts numerous integrations, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Microsoft Azure, and several networking devices, facilitating a holistic IT monitoring environment.
Pricing:
Pricing for Logic Monitor is not directly available, requiring users to request a quote. Therefore, the pricing is: “Pricing upon request.”
Pros:
- Comprehensive cloud-based IT performance monitoring
- Numerous integrations with major cloud providers
- Effective anomaly detection to identify potential issues early
Cons:
- Lack of upfront pricing information can make budgeting challenging
- The user interface might feel complex for beginners
- Overwhelming features might not suit small businesses with modest needs
6. New Relic - Best for application performance monitoring
New Relic is an industry-leading observability platform known for its application performance monitoring capabilities. This tool is designed to provide in-depth insights into application performance, making it an optimal choice for businesses looking to closely monitor and optimize their apps.
Why I Picked New Relic:
I picked New Relic due to its exceptional application performance monitoring capabilities, enabling businesses to understand their application's behaviour better. Its robust feature set and seamless integration with various environments make it stand out, and its strength in monitoring applications is why I believe it's best for this function.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of New Relic include detailed error analytics, transaction tracing, and application mapping. The tool integrates well with various environments and platforms, such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and many software languages like Java, Python, and .Net, providing a more rounded view of application performance.
Pricing:
Pricing for New Relic starts "from $12/user/month". It offers a Pro plan that starts from $25 per user per month (billed annually).
Pros:
- Excellent application performance monitoring
- Strong integration with multiple platforms
- Detailed error analytics and transaction tracing
Cons:
- The pricing structure may be complex for some
- Can be overwhelming for users without a technical background
- Onboarding and setup might require technical expertise
7. NMIS - Best for network management and performance monitoring
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 & 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.
Pricing:
While NMIS provides a free version, the professional-grade offering, which includes enhanced features and support, starts from "$1,995 per year" (billed annually).
Pros:
- Comprehensive network management features
- Extensive integrations with a variety of environments
- Trend analysis and reporting
Cons:
- The interface might be complex for beginners
- Setup and configuration might be time-consuming
- Advanced features and support are only available in the paid version
8. Syncro - Best for combined PSA and RMM functionality
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Syncro's pricing starts from $99/user/month, offering an all-inclusive, feature-rich MSP platform.
Pros:
- Offers combined PSA and RMM capabilities
- Integrated billing and invoicing system
- Wide range of integrations
Cons:
- High starting price point may be prohibitive for small businesses
- The user interface may feel cluttered due to the number of features
- Onboarding process can be complex for new users
9. eG Enterprise - Best for proactive IT monitoring
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 & 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.
Pricing:
eG Enterprise follows a quote-based pricing model, so specific costs are tailored to individual requirements. Therefore, the exact pricing is available upon request.
Pros:
- Proactive alert system
- Wide range of monitoring features
- Flexibility with integrations via APIs
Cons:
- Pricing not readily available; must request a quote
- Could be complex to set up and configure initially
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations
10. Datadog - Best for real-time IT performance tracking
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Datadog pricing starts from $15/user/month, offering a range of features that justify its value proposition. Please note this price is for their Infrastructure Monitoring tier, with additional modules and features available at extra cost.
Pros:
- Comprehensive monitoring suite
- Real-time updates and alerting
- Wide range of integrations
Cons:
- Some advanced features require additional cost
- The interface can be complex for beginners
- Customizing alerts can be challenging for non-technical users
11. OpManager Plus - Best for comprehensive IT operations management
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Pricing for OpManager Plus starts from $245/month for up to 500 devices. Note that this cost may vary depending on the specific requirements and the scale of your network.
Pros:
- All-in-one solution for IT operations management
- Offers detailed network visibility
- Efficient alerting mechanism
Cons:
- Interface can be complex for first-time users
- Some users report challenges with initial setup
- Cost may be a barrier for small businesses
12. Dynatrace - Best for AI-powered IT operations monitoring
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 & 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.
Pricing:
Dynatrace pricing starts from $21 per host per month (billed annually). The actual cost may vary depending on the scale of your operations and specific needs.
Pros:
- Advanced AI capabilities for proactive monitoring
- Comprehensive view of IT operations
- Integrates well with multiple platforms and services
Cons:
- Pricing can be high for smaller organizations
- May have a steep learning curve for users new to AI tools
- Some users report the need for better customization options
Other Infrastructure Monitoring Tools
Below is a list of additional infrastructure monitoring tools I shortlisted but did not reach the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- WhatsUp Gold - Good for network monitoring and visualization
- PagerDuty - Good for real-time incident management
- Kaseya VSA - Good for unified remote monitoring and management
- Splunk Enterprise - Good for data collection and analysis for IT operations
- NinjaOne - Good for efficient IT management with automation
- PRTG Network Monitor - Good for comprehensive network monitoring
- Pulseway - Good for mobile-first IT management and monitoring
- Site24x7 - Good for cloud-based all-in-one performance monitoring
- PingPlotter - Good for tracking network latency and performance
- OpsGenie - Good for streamlined incident response management
- Germain UX - Good for SAP performance monitoring and optimization
- Pandora FMS - Good for flexible IT infrastructure monitoring
- Domotz - Good for remote network management and 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.