Best Server Monitoring Software for 2024
10 Best Server Monitoring Softwares Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Modern IT landscapes are complex, with a mix of cloud-based services, virtual machines, and on-premise hardware. Keeping everything running smoothly requires constant vigilance.
That's where IT infrastructure software comes in, specifically server monitoring solutions. These solutions scrutinize everything from CPU usage in Windows and Linux operating systems to the intricate data exchanges between network devices. Whether you're harnessing a cloud-based SaaS or diving into full-stack infrastructure monitoring tools, these solutions offer real-time insights into network traffic, web server health, and even metrics from virtual servers.
As virtualization grows and the demand to optimize various facets like disk space and templates intensifies, these tools are indispensable for anyone seeking a clear, data-driven view of their network's performance. Embrace the zenith of technology with our curated collection of the best server monitoring software.
What is Server Monitoring Software?
Server monitoring software is a specialized toolset designed to oversee and track the health, performance, and activity of servers. System administrators, IT professionals, and even business owners utilize these tools to gain insights into server functionality, ensuring they operate at peak IT efficiency.
By doing so, they can detect and address potential issues before they escalate, maintain optimal system performance, and guarantee the delivery of digital services and applications to end users.
Overviews Of The 10 Best Server Monitoring Software
Checkmk is a comprehensive IT monitoring solution designed to help businesses track and manage their server performance and infrastructure. It provides robust monitoring capabilities across hybrid IT environments, supporting both on-premises and cloud servers.
Why I Picked Checkmk: One of the standout features of Checkmk as a server monitoring tool is its ability to handle large-scale environments with ease, monitoring thousands of servers simultaneously without performance degradation. The software offers detailed metrics on server health, load times, and resource utilization, all of which are critical for proactive server management. Its customizable dashboards and real-time alerts also ensure that teams are notified immediately about any potential server issues.
Standout features & integrations:
Beyond its core monitoring capabilities, Checkmk offers centralized asset management, enabling automated discovery and management of hardware and software asset information across all monitored servers. When integrated with your Configuration Management Database (CMDB), it ensures you always have an up-to-date view of your IT landscape. Additional integrations include popular tools like Prometheus, DataDog, ntopng, Grafana, Jira, and ServiceNow. Checkmk’s APIs also allow integration with nearly any system or automation tool.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- REST API for integration with third-party tools
- Customizable dashboards
- Scalable monitoring
Cons:
- Potential learning curve for beginners
- Complex setup
PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler is a comprehensive network and server monitoring solution designed for IT professionals and network administrators. It provides real-time insights into network performance, ensuring servers, applications, and devices are functioning optimally.
Why I Picked PRTG: I like that PRTG offers robust monitoring capabilities, including real-time data collection, alerting, and reporting. The software’s customizable maps, dashboards, and reports allow users to visualize server performance in a way that meets their specific needs. Additionally, PRTG's flexible alert system ensures that IT teams are promptly notified of any server issues
Standout features & integrations:
Some of PRTG's most commendable features include its auto-discovery function, the ability to create custom sensors, and comprehensive reporting capabilities. For integrations, PRTG supports API integrations, allowing for a connection with other platforms and tools, and enhancing its utility.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly visual interface
- Customizable monitoring and alerting
- Scalable for a wide range of network sizes
Cons:
- More advanced features may come with a learning curve
- High costs for larger deployments
New Relic stands as a top-tier application performance monitoring platform dedicated to offering insights into application performance in real time. This tool is specifically tailored for businesses aiming to obtain instantaneous application analytics, ensuring timely and informed decisions.
Why I Picked New Relic: When determining the best tools for application analytics, New Relic consistently caught my attention. The differentiation for New Relic is its emphasis on real-time analytics, a key aspect that's pivotal for many organizations. I judged it best for those requiring on-the-spot insights into their application performance.
Standout features & integrations:
Key features of New Relic include end-to-end transaction tracing, detailed error analytics, and browser application monitoring. On the integration front, New Relic supports AWS, Azure, and GCP, along with tools such as Slack and Jenkins to bolster its analytics ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad cloud platform support
- Real-time analytics capability
- In-depth application monitoring
Cons:
- Pricing can be steep with added modules
- Custom instrumentation requires effort
- Might be overwhelming for newcomers
NinjaOne is a top-rated UEM and IT management software that offers a range of solutions for IT departments and MSPs, including endpoint management, patch management, mobile device management, remote control, and endpoint backup.
Why I Picked NinjaOne: NinjaOne stands out due to its comprehensive ability to monitor and manage the entire IT portfolio, its high ratings in multiple IT categories, and its one-click control for remote support. The software automates IT management for MSPs, offers multi-tenant, cloud-first backup for endpoint security, and provides extensive resources and tools for business growth.
Standout features & integrations:
NinjaOne offers a range of features for IT departments and MSPs, including endpoint management, patch management, mobile device management, remote control, and endpoint backup. It also provides resources such as an ROI calculator and IT security fundamentals guide, making it a comprehensive and useful tool for managing and securing IT infrastructure.
Key integrations for NinjaOne include Professional Services Automation (PSA) systems like ConnectWise Manage, Autotask PSA, HaloPSA, Accelo, SherpaDesk, RepairShopr, Harmony PSA, and Computicate PSA.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated endpoint discovery
- Flexible reporting with custom metrics
- Comprehensive API documentation
Cons:
- Complexity in setting up alerts for non-standard events
- Occasional delays in patch deployment
Dynatrace is an application performance monitoring solution that leverages artificial intelligence to provide insights. With AI at its core, it offers precise and actionable data, ensuring optimal application performance.
Why I Picked Dynatrace: In my quest for the best AI-driven monitoring tool, Dynatrace was a clear winner. Its emphasis on AI-powered solutions ensures issues are not only detected but also understood in context. This makes Dynatrace the top pick for those seeking AI-driven insights for application performance.
Standout features & integrations:
Notable features of Dynatrace include real user monitoring, synthetic monitoring, and AI-driven root cause analysis. As for integrations, Dynatrace is compatible with a host of platforms like AWS, Azure, and Kubernetes, ensuring a unified monitoring approach.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- A wide array of integrations
- Comprehensive application monitoring
- Deep AI-driven insights
Cons:
- The setup might be challenging for novices
- Complexity requires dedicated training
- Pricing can be steep for large teams
LogicMonitor serves as a comprehensive platform for monitoring both on-premises and cloud infrastructure. It is particularly beneficial for enterprises that leverage a hybrid approach in their IT setup, requiring a unified monitoring view.
Why I Picked LogicMonitor: My decision to choose LogicMonitor revolved around its proficiency in hybrid infrastructure monitoring. What differentiates LogicMonitor is its integration of on-premises and cloud monitoring under one umbrella. Based on my assessment, it's the go-to tool for businesses employing a hybrid IT infrastructure.
Standout features & integrations:
Key offerings of LogicMonitor include automated device discovery, performance forecasting, and customizable dashboards. For integrations, LogicMonitor comfortably meshes with services like AWS, Azure, Slack, and ServiceNow, providing a connected monitoring experience.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface
- Automated device discovery
- Comprehensive hybrid infrastructure coverage
Cons:
- Requires training to exploit advanced features
- The initial setup might be complex
- Steeper pricing for smaller organizations
Nagios is renowned for its in-depth server and network monitoring capabilities. It provides system administrators with a clear window into their IT infrastructure, from networks to hardware, enabling proactive management and issue detection.
Why I Picked Nagios: When it came to selecting a monitoring tool with an expansive feature set, Nagios consistently emerged at the forefront of my evaluations. I was drawn to its longstanding reputation and its holistic approach to infrastructure oversight. Given its prowess in monitoring a broad range of IT components, it's clear to me why Nagios stands out as best for comprehensive IT infrastructure monitoring.
Standout features & integrations:
Nagios offers a robust set of monitoring features, including performance graphs, multi-tenant capabilities, and escalation notifications. Its customizable dashboards ensure relevant data visualization based on user needs.
On the integration front, Nagios provides connections with popular tools such as Slack, JIRA, and Grafana, enhancing its collaborative and alerting capacities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong third-party integrations
- Customizable dashboards
- Wide-ranging monitoring capabilities
Cons:
- The interface can appear dated compared to newer platforms
- The annual licensing model may not suit all businesses
- The steeper learning curve for beginners
AppDynamics emerges as a premier solution in tracking business transactions from start to finish. Its prowess in end-to-end business monitoring ensures businesses can trace transactions throughout their lifecycle, enabling informed decision-making.
Why I Picked AppDynamics: I opted for AppDynamics after noticing its distinct capability in thorough business transaction tracking. It stands out by offering a clear view of transactions across multiple touchpoints. From my comparisons, AppDynamics excels for companies aiming for a comprehensive transaction tracking system.
Standout features & integrations:
AppDynamics boasts features like deep code-level diagnostics, dynamic baselining, and real-time analytics. As for integrations, it aligns well with platforms such as AWS, Azure, and various databases, reinforcing its monitoring capabilities.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide-ranging integration support
- Real-time performance metrics
- Detailed business transaction insights
Cons:
- Can be resource-intensive on monitored systems
- Might be over-comprehensive for small setups
- Higher pricing tier
Datadog is a cloud-centric monitoring and analytics platform. Given its deep integration with cloud services, it excels in monitoring large-scale cloud infrastructures, making sense of vast amounts of data effortlessly.
Why I Picked Datadog: Selecting a tool optimized for cloud environments led me straight to Datadog. With its robust capabilities tailored for cloud infrastructures, it was an easy choice. Datadog stands out as best for businesses scaling or operating predominantly in the cloud.
Standout features & integrations:
Datadog impresses with features like real-time performance dashboards, distributed tracing, and log management. Its integrations span numerous cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, and Azure, as well as tools like Slack and PagerDuty for effective communication.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integrations list
- Comprehensive monitoring and alerting
- Tailored for cloud environments
Cons:
- Additional costs for extra features
- The learning curve for advanced features
- May be overkill for smaller setups
Zabbix is an open-source monitoring solution tailored for diverse and expansive IT environments. It excels in providing robust monitoring solutions that expand with growing enterprise needs, particularly vast networks.
Why I Picked Zabbix: I chose Zabbix after careful comparison, valuing its ability to adapt to varying scales of networks without compromising on performance. Its expansive features and adaptability make it a prime choice for large-scale enterprises. This scaling capability, especially for extensive networks, solidifies its position as best for scalability with large networks.
Standout features & integrations:
Zabbix boasts features like auto-discovery, distributed monitoring, and detailed reporting. Additionally, it provides real-time graphing for faster insights. As for integrations, Zabbix is compatible with tools like Grafana, Elasticsearch, and integration platforms like Zapier, fostering wider operational cohesion.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed real-time graphing
- Open-source, offering customization options
- Extensive scalability for large networks
Cons:
- Heavy customization might demand skilled personnel
- otential complexity for beginners
- Requires dedicated setup time
The Best Server Monitoring Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Checkmk | From $2,700/year (for 3,000 monitoring services) | Website |
| PRTG | From $2,149/year | Website |
| New Relic | From $25/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| NinjaOne | From $20/user/month (billed annually) + $25 base fee per month | Website |
| Dynatrace | From $21/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| LogicMonitor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Nagios | From $20/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| AppDynamics | From $6/core/month | Website |
| Datadog | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Zabbix | Free to use | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareOther Notable Server Monitoring Software
Below is a list of additional server monitoring software I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
Selection Criteria for Choosing Server Monitoring Software
I've tested and evaluated dozens of monitoring tools over the years. While there are many competent options out there, not all of them cater to specific needs in the same way. I've always approached my evaluations with a clear set of criteria in mind, prioritizing the unique requirements of network and system monitoring. Here's a deeper dive into the critical factors that guided my selection:
Core Functionality
- Real-time Monitoring: The ability to observe and analyze system behavior as it happens.
- Alert Notifications: Immediate alerts when anomalies or system failures occur.
- Historical Data Analysis: Tools to evaluate past performance data to identify patterns or recurrent issues.
- Scalability: The capacity to grow and monitor more extensive networks without compromising performance.
Key Features
- Customizable Dashboards: Personalize how data is presented based on user preferences or roles.
- Integration Capabilities: The ability to easily connect with other tools, especially those commonly used in IT environments.
- Data Visualization: Graphs, charts, and other visual aids to represent complex data simply.
- Automated Discovery: Automatically identifies and adds new devices or systems to the monitoring scope.
- Role-Based Access Control: Determine who can see what and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data.
- Event Correlation: Grouping related events to pinpoint root causes of issues, rather than sifting through noise.
Usability
- Intuitive User Interface: The dashboard and controls should be organized logically, making it easy to locate specific features or data.
- Drag-and-Drop Customization: For tools that offer customizable dashboards, the ability to adjust elements via drag-and-drop can be invaluable.
- Accessible Learning Resources: Given the potential complexity of monitoring tools, having a comprehensive resource library, documentation, or training program is crucial for onboarding users.
- Responsive Customer Support: The availability of expert help, be it through chat, email, or phone, especially during critical downtimes or system issues.
- Configurable Alerts: The ability to set up alerts based on specific conditions or thresholds, ensuring users receive relevant notifications.
In this type of software, usability becomes paramount. It's not just about having a set of features but how effectively and effortlessly users can employ those features to achieve their monitoring goals.
Most Common Questions Regarding Server Monitoring Software (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using server monitoring tools?
Server monitoring tools offer a range of advantages, including:
- Proactive Issue Identification: They detect potential problems before they escalate, ensuring minimal downtime.
- Optimized Performance: By continuously tracking server health and performance, these tools help maintain systems at peak efficiency.
- Detailed Reporting: They provide insights into server performance metrics, helping businesses make informed decisions.
- Cost Efficiency: By preventing potential outages and optimizing server use, businesses can save significantly in the long run.
- Ease of Scalability: As your infrastructure grows, these tools can adapt, ensuring continuous monitoring.
How much do these server monitoring tools typically cost?
The cost varies widely based on the tool, the scale of your operations, and the features you require. Pricing can range from as low as $10/user/month to upwards of $500/user/month for enterprise-level solutions.
What are the common pricing models for these tools?
Most server monitoring software offers a few standard pricing models:
- Per Device/Node: Pricing is based on the number of devices or nodes you’re monitoring.
- Per User: Pricing depends on the number of users accessing the tool.
- Tiered Packages: Offering different feature sets at different price points, allowing businesses to select the one best suited for them.
- Freemium Models: Basic functionalities are available for free, with premium features at an additional cost.
What's the typical range of pricing for this software?
Typically, for small to mid-sized businesses, the pricing can range between $20 to $200/user/month. For larger enterprises or those requiring advanced functionalities, the pricing can go up to $500/user/month or more.
Which is the cheapest server monitoring software?
Netdata is one of the more affordable options, with its basic version being free and premium features available at a relatively low cost
Which software is the most expensive?
Tools like AppDynamics or Dynatrace, catering primarily to large enterprises with extensive features, tend to be on the higher end of the pricing spectrum.
Are there any free server monitoring tool options available?
Yes, several tools offer free versions. Netdata, for instance, provides a free version. Similarly, tools like Prometheus offer open-source versions that can be used without incurring a cost, although they might require more technical know-how to set up and manage.
Is it worth investing in server monitoring software?
Absolutely. The insights and proactive management these tools offer can prevent costly downtime, enhance server performance, and ultimately lead to better user experience and business efficiency. The initial investment in a good server monitoring tool can save businesses substantial amounts in the long run.
Other Server Monitoring Software Reviews
Summary
Choosing the best server monitoring software is a crucial decision for any business. These tools not only help in maintaining the health and performance of your servers but also play a significant role in ensuring optimal user experience and efficient business operations. The market offers a myriad of options, each with its unique selling proposition, features, and pricing model.
Key Takeaways:
- Identify Core Needs: While all server monitoring tools offer basic functionalities, specific needs such as scalability, real-time analytics, or integrations might dictate your choice. Understand your infrastructure and future growth plans to pick a tool that aligns well.
- Consider Usability and Onboarding: The tool's interface, ease of use, and onboarding process are essential. A complicated tool might offer many features but can become a bottleneck if your team finds it challenging to use.
- Evaluate Cost vs. Value: While pricing is a consideration, it's crucial to weigh the cost against the value the tool provides. Sometimes, investing in a slightly pricier option can offer better features, reliability, and ultimately, a better return on investment.
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