PRTG Network Monitor

Large computer networks are difficult to manage. If something goes wrong on one or more computers, you could spend all day trying to identify and fix the problem. Fortunately, specialized network monitoring programs can relieve you from such headaches. An excellent example is PRTG Network Monitor. It can monitor a network at all times and it can retrieve any information you need about a computer, including its resources, bandwidth usage and much more. The program can also alert you of potential problems, before they deteriorate into serious situations.

PRTG Network Monitor is available in free and paid versions. It is compatible with all modern Windows platforms, including various Server editions and it takes about two minutes to install its core components. The installation procedure does not involve any complex settings, so you only need to wait until it is done.

Besides a desktop user interface, the software provides a browser-based interface as well. The two interfaces have different layouts, but they display the same information. At a first glance, you won't find too many options on the interfaces, but you will find a huge amount of information. You can make a wide range of configurations when you launch PRTG Network Monitor for the first time or at a later date. The software allows you to enable an SSL encryption, discover your network and more.

You can scan your network for computers and devices, during the initial configurations, but you can also add hosts manually, on the desktop interface. All you have to do is specify a host name or IP address, a port, login name and password. Monitored hosts and their corresponding sensors are displayed in a tree structure, on the desktop interface.

Each sensor displays numerous details, on multiple tabs, in the larger area of the window. You can find various health and performance statistics, inventory information and more. The software displays warnings and alarms as well. For example, if a computer's CPU usage is too high or if a drive runs out of free space, the warning will catch your eye. Moreover, you can set the program to send notifications via email. Furthermore, PRTG Network Monitor comes in Android and iOS versions, so you can monitor your network even if you are on the road. You can also set up your own notification types, define schedules and much more.