PRTG Network Monitor is a network monitoring tool widely used in different industries around the world. Designed by Paessler AG, this solution has been key for IT administrators looking to manage and monitor their infrastructure in a simple and effective way. From small businesses to large corporations can benefit from its versatility and multiple features.
In this article, we will explain everything about PRTG, what makes it special, how to use it, and the advantages it provides for network management. If you are looking for an all-in-one monitoring tool that allows you to maintain full control over your network, read on to find out in depth everything that PRTG Network Monitor can offer you.
What is PRTG?
PRTG, originally known as Paessler Router Traffic Grapher, is a software developed by Paessler AG which is used for real-time network monitoring. This tool allows network administrators, service providers and businesses in general to monitor the status of their servers, devices and applications, by keeping detailed track of network traffic, bandwidth usage and other key system performance indicators.
What sets PRTG apart from other monitoring solutions is its ease of use, its ability to centralize monitoring on a single platform, and its support for a wide range of technologies and protocols, including SNMP, WMI, SSH y NetFlowIn short, it offers comprehensive monitoring that covers everything from physical network components, such as switches and routers, to servers and applications.
PRTG is available in three main versions, tailored to different needs:
- PRTG Network Monitor, the classic solution for local monitoring.
- PRTG Enterprise Monitor, designed for larger, higher-capacity networks.
- PRTG Hosted Monitor, the cloud solution that does not require its own infrastructure.
Regardless of which version you choose, they all share the same goal: providing detailed, centralized monitoring that allows you to detect problems before they affect your network and reduce There of inactivity.
Agentless and agent-based monitoring
One of the most notable features of PRTG is that it can operate without the need to install agents on the devices to be monitored. This means that you do not have to worry about adding additional software on each server, switch or router. PRTG uses widely known network protocols such as SNMP, WMI y SSH, among others. In this way, it takes advantage of the services that are already available on the devices to obtain the necessary monitoring data.
Additionally, if your infrastructure is larger or you distribute your networks across multiple locations, PRTG also offers the option of agent monitoring using remote probesWith them, you can monitor different networks from a central location, which is ideal for managed service providers (MSPs) or companies with geographically dispersed branches.
The three versions of PRTG
As we mentioned before, PRTG has three different versions, each adapted to different types of companies and needs. Let's briefly review each of them:
PRTG Network Monitor
This is the classic version of PRTG and is ideal for small and medium-sized networks. It is installed on a local server and from there it controls the company's network infrastructure. One of its strong points is how easy it is to install and configure, making it suitable for both experienced network administrators and those who are just starting out in the world of network monitoring.
Among its main features are monitoring of devices and network traffic, real-time notifications through multiple channels (emails, SMS, or even apps mobile) and the ability to generate customizable reports.
PRTG Enterprise Monitor
Intended for large and distributed networks, PRTG Enterprise Monitor provides support for multiple geographic locations and a larger number of sensors. This can be a key aspect for large companies that need to have complete visibility over all their servers, devices and network in general. In addition, it includes access to ITOps Board, a dashboard that allows detailed monitoring of the performance and availability of the infrastructure.
This version also offers advanced tools for managing service level agreements (SLAs) and monitoring specific business processes, making it a robust option for organizations that need deep, detailed monitoring.
PRTG Hosted Monitor
For those who prefer not to manage their own hardware or infrastructure, PRTG Hosted Monitor offers a cloud solution. This hosted version is available through AWS (Amazon Web Services), ensuring high availability and security without the need for local servers.
Centralized control, automatic alerts and customizations are features available in this version, as well as in the local options. The main advantage is the scalability it offers, since the number of sensors can be adjusted according to the needs of each user.
PRTG Sensors
The core of PRTG is the sensors, which are key components for monitoring. A sensor is a single metric on a device, and depending on the complexity of what you want to monitor, you can configure different types of sensors. For example, for a network switch, you might use a sensor that monitors traffic on a specific port or processor load.
PRTG offers over 200 predefined sensor types that allow monitoring a wide range of devices and services, from HTTP servers to databases or cloud applications. Additionally, custom sensors can be configured via scripts or using the APIs available in PRTG.
- Performance Sensors: used to monitor CPU, RAM, and disk space on servers or devices.
- Network sensors: ideal for measuring response times, incoming/outgoing traffic and detecting network failures.
- Application Sensors: such as email (SMTP/POP3) or HTTP sensors to monitor the status and performance of different services.
Alerts and notifications in PRTG
One of the most valued aspects of PRTG is its flexible and customizable alert system. PRTG alerts you when it detects anomalies or metrics that exceed established thresholds, either through emails, push notifications on your phone or even through integrations with platforms like Telegram or Slack.
This alert system is very adaptable, as it allows you to avoid notification overload by using features such as: dependencies, which allow you to receive alerts only when they are really necessary. Additionally, if you are an advanced user, you can use the PRTG API to develop your own notification mechanisms.
PRTG Prices
PRTG's licensing system is based on the number of sensors, which offers great flexibility. Depending on the version you choose and your monitoring needs, prices can vary considerably. For example, the basic version of PRTG Network Monitor starts at around €100. $2.149 for 500 sensors, but if you need to monitor a more complex network with more than 10.000 sensors, it can cost up to $17.899.
PRTG also offers a free version with up to 100 sensors, which is enough for small projects or home networks. This option is ideal for those who want to try out the software before committing to a higher cost license.
Industrial sectors that use PRTG
PRTG’s reach is not limited to just technology companies. Many industries have adopted this monitoring solution due to its flexibility and scalability. Among the sectors that benefit the most from its functionalities are:
- Material where PRTG is used to align operational and information technology, enhancing smart production.
- Health: helping to maintain the good performance of critical systems for the operation of hospitals and medical centers.
- Education: to control the technological infrastructure of educational institutions, ensuring that services operate smoothly.
- Government: where PRTG is used to monitor and secure internal networks.
Additionally, companies around the world in sectors such as finance, energy and telecommunications trust PRTG to manage their digital infrastructure.
PRTG is undoubtedly one of the best monitoring solutions available on the market. From its user-friendly interface, to its ability to monitor large distributed infrastructures, to its flexible alerting and reporting system, it is an essential tool for any business that wants to maintain comprehensive control of its network and prevent problems before they happen.
I'm Alberto Navarro and I'm passionate about everything related to technology, from cutting-edge gadgets to software and video games of all kinds. My interest in digital began with video games and continued in the world of digital marketing. I have been writing about the digital world on different platforms since 2019, sharing the latest news in the sector. I also try to write in an original way so that you can stay up to date while having fun.
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