Top System Monitoring Tools for Windows Environments

System Monitoring is without question one of the most important tasks for IT admins, because it helps them guarantee that all servers are working at top performance. While Windows’s own monitoring tool “Task Manager” is very useful for casual resource monitoring, it lacks added features that other tools have, like alerting, notification, reporting, etc.

Using the right monitoring tool will help you keep all infrastructures’ health information in control and alert you about any unplanned downtime.

The tools that monitor the infrastructure should be designed to add the least performance impact on the system that is being monitored. In other words, these tools need to be as unobtrusive as possible to avoid any added burden on the production services.

Here is our list of the best system monitoring tools:

1. SuperOps – FREE TRIAL This SaaS platform provides remote monitoring and management tools, which include the monitoring of endpoints running Windows. Start a 14-day free trial.
2. SolarWinds Server & Application Monitor – FREE TRIAL A package of monitoring tools that watch over software and server activities, including cloud resources and web application monitoring. Runs on Windows Server. Start a 30-day free trial.
3. Datadog Infrastructure Monitoring – FREE TRIAL This plan is delivered from the cloud and offers server monitoring plus the tracing of all service and application activity on each server. Offered for Linux servers as well as those running Windows.
4. Paessler PRTG – FREE TRIAL A bundle of monitoring systems that supervise the performance of networks, servers, and applications. Runs on Windows Server.
5. Site24x7 Windows Monitoring – FREE TRIAL A monitoring service for networks, servers, and applications. The cloud-based service can monitor servers running Windows Server and Linux.
6. ManageEngine OpManager – FREE TRIAL A bundle on network and server monitoring systems that includes monitoring for hypervisors. Available for Linux and Windows Server.
7. Nagios XI and Core A free (Nagios Core) and a paid (Nagios XI) package of system monitoring tools that is written for Linux but can run on windows over a virtual machine.
8. WhatsUp Gold An SNMP-based network performance monitor that can be expanded by add-on modules to monitor servers and applications. Installs on Windows Server.
9. Zabbix A free system monitoring tool that covers networks, servers, and applications. Written for Linux, macOS, and Unix but can run on a Windows server over a VM.
10. Spiceworks Network Monitor Another free tool great for small to medium sized Windows networks.

A monitoring tool should also add flexibility to the maintenance of the network. In a medium to large network, a central monitoring server will help offload the added impact on the systems being monitored.

Basically, the central server collects monitoring data from all agents installed in the servers. An agent is low-impact software that collects information of the server that is hosting it and sends it to the central server in order to process it.

When looking for a system monitoring software package there are many things to consider. Apart from the basic monitoring functionalities such as processes and system performance, it is essential that the tool allows the following features

1. Customizable alerts and notifications.
2. Auto-discovery of systems.
3. Easy graphical user interface.
4. Automatic update measurements.
5. Easy Installation and operation.

What should you look for in Windows system monitoring tools?

With these selection criteria in mind, we have identified some very strong system monitors for Windows.

Here's a List of the Best System Monitoring Tools and Software:

Windows users deal with a large variety of options when it comes to systems monitoring tools. The following list details 7 tools and software on the market that will help you keep a close eye on your infrastructure if your primarily a Windows Server (2012, 2008, 2003, etc).

The nice part about these tools is that most of them have agentless monitoring systems (utiltizing services such as HTTP, PING, SSH, etc) to monitor devices that are not Windows based, such as Linux, Unix, Mac OSX and others.

1. SuperOps – FREE TRIAL

SuperOps is a SaaS package that provides remote monitoring and management tools for use by managed service providers and IT departments. The package includes automated processes for monitoring computers running Windows. The package also provides management systems that include a patch manager.

Key Features:

• Asset registry
• Software license management
• Patch management

Why do we recommend it?

SuperOps is an AI-powered easy-to-use tool with a comprehensive set of features such as automated monitoring, patch management, asset, and alert management. These features in a single module make it easy for IT departments to track and improve their overall system performance.

The endpoint monitoring facility in the RMM provides supervision for devices running macOS as well as for those with Windows. The service includes performance expectation thresholds that trigger alerts if crossed. These enable a single technician to manage many endpoints simultaneously, creating high productivity.

The endpoint management service includes a patch manager that updates Windows, macOS, and the software packages that run on those devices. The patching system operates unattended, running automatically at the next available maintenance window. Completion statuses are recorded to assist with compliance reporting.

Who is it recommended for?

It is best suitable for MSPs and IT departments thanks to its subscription-based and costs per technician pricing model. Even small businesses and enterprises can invest in the lightweight SaaS tool that automatically updates software packages running on Windows and Mac devices.

2. SolarWinds Server & Application Monitor

SolarWinds, has been a long-time leader for IT enterprise infrastructure management software. They developed the Server & Application Monitor “SAM”, a software very easy to install and use. The tool has a simple dashboard which is intuitive for any experienced IT admin.

Key Features:

• Performance tracking
• Prebuilt reports and audits
• Customizable dashboard widgets

Why do we recommend it?

The full stack system monitoring tool is quite easy to install and use. Organizations can track all IT assets, server performance, and system health from a single platform. It comes with a wide set of features such as auto-discovery, multiple integration support, pre-configured templates, and the ability to monitor several site and cloud environments.

SAM is perfect for monitoring services and performance counters. It can be used to monitor a large variety of applications (+200) from a single dashboard. The dashboard comes pre-configured so that you can easily start the software out-of-the-box with little or no tweaking.

SAM is a great tool for Real-time Monitoring and Management but is also amazing for collecting and reporting data from different agents from a central server.

SAM delivers visibility and performance tracking for all of the important infrastructure that binds running software through to its supporting resources. The service includes an alerting mechanism that triggers warnings when performance thresholds that are placed on the statistics pipeline are crossed. These alerts can be forwarded to technicians by email or SMS notifications and that gives them time to fix problems before users notice.

Who is it recommended for?

Large enterprises can make the best from SolarWinds Server & Application Monitoring tool for it allows users to monitor multiple applications from a single dashboard. Organizations on a global scale can also map and monitor their assets without any hassle.

Official website: http://www.solarwinds.com/server-application-monitor

Download 30 Day Trial FREE: http://www.solarwinds.com/server-application-monitor/register/

Start 30-day Free Trial!

3. Datadog Infrastructure Monitor – FREE TRIAL

Datadog Infrastructure Monitoring is a cloud-based system that covers servers running Windows and Linux. The server monitoring system identifies all of the key metrics of server performance and displays them live in the Datadog console.

Key Features:

• Highly scalable platform
• Support for local and cloud monitoring
• Root cause analysis

Why do we recommend it?

With Datadog Infrastructure Monitoring, organizations can keep a closer watch over their physical and virtual servers, databases, and networks. The comprehensive monitoring tool is easy to deploy and requires minimal maintenance. It even offers application dependency mapping and end-to-end visibility into infrastructure performance.

The Data system will consolidate the monitoring of servers from all of your sites and it can also include virtual servers rented in the cloud. The package will unify monitoring for servers of different operating systems.

As well as offering an overview screen of all servers, the system has detailed screen for each server in your system. The package also monitors the performance of the services and applications that run on your servers. This combined view lets you see quickly where the root cause of performance problems lie.

Who is it recommended for?

DevOps Teams, IT departments, and cloud-native environments can use the tool to track and maintain the health of their applications and infrastructure.

Official Website: https://www.datadoghq.com/server-monitoring/

Access a 14-day free trial: https://www.datadoghq.com/free-datadog-trial/

4. Paessler PRTG

PRTG “Paessler Router Traffic Grapher”, focuses strictly in network infrastructure monitoring. PRTG is able to check on systems, appliances and applications. All of the functionalities from PRTG can be installed with a single installer and without needing to download any add-ons.

Key Features:

• Highly customizable sensors
• Multitenant monitoring
• Simple interface and admin console
• PRTG runs on Windows and is able to monitor network availability and utilization using SNMP among other protocols. It is also able to automatically discover systems and devices by analyzing different IP networking segments. From this information
• PRTG can create network maps that can be published on the web for easy analysis. You can purchase the basic service PRTG 500 for $1,300, which allows monitoring up to 500 sensors (sensors are aspects monitored on a device).

Why do we recommend it?

With Paessler PRTG, you can watch over your entire IT infrastructure, multiple sites, and cloud-based services. The setting up process might sound a bit complex but the drag-and-drop editor, autodiscovery feature, alert system, and other options make it stand out.

Who is it recommended for?

The PRTG system is appropriate for companies of all sizes because you won't have to pay for features you are unwilling to use. As long as you only activate 100 sensors, you can use the package for free.

Official Website: https://www.paessler.com/prtg

PRTG 100 Sensors FREE (no Time limitation, etc): https://www.paessler.com/download/

Download Now – 100 Free Sensors

5. Site24x7 Windows Monitoring

Site24x7 Infrastructure monitors servers running Windows Server. It can also monitor Linux servers. As well as supervising servers, the system can monitor networks and applications. This tool is part of a cloud-based system monitoring platform.

Key Features:

• Prebuilt monitors and reports
• Simple agent deployment
• Flexible pricing

Why do we recommend it?

Site24x7 Windows Monitoring tools come with a wide range of key metrics that help discover devices, detect issues, and run in-depth root cause analysis in real-time. The IT Automation capabilities further help in automating fault resolution.

The server monitoring module tracks more than 60 metrics on performance. Topics covered by the monitor include CPU capacity and usage, memory activity, and disk space and usage. The dashboard for the service is hosted on Site24x7 servers in the Cloud, which is where all processing is performed.

The screens for the server monitor include data visualization that shows live reports on activities. The system also displays network activity statistics.

The server monitor sets performance thresholds on each of the statuses that it monitors. When performance drops below one of those thresholds, the system raises an alert, which can also be forwarded to users via SMS, email, voice call, or instant messaging post.

Who is it recommended for?

Both small and larger businesses can use the tool as per their budget thanks to the four editions available in different pricing plans. Even managed service providers can make the best from one of its editions.

Site24x7 is a subscription service and there are no deposit requirements or the need for a long-term contract with a minimum service period. The Site24x7 Infrastructure service costs $9 per month when paid for annually. IT is available for a 30-day free trial.

Official Website: https://www.site24x7.com/windows-monitoring.html

6. ManageEngine OpManager

OpManager is a tool by ManageEngine. OpManager helps an administrator keep a close eye on the infrastructure, network and the Application Performance Management “APM”. It can be used for either Windows or Linux environments.

Key Features:

• Customizable SLAs per client
• Simple native graphical reporting
• Autodiscovery of new assets
• OpManager is an integrated network management application that allows you to focus on one tool instead of separated networking features. Installing the manager is really easy and once installed it will automatically discover up to 15,000 network interfaces – you can see our full ManageEngine Opmanager review here for more details.
• The User Graphical Interface makes it very easy to use and also highly customizable. OpManager best features include Network and Server management, traffic analysis, network configuration management, and fault and performance management.

Why do we recommend it?

ManageEngine OpManager is an affordable solution that provides deep visibility and drills down to the root cause of a problem. You can monitor your networks, servers, entire Cisco ACI infrastructure, and WAN links from a single console. You can even set color-coded alarms according to severity levels.

Who is it recommended for?

Businesses of all sizes can use the OpManager tool for network monitoring and management thanks to its affordable and transparent licensing model

The essential edition, for up to 25 devices can be purchased for $595. We've written up an extensive review of ManageEngine Opmanager for you to get a better understanding of its benefits and features. They Offer a 30-day free trial.

Official Site: https://www.manageengine.com/network-monitoring/

7. Nagios XI and Core

Nagios XI and Nagios Core, are two monitoring tools from Nagios, a leader and standard bearer in IT infrastructure monitoring.

Key Features:

• Robust multitenant management features
• Simple reports and monitoring options
• Open source
• Nagios XI is a network monitoring tool that can be highly customized to turn itself into a powerful monitor for isolated or particular circumstances. Nagios XI is easy to install, but it needs to be tweaked a lot to meet your specific needs (Manual Editing of Configuration files, plugins, etc.).
• Since the tool does not automatically discover devices, you need to indicate each device through a configuration file, only then, the tool will start sending alerts. Nagios XI can be purchased starting at $1995 for 100 nodes.

Why do we recommend it?

Nagios XI and Core are highly flexible and great options for monitoring servers, networks, and applications. The Core service is a bit comprehensive but free for use. Addons created by the community can assist with configuration setup and discovery.

Nagios Core is the free and open-source version. Not to underestimate this freebie, Core is powerful infrastructure monitoring and alerting software. This tool is very easy to download, install and use but of course, it has its limitations, the reporting and user interface are very restricted.

Who is it recommended for?

For small businesses, the Nagios Core service is a great option as it is available for free. However, to use it you might require pairing it with Kibana as the interface is not very comprehensive.

Nagios XI, uses Nagios Core as its engine. Since Core is open source there are many plugins and add-ons in the community that can work with Nagios XI to extend the capabilities.

Official Website: https://www.nagios.com/products/nagios-xi/

8. WhatsUp Gold

WhatsUp Gold Network monitoring tool from IPSwitch, comes with advanced visualization features that makes the main dashboard really appealing.

Key Features:

• Highly visual reporting
• Modular feature upgrades
• Cloud and local monitoring support
• Whatsup Gold allows you to monitor networks, servers, applications, VMs, and traffic flows. The interactive network map lets you visualize the complete network and find problems easily.

Why do we recommend it?

WhatsUp Gold is known for its out-of-the-box functionalities and in-depth insights into the entire network infrastructure. Easy customization, real-time alerts, and intuitive workflows assist in reducing MTTRs. Also, companies can access its products and features based on their need to use thanks to the modular pricing options.

Who is it recommended for?

Businesses of all sizes and MSPs can use WhatsUp Gold to proactively track the health and performance of their systems and network infrastructure thanks to its modular pricing model.

The installation process is really simple; the add-ons can be included right from the start. The basic version can be purchased with a starting fee of $1755 (a one-time license).

Official Website: https://www.ipswitch.com/application-and-network-monitoring/whatsup-gold

9. Zabbix

Zabbix is an open-source enterprise and free monitoring tool. It is a great tool for monitoring hosts and services for small to medium networks. But when it comes to large networks, Zabbix can become difficult to scale up, as service discovery becomes complicated.

Key Features:

• Open source
• Collects a wide range of device information
• Integrates well with other products

Why do we recommend it?

Zabbix is an all-in-one open-source tool that tracks on-premises as well as cloud data. It is scalable to any infrastructure, safe, flexible, and offers 24/7 uptime. You can even integrate Zabbix with your existing systems.

The tool comes with lightweight agents to install in servers (either Unix or Windows) and can monitor statistics like network utilization, CPU load, memory, etc. The open-source community of Zabbix is really helpful when solving configuration-related issues and customization.

Who is it recommended for?

With Zabbix, you can keep a good track on your small and medium networks making it an excellent option for small businesses and IT operational teams. However, businesses with large networks may find it difficult to scale up.

Official Website: http://www.zabbix.com

10. Spiceworks Network Monitor

Spiceworks Network Monitor is another free tool great for small to medium sized Windows networks. The tool allows you to monitor servers, services and devices like routers or switches through SNMP protocol.

Key Features:

• Free tool
• Easy to use
• Simple native reporting

Why do we recommend it?

Spiceworks is known to be the best option for real-time updates on web applications and service up/down status. It is quite easy to install, free, and offers full-time monitoring of critical web applications. Also, sends alerts in case of an application outage.

The tool is very easy to install and use. Its graphical interface is very intuitive for anybody with decent knowledge on networks. The downside of the tool is that it lacks customization to create alerts and notifications. Since the tool doesn’t have granularity at the moment of configuration, it is not suitable for large enterprises.

Who is it recommended for?

The basic network monitoring features for free make it the best suitable option for businesses on a tight budget, small to medium-sized businesses, and system administrators.

Official Website: https://www.spiceworks.com

Summary

The list above is a careful selection of the top System Monitoring tools that can work in Windows environments. Some tools are perfect for any size network but others are only suitable for small to medium size networks. Some are more expensive than others and some are even free.

It can be overwhelming to choose the right tool, as there are a lot of different IT monitoring vendors and many other options in the market. Before setting to look for a system monitoring tool, is critical to define your current network state, what are the assets that you are trying to keep an eye on? What is the behavior of your network?

Having the right tool for the right type of network could easily help you forecast system failures, keep your servers running smooth and just help save your business’ money.

Best System Monitoring Tools for Windows FAQs