The Best SNMP Monitoring Tools & Software for Servers & Network Devices

Almost every single piece of equipment in your infrastructure has the ability to be monitored using Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) protocol. The issue is that many admins overlook the simplicity and availability of SNMP monitoring for managing their devices. So we thought we'd make it easier for everyone and compile and compare a list of the best SNMP monitoring tools and software on the market that make the job easy and simple.

Here is our list of the top SNMP monitoring tools:

1. Auvik – EDITOR’S CHOICE This cloud-based SaaS package uses SNMP procedures to discover all network devices and create a network inventory. That inventory is constantly updated by re-polling for SNMP agent reports and forms the basis for a network map and live status reporting. Get a 14-day free trial.
2. Datadog Network Device Monitoring – FREE TRIAL This cloud platform extracts status information from network devices through the use of SNMP. Start a 14-day free trial.
3. Paessler PRTG – FREE TRIAL A collection of network, server, and application monitors that uses SNMP as its main method for network monitoring. Installs on Windows Server. Start a 30-day free trial.
4. Site24x7 Network Monitoring – FREE TRIAL A cloud-based monitor for networks, servers, and applications that uses SNMP to get status reports from network devices. Start a 30-day free trial.
5. ManageEngine OpManager – FREE TRIAL An infrastructure monitor that covers network devices and servers and uses SNMP to gather network performance statistics. Installs on Windows Server and Linux. Get the 30-day free trial.
6. SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor A system that uses SNMP processes for network discovery, live status checks on devices, and performance alerts. Installs on Windows Server.
7. Progress WhatsUp Gold A network monitor that implements SNMP procedures for its main network device performance monitoring routines. Installs on Windows Server.

SNMP Protocol allows you to poll device MIBS to extract useful and critical information that will allow you to be proactive about fixing issues that arise before you hear them for your end-users or clients.

On top of keeping your up-time high for all your systems and users, monitoring hardware/software faults, availability and performance issues will be at your finger tips, as many of these programs and tools listed before have intuitive and simple interfaces with built-in reporting and graphs to help you manage everything in a centralized location.

The Best SNMP Monitoring Tools

Below you'll find a list of the top tools and software we recommend for those looking for a monitoring and management solution for your network and devices. Most of these have FREE versions or trials for you to test our and others require you to pay upfront before testing.

Nevertheless, we recommend you download a couple software packages and test them all out before making a choice, this will help you understand their interfaces and features that they offer individually.

With these selection criteria in mind, we have identified the top network performance monitors that use the SNMP to communicate with switches and routers. We made sure to include options for both Windows Server and Linux.

1. Auvik – FREE TRIAL

Auvik is a cloud SaaS platform that provides a network management system. This is based on SNMP and you set it up by installing an agent on one of your servers. The Auvik agent is available for Windows Server and Linux and it acts as an SNMP manager, uploading all responses to the Auvik server for processing.

Key Features:

• Web-Based Dashboard Accessible from Anywhere: Provides convenient access to network management features.
• Centralizes Monitoring of Multiple LANs: Efficiently manages and monitors multiple LANs from a centralized platform.
• Processes SNMP Responses: Utilizes SNMP for comprehensive network monitoring and response processing.
• Identifies Changes in Devices (Additions, Movements, Removals): Keeps track of changes in device status for effective network management.
• Displays SNMP Traps as Alerts in the System Dashboard: Enhances real-time monitoring with SNMP trap alerts.
• Creates a Network Inventory and Network Diagram: Automatically compiles a network inventory and generates network diagrams.

Why do we recommend it?

Auvik is strongly recommended for its cloud SaaS platform that provides a comprehensive Network Management system. Our recommendation is based on its use of SNMP and the convenient setup through an agent installed on Windows Server or Linux. Auvik excels in compiling SNMP responses into a network inventory, automatically drawing up a network diagram, and providing live performance monitoring through a web-based dashboard accessible from anywhere. Its ability to centralize monitoring across multiple LANs, identify changes in device status, and display SNMP traps as alerts makes it a powerful tool for network administrators.

The Auvik system compiles SNMP responses into a network inventory and also draws up a network diagram automatically. Each subsequent polling of the network results in updates to the inventory and map. The data from the SNMP sweep is also displayed in the live performance monitoring screen of the Auvik dashboard. An SNMP device agent will send out a notification if it discovers a status issue on its host. Auvik displays these details as an alert in the system console.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is recommended for network administrators seeking an efficient and centralized Network Management solution. Auvik's cloud-based platform, accessible through a web-based dashboard, is suitable for users managing multiple LANs. The free trial allows users to experience its features, including SNMP response processing, automatic network diagram creation, and live performance monitoring.

You can assess Auvik with a 14-day free trial.

2. Datadog Network Device Monitoring – FREE TRIAL

Datadog Network Device Monitoring watches the performance of a network by querying the switches and routers that connect links together. These status requests are performed through the use of the Simple Network Management Protocol.

Device agents pass activity reports to the SNMP manager, not just system statuses. So, the Network Device Monitor is able to report on live traffic throughput at each node on your network. As an SNMP manager, the Datadog system can process SNMP Trap messages into alerts. You can set thresholds on any of the statistics that the Network Device Monitor gathers and breaches of those levels also trips alerts.

Key Features:

• Automatically Discovers All Devices on the Network: Simplifies the setup by automatically identifying all devices.
• Regularly Gathers Status Reports from Switches and Routers: Ensures up-to-date status reporting for network devices.
• Tracks Live Traffic Throughput at All Points on the Network: Provides insights into live traffic dynamics across the network.
• Receives Trap Messages from Device Agents to Identify Operational Problems: Processes SNMP Trap messages for alerting.
• Forwards Alerts to Technicians via Email, Slack, PagerDuty, Jira, and Webhooks: Offers flexibility in alert notification channels.
• Includes Analytical Tools to Aid Network Performance Optimization: Enhances network performance optimization with analytical insights.

Why do we recommend it?

Datadog Network Device Monitoring is strongly recommended for its effective performance monitoring of networks through SNMP. Our recommendation is based on its capability to query switches and routers, gather status reports, and report live traffic throughput at each network node. Serving as an SNMP manager, Datadog processes SNMP Trap messages into alerts and allows users to set thresholds for various statistics. With automated device discovery, regular status reporting, live traffic tracking, and alert forwarding through various channels, Datadog offers comprehensive network monitoring with analytical tools for performance optimization.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is recommended for users seeking efficient network monitoring with a focus on performance analytics. Datadog's ability to automatically discover devices, gather status reports, and track live traffic throughput makes it suitable for proactive network management. The integration with various alert channels and the inclusion of analytical tools cater to the needs of network administrators aiming for optimized network performance.

Datadog Network Device Monitoring can be set up to forward alerts to technicians via email, Slack, PagerDuty, Jira, and Webhooks. This means that you can leave the system to monitor all of your network because you will be drawn back to the dashboard if problems start to evolve. You can start a 14-day free trial.

Datadog Start a 30-day FREE Trial

3. Paessler PRTG – FREE TRIAL

PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler is another great option for your SNMP network management and monitoring tasks. They provide a list of features and advantages of using their flagship product for monitoring devices.

Key Features:

• Pre-Configured SNMP Sensors for Various Devices: Simplifies monitoring setup with pre-configured sensors for Cisco, HP, Dell, Synology, and more.
• Pre-Built Alarms and Reporting Tools: Provides ready-to-use alarms and reporting tools for efficient network monitoring.
• Support for SNMP Versions 1, 2c, and 3: Offers flexibility in SNMP monitoring.
• Auto-Discovery of SNMP Devices Within the Network: Streamlines the process of discovering and adding SNMP devices.
• Utilization of SNMP, NetFlow, and Other Protocols: Creates an accurate and comprehensive picture of network traffic.
• Customizable Sensors and Dashboard: Allows customization of sensors and dashboard elements for personalized monitoring.
• Flexible Pricing Based on Sensor Utilization: Provides scalability and budget-friendly options for larger networks.

Why do we recommend it?

PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler is highly recommended for SNMP network management and monitoring tasks. Our recommendation is based on its feature-rich offering, including pre-configured SNMP sensors for various devices, support for SNMP versions 1, 2c, and 3, auto-discovery of SNMP devices, and more. PRTG stands out for its utilization of SNMP, NetFlow, and other protocols to create an accurate picture of network traffic. With customizable sensors, an intuitive dashboard, and a flexible pricing model, PRTG is suitable for both small and large networks.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is recommended for network administrators seeking a versatile and scalable solution for SNMP monitoring. PRTG's support for various protocols, customizable sensors, and a free version for up to 100 sensors make it suitable for both small and large networks. Its flexible pricing based on sensor utilization caters to budget-conscious organizations, and the intuitive dashboard enhances user experience.

On top of SNMP monitoring features, PRTG offers WMI, Netflow/IPFix and Packet Sniffing capabilities within their software as well. PRTG offers a Free Version of their Popular Network Monitor that allows you to monitor up to 100 FREE of Charge. Get a 30-day free trial.

Paessler PRTG Start a 30-day FREE Trial

4. Site24x7 Network Monitoring – FREE TRIAL

Site24x7 is a cloud-based monitoring platform that includes a network monitor with each of its plans, although the module is not available as a standalone monitoring system.

Key Features:

• Holistic Monitoring Platform: Offers a unified solution for comprehensive monitoring.
• Provides Up-to-Date Insights into Network Performance: Real-time data for device discovery, chart creation, network mapping, and inventory reporting
• User-Friendly Interface: Enhances user experience with an intuitive and accessible interface.
• User Monitoring Enhancements: Connects technical aspects with user behavior and business metrics.
• Supports Freeware Version for Testing: Allows users to explore features with a free version.

Why do we recommend it?

Site24x7 Network Monitoring is highly recommended for its holistic approach to monitoring, encompassing networks, infrastructure, and real user monitoring within a single platform. Our recommendation is rooted in its cloud-based nature, enabling comprehensive device discovery, chart creation, network mapping, and inventory reporting in real-time. Site24x7 stands out for its user-friendly interface and the ability to bridge technical issues, user behavior, and business metrics through real user monitoring. With support for SNMP Trap messages, alerts can be forwarded via SMS, email, voice call, or instant messaging posts.

The network monitor pools all devices with a request broadcast, gaining responses from the agents loaded onto all network devices by their manufacturers. These responses enable Site24x7 to compile a network inventory and draw up a network topology map. With each successive status report request, the service not only gets live performance data to show in the dashboard, but it also receives updates on the network inventory.

The network monitor receives SNMP Trap messages and interprets them into alerts, which can be forwarded to technicians by SMS, email, voice call, or instant messaging posts.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is recommended for users seeking a comprehensive and user-friendly monitoring solution. Site24x7's holistic approach, real-time data utilization, and support for various alert channels make it suitable for users managing networks, infrastructure, and user monitoring within a unified platform. The freeware version allows for testing, making it accessible for users exploring its features.

You can start with a 30-day free trial.

Site24x7 Start a 30-day FREE Trial

Related Post: Best Network Monitoring Tools & Software

5. ManageEngine OpManager – FREE TRIAL

ManageEngine OpManager provides enterprise level reporting and SNMP monitoring capabilities in an easy-to-use management interface. Out-of-the-box support for all major hardware and software, OpManager proves to be another great product to try out amongst the crowd.

Key Features:

• Enterprise-Level Reporting and SNMP Monitoring Capabilities: Provides comprehensive reporting and SNMP monitoring.
• Out-of-the-Box Support for Major Hardware and Software: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and applications.
• VMWare, Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer Monitoring: Covers virtualized environments seamlessly.
• Supports SNMP v1, v2, and v3, ICMP, WMI, and Telnet: Offers versatile monitoring options for different devices.
• Auto-Discovery for New Devices and Inventory Management: Simplifies the process of detecting and managing devices.
• Automatic Network Topology Map Based on Probed Devices: Aids in detecting new devices and identifying rogue access points.
• Log Collection Capabilities for Detailed Information: Provides in-depth insights beyond simple ping monitors.

Why do we recommend it?

ManageEngine OpManager is strongly recommended for its enterprise-level reporting, SNMP monitoring capabilities, and user-friendly management interface. Our recommendation is rooted in its out-of-the-box support for major hardware and software, making it a great choice for diverse environments. OpManager's comprehensive support extends to VMWare, Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer monitoring, covering virtualized environments seamlessly. With autodiscovery, SNMP support, and the ability to monitor via ICMP, WMI, and telnet, OpManager provides a versatile solution for performance monitoring and inventory management.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is recommended for IT professionals managing diverse environments and seeking a comprehensive yet user-friendly monitoring solution. OpManager's support for SNMP v1, v2, and v3, along with its ability to monitor through ICMP, WMI, and telnet, makes it suitable for both technical and non-technical users. The platform's capabilities in autodiscovery, automatic network topology mapping, and detailed log collection cater to users requiring a robust monitoring tool.

From VMWare Server Monitoring to Hyper-V Virtual Machine monitoring capabilities to Citrix XenServer monitoring, you can monitor your entire Virtualized environment right off the bat. On top of supporting SNMP v1, v2 and v3, they also can monitor via ICMP, WMI and telnet if necessary for devices non-SNMP devices.

Price: Start with the 30-day free trial to work out what your requirements are.

ManageEngine OpManager Download a 30-day FREE Trial

3. SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor – FREE TRIAL

Network Performance Monitor by SolarWinds is our one of our Top Choices for SNMP Monitoring tools due its ever-evolving feature set that will only grow as time goes on. They've recently introduced Network Insight for Cisco ASA that really brings a new level of monitoring to your Cisco ASA devices and helps you automate the monitoring and management of ASA devices within their platform.

Key Features:

• Auto-Discovery with Real-Time Network Topology Maps and Inventory Lists: Dynamically builds network maps and inventory based on entering devices.
• Native SNMP MIBs for Top Hardware and Software Packages: Allows automatic scanning and inventory creation for various devices.
• Live Status Reports and SNMP Trap Interpretation: Compiles real-time status reports and interprets SNMP Traps for effective monitoring.
• Supports SNMP versions 2 and 3: Provides flexibility in SNMP monitoring.
• Packet Analysis Alongside SNMP Monitoring: Offers control over monitoring with both SNMP and packet analysis.
• Customizable Dashboard with Drag-and-Drop Widgets: Enhances user experience with customizable dashboard elements.
• Robust Reporting System with Pre-Configured Compliance Templates: Streamlines compliance reporting with pre-configured templates.

Why do we recommend it?

SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) is highly recommended as one of the top choices for SNMP monitoring tools. Our recommendation is rooted in its ever-evolving feature set, particularly the recent introduction of Network Insight for Cisco ASA, enhancing monitoring capabilities for Cisco ASA devices. NPM stands out for its native SNMP MIBs, allowing automatic scanning and inventory creation for top hardware and software packages. With a focus on large and enterprise networks, NPM offers robust features, including auto-discovery, live status reports, SNMP Trap interpretation, and support for SNMP versions 2 and 3.

NPM has native SNMP mibs for many of the top hardware and software packages available on the market,which can be automatically scanned and added into your inventory within the dashboard. NPM regularly scanning your network for SNMP devices, you can stay on top of your network and devices, espeically if you have a large network that is dynamic and is always scaling.

SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor uses SNMP together with ICMP to discover all devices connected to a network, document them in a network inventory, and then automatically create a network topology map from the information it gleans. Once the network has been mapped, the Network Performance Monitor sends out SNMP request packets and compiles live status reports on the replies that it receives from the SNMP device agents on the network. The monitor also receives SNMP Trap messages from agents and interprets those into alerts

NPM supports SNMP version 2 and version 3 and SolarWinds even has a handy tool for enabling SNMP on remote computers and servers automatically from a list of IP addresses called SNMP Enabler for Windows for FREE.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is recommended for network administrators overseeing large and enterprise networks. SolarWinds NPM excels in auto-discovery, real-time inventory creation, and network topology mapping, making it suitable for dynamic and scalable networks. The drag-and-drop widgets for dashboard customization, robust alerting features, and support for both SNMP monitoring and packet analysis provide comprehensive control over network monitoring.

You can download a 30-day free trial.

7. Progress WhatsUp Gold

WhatsUp Gold by Progress is great alternative to the above two software packages if your looking another option to try. They provide great support for SNMP traps and real-time performance updates with assist with troubleshooting tasks. WhatsUp Gold also has a slew of built-in scripts for SNMP devices that assist in the discovery and mapping of network components within their dashboard.

Key Features:

• Robust Support for SNMP Traps and Real-Time Performance Updates: Ensures effective monitoring with SNMP capabilities.
• Built-In Scripts for SNMP Devices: Assists in the discovery and mapping of network components.
• Simple Visualizations for At-a-Glance Insights: Enhances user understanding with straightforward visual representations.
• Modular Pricing for Flexibility: Allows companies to pay for specific features they intend to use.
• Monitoring Capabilities for LANs, WANs, and Cloud-Based Applications: Provides versatility in monitoring different network environments, including container environments.

You can start with a free trial.

Choosing an SNMP Monitoring tool

Above are some of the paid software solutions that are the most popular in terms of SNMP monitoring, but we understand that not everyone is inclined to using a commercially-available product and would like to have either great flexibility with the software they're using or your budget is non-existent.

• Nagios Core
• Pandora FMS
• MRTG
• Spiceworks
• Zabbix
• LibreNMS
• OpenNMS
• Observium (free version available)
• Cacti
• Icinga
• Zenoss Core
• and many more

The software from above have freely available downloads or freeware versions that can be used within your network as you see fit. Some of them have fully featured versions that need additional licensing and have incurring costs associated with them.

We suggest if your looking for a quick way to start monitoring SNMP devices in your network, grab a download of either Auvik, Datadog, Paessler PRTG, or ManageEngine OpManager from above and get started testing them out and understanding their capabilities.

We've had experience with all of these software packages and can firmly say they deliver the Best SNMP Monitoring tools in the market!

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