Network Monitoring Software

Network Monitoring Software

Network monitoring software is designed to continuously monitor internet and intranet servers. Some types of monitoring software detect problems with the network and trigger an alarm, allowing the system administrator to correct the problem as soon as possible. Other types of monitoring software look specifically for security breaches or record user activity.

Uses for Network Monitoring Software

Monitor Network Performance – Monitoring software can watch for problems with devices, ports, databases, and services and immediately report any difficulties. The software can issue alerts to system administration staff via pager, cell phone, email, or audible alarm. This allows the system administrator to deal with problems as soon as they occur and avoids or minimizes network downtime. The software can also be configured to reboot/restart the system or launch external applications when it detects specific problems. Advantages of this software are improved network reliability, increased user satisfaction and productivity, and the ability to make informed decisions on critical network resources.

This type of monitoring software sends a ‘ping' to test servers, routers, switches, and links to make sure they are operating correctly. Various types of monitoring software can also test websites to ensure they are responding to user's requests, monitor services to make sure they are functioning, examine event logs for critical errors, and track amounts of available computer disk drive space.

With optional sensors to detect temperature, humidity, and wetness, the monitoring software can alert staff when the environmental conditions in the data center are above or below optimums. This can protect expensive equipment from damage from extremes of temperature, humidity, or moisture.

Monitor Network Traffic – Some types of software are designed to monitor all traffic going in and out of the network. The software generates reports on overall network activity or on the activity of a specific individual using the network. This software can track total incoming and outgoing traffic, email sent and received, instant messaging conversations, uploads and downloads, search engine queries, and virus activity. This type of software can also be used by businesses to monitor employee use of computer resources.

Network Security – Privacy and security is a major concern of network administrators. Monitoring software can help protect data and computer systems by investigating network use and preventing intrusions by hackers and viruses. Intrusion detection systems (IDS) monitor traffic patterns on the network and alert a system administrator if an intrusion takes place. Firewalls analyze the data entering and leaving the network and exclude unauthorized traffic. Secure socket layer (SSL) is a protocol that ensures secure transmission of sensitive or private information across the network.

Monitoring programs are part of a network security system that allows appropriate access to users and programs, but keeps unauthorized users and malicious programs out.

Network monitoring software can be used to track a single website or small local area network (LAN) or to monitor server systems around the globe. Many software companies offer free trial versions of their network monitoring products.

By Carla Wakeman           


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