Network monitoring is key for SMEs to avoid downtime and ensure smooth operations. With so many tools available, finding the right fit for your business can be challenging. Here’s a quick guide to the top 7 tools tailored for SMEs:
- SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor: Best for detailed performance tracking with AI-powered insights. Starts at $2,995.
- ManageEngine OpManager: Affordable, scalable, and user-friendly. Pricing starts at $1,995 for 50 devices.
- PRTG Network Monitor: Flexible sensor-based pricing, starting free for 100 sensors, then $2,149/year for 500 sensors.
- Auvik: Cloud-based with automated network mapping. Custom pricing available.
- Datadog: Cloud-native with advanced analytics and compliance tools. Pricing starts at $15/host/month.
- Domotz: Ideal for hardware monitoring and IT service providers. Pricing begins at $20/user/month plus a $25 base fee.
- Site24x7: Affordable cloud-based monitoring starting at $9/month for 10 monitors.
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Core Features | Best For | Starting Price | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SolarWinds NPM | AI-driven performance tracking | Complex networks | $2,995/license | 4.2/5 |
| ManageEngine OpManager | Traffic analysis, IP management | Budget-conscious SMEs | $1,995/license | 4.8/5 |
| PRTG Network Monitor | Sensor-based monitoring | Flexible scaling | $2,149/year | 4.0/5 |
| Auvik | Automated network mapping | Diverse infrastructures | Custom pricing | 4.5/5 |
| Datadog | Unified cloud monitoring | Cloud-focused businesses | $15/host/month | 4.1/5 |
| Domotz | Hardware and topology monitoring | IT service providers | $20/user/month + $25 base | 4.3/5 |
| Site24x7 | Global real-time checks | Affordable cloud monitoring | $9/month | 4.4/5 |
Key Takeaway:
Choose a tool based on your network size, budget, and future growth needs. For simplicity and affordability, Site24x7 and ManageEngine OpManager are great options. If you need advanced analytics, consider Datadog or Auvik. Test free trials to find the best fit for your setup.
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What is Network Monitoring?
Network monitoring is the process of keeping a close eye on a network’s performance, security, and overall health. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it acts like a vigilant digital guard, constantly observing network activities, spotting potential problems, and ensuring IT systems run smoothly.
Today’s tools offer much more than just checking if systems are online. They provide features like real-time mapping, bandwidth tracking, and even threat detection. In fact, recent data shows that businesses using network monitoring tools face 45% fewer unexpected downtimes compared to those without such systems.
Here are three key functions of network monitoring tools:
- Real-time Performance Tracking: Monitors network metrics, bandwidth usage, and the status of connected devices around the clock.
- Automated Alerts: Sends instant notifications when issues occur or performance thresholds are exceeded.
- Network Mapping: Creates a visual layout of the network’s infrastructure and connections.
"The integration of AI and machine learning in network monitoring has transformed how SMEs manage their networks. What used to require a team of IT specialists can now be automated and managed more efficiently", explains Mario Peshev, highlighting the advancements in this field.
Cloud-based tools like Auvik and Datadog have made network monitoring more accessible and budget-friendly, especially for SMEs. These tools are designed to catch potential issues early, with proactive monitoring identifying 70% of network problems before they disrupt operations.
For SMEs looking to adopt network monitoring, it’s important to set clear performance benchmarks, automate alerts, carry out regular system checks, and choose solutions that can grow with their needs. This approach not only keeps operations running efficiently but also helps guard against increasingly complex cybersecurity risks.
Now, let’s dive into some of the best network monitoring tools created specifically for SMEs.
How to Choose a Network Monitoring Tool
Picking the right network monitoring tool for your SME requires a thoughtful approach. It’s not just about finding a tool – it’s about finding the right tool that fits your business needs and keeps your IT operations running smoothly.
Start by identifying your specific network monitoring needs. Think about your network’s size, complexity, and the devices you need to monitor. This will help you zero in on tools that actually meet your requirements, instead of wasting money on extra features you don’t need.
Most tools come with tiered pricing options, ranging from free basic solutions for smaller networks to advanced tools that can cost $500 or more per month for more complex setups. But don’t let price alone guide your decision. Consider how easily the tool can scale with your business and how well it integrates with your existing systems. For many SMEs, cloud-based solutions are appealing because they’re easier to deploy and can grow with your business.
Ease of use is another key factor. Look at how simple the tool is to set up and operate daily. Seek out tools with user-friendly interfaces and clear documentation. Many providers offer free trials, so take advantage of those to see how the tool performs in your environment.
"The integration of network monitoring with broader IT service management practices has become a crucial consideration for SMEs looking to streamline their operations", according to a recent industry analysis. This underscores the importance of choosing tools that work seamlessly with your current systems.
Don’t overlook the importance of actionable insights. A good monitoring tool should provide reports that align with your business goals. Many modern tools now include AI and machine learning features, offering predictive analytics to spot potential problems before they disrupt your operations. In fact, studies show that AI-driven alerts can cut network downtime by up to 45%.
Lastly, ensure the tool offers reliable support and training, especially as networks become more complex. For example, platforms like Datadog are a great choice for industries with strict regulations, thanks to their strong security features and compliance capabilities. Having dependable support can make all the difference as your business grows.
1. SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor is a reliable choice for small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that need detailed network monitoring without unnecessary complexity. Its user-friendly dashboard provides clear insights into key metrics like bandwidth usage, latency, and packet loss. This makes it easier for IT teams to detect and resolve issues before they disrupt operations.
Pricing starts at $2,995 for the SL100 license, which covers up to 100 elements. This makes it a budget-conscious option for SMEs while still offering advanced features. The platform is easy to set up, thanks to its automatic device discovery and instant monitoring capabilities, and it scales well to meet future needs.
Industries like technology, healthcare, and financial services – especially those handling sensitive data – will find SolarWinds particularly useful. The tool leverages AI and machine learning to predict and address potential network issues. By identifying patterns and irregularities, it allows IT teams to take a proactive approach to network management.
"The integration capabilities of SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor with other IT management tools make it a cornerstone solution for SMEs looking to build a comprehensive monitoring strategy", according to the official product documentation.
The platform also uses smart thresholds to send alerts only for critical issues, helping IT teams avoid notification overload. This ensures that important problems get the attention they need without causing unnecessary distractions.
For businesses that require detailed performance records, the reporting feature is a standout. It generates customizable reports on historical trends, capacity usage, and potential bottlenecks. These reports are especially useful for planning future upgrades and justifying budgets.
If you’re an SME looking for a scalable and easy-to-use monitoring tool, SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor is worth considering. Next, let’s take a look at another option: ManageEngine OpManager.
2. ManageEngine OpManager
ManageEngine OpManager is a network monitoring tool designed to give small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) a clear view of their network infrastructure. It provides real-time monitoring for devices, servers, and applications through an easy-to-use dashboard. With features like automated device discovery and support for both physical and virtual setups, OpManager is especially useful for hybrid environments, making the initial setup straightforward.
Compared to SolarWinds, OpManager offers a simpler interface while keeping a solid set of monitoring tools. Pricing starts at $1,995 for up to 50 devices, making it an affordable option for smaller organizations.
IT teams can set custom thresholds for network metrics and get instant alerts when something goes wrong. This helps prevent downtime and keeps business operations running smoothly. As SMEs grow, OpManager can scale with them, offering additional features like bandwidth analysis, configuration management, and IP address management.
The platform also provides performance analysis and detailed reports that help track network health, spot trends, and plan for future capacity needs. These reports can be automated and scheduled, saving IT staff time and effort.
For those worried about the complexity of implementation, OpManager offers a free trial so businesses can test its features and make sure it fits their needs before committing. Its trial period, combined with a user-friendly design, makes it a strong choice for SMEs with limited IT resources.
Additionally, OpManager can integrate with other ManageEngine tools, creating an all-in-one IT management system that evolves as your business grows.
Next, we’ll take a closer look at PRTG Network Monitor, another option worth considering for SMEs.
3. PRTG Network Monitor
PRTG Network Monitor is a flexible tool that combines powerful features with ease of use. Its sensor-based system lets you monitor specific elements of your network, from basic ping checks to detailed database queries. This approach makes it a practical choice for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) with limited technical teams.
The platform starts with a free version that includes 100 sensors, giving businesses a chance to test its features. Paid plans begin at $2,149 per year for 500 sensors. This pricing structure allows businesses to buy only what they need, making it a smart option for industries like retail, healthcare, and professional services, where stable networks are critical.
PRTG simplifies setup with an automated device discovery feature that recommends the right sensors for your system. It also has a built-in alert system that notifies IT teams through various channels when issues arise, helping ensure problems are addressed quickly. The platform’s reporting tools provide detailed performance data, all accessible through a straightforward dashboard.
For businesses expecting growth, PRTG makes it easy to scale. You can add more sensors and expand monitoring without disrupting your current setup. Its clear licensing structure also helps businesses budget effectively, avoiding surprise costs while ensuring reliable network performance.
"PRTG Network Monitor provides enterprise-level monitoring capabilities in a package that’s accessible to smaller organizations. Its sensor-based pricing model allows businesses to start small and scale up as needed, making it a cost-effective solution for growing SMEs."
Next, we’ll take a look at Auvik, a cloud-based tool designed to simplify network management.
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4. Auvik
Auvik is a cloud-based network monitoring tool designed to make network management easier, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). Its standout feature is automated network discovery, which quickly maps your network and documents inventory without manual effort. This is especially helpful for SMEs with smaller IT teams or limited technical expertise.
The platform’s TrafficInsights feature goes beyond basic NetFlow data, providing deeper insights into traffic patterns and application usage. This helps IT teams identify and fix bottlenecks more efficiently. Auvik supports a wide range of devices by using standard protocols like SNMP, NetFlow, and sFlow, ensuring compatibility with most existing setups.
When it comes to security, Auvik offers features like single sign-on (SSO), two-factor authentication, and detailed audit logs. It also integrates smoothly with popular IT service desk tools like ServiceNow, making it easier to manage network alerts and support tickets in one place.
Setting up Auvik is straightforward. It uses a lightweight collector that can be installed either on-premises or in the cloud. While pricing details aren’t publicly available, Auvik provides two plan options: the Essentials plan, ideal for smaller networks with basic monitoring needs, and the Performance plan, which is geared toward businesses requiring more detailed analytics and advanced tools.
"Auvik’s automated network discovery and TrafficInsights capabilities make it an intelligent choice for SMEs looking to simplify their network monitoring while maintaining enterprise-grade visibility and control."
For businesses managing distributed networks or preparing to scale, Auvik’s architecture supports growth without sacrificing performance or requiring major changes. Its remote network access tools, including an integrated terminal and tunneling client, allow secure troubleshooting from anywhere, making it a great fit for teams overseeing remote or multi-location networks.
Up next, we’ll take a closer look at Datadog, a platform known for its advanced analytics and cloud-native features.
5. Datadog
Datadog is a cloud-based network monitoring platform designed to offer clear insights into network performance, security, and compliance – all from a single dashboard. It’s especially useful for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aiming to grow, thanks to its ability to handle increasing demands without missing a beat.
One of Datadog’s standout features is its smart alerting system. Teams can create custom performance thresholds, ensuring they’re notified when it matters most. This helps reduce unnecessary alerts while still catching critical issues that need immediate attention.
The platform also simplifies compliance reporting and auditing, which is a big help for smaller IT teams juggling multiple responsibilities. It ensures regulatory standards are met while saving time.
"Datadog’s unified platform approach simplifies network monitoring while maintaining enterprise-grade capabilities, making it an ideal solution for SMEs looking to scale their operations efficiently."
Another plus is Datadog’s cloud-native design, which means there’s no need for on-premises hardware. It integrates seamlessly with widely-used IT tools and cloud services, making deployment and scaling straightforward.
Datadog uses a host-based pricing model, with costs increasing based on the number of devices monitored. While exact pricing isn’t readily available, the platform does offer a free trial, allowing SMEs to test its features before committing.
For businesses that need a more hardware-centered solution, Domotz might be worth exploring as it caters to specific operational requirements.
6. Domotz
Domotz is a cloud-based network monitoring tool designed with small-to-medium businesses (SMEs) and managed service providers in mind. Its standout feature is automated device discovery, which eliminates the hassle of manual network setup – a big plus for businesses with limited IT resources.
To get started, you’ll need to install an agent on a computer within your network. This agent acts as the central hub, collecting and transmitting network data. Once set up, Domotz allows you to monitor your network in real time through any standard browser. Pricing begins at $20 per user per month (billed annually), plus a $25 monthly base fee. This straightforward pricing model helps SMEs keep costs under control while staying on top of their network performance.
"Domotz’s automated device discovery and real-time monitoring capabilities make it an ideal solution for SMEs looking to maintain network visibility without extensive IT infrastructure", states the platform’s technical documentation.
Domotz integrates seamlessly with a variety of third-party tools, making it adaptable to different network setups. For companies managing multiple clients or locations, the platform’s multi-tenant support allows centralized management across departments or clients.
It also keeps detailed hardware inventories and monitors live device activity. Unlike Datadog, which is heavily focused on cloud environments, Domotz delivers more extensive hardware monitoring. This makes it especially useful for businesses with a significant on-premises infrastructure.
Next up, we’ll dive into Site24x7, a tool that brings together monitoring for networks, servers, and applications.
7. Site24x7
Site24x7, developed by Zoho Corporation, provides small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) with enterprise-level network monitoring in a straightforward package. It performs real-time checks from over 90 global locations and tracks more than 60 performance metrics, delivering a clear picture of network health.
Pricing is designed to fit SME budgets, starting with the Starter Plan at $9 per month for 10 monitors (billed annually) and scaling up to the Pro Plan at $35 per month for 40 monitors. To help businesses explore its features, Site24x7 offers a 30-day free trial, giving teams the chance to see how it performs in their unique setup.
"Site24x7’s minute-by-minute monitoring from 90+ worldwide locations ensures SMEs can maintain the same level of network visibility as larger enterprises", states Zoho Corporation’s technical documentation.
Unlike tools like Domotz or Auvik that rely on on-premises hardware, Site24x7 is entirely cloud-based. Beyond network monitoring, it also covers servers and applications, with customizable alerts that help teams address issues quickly.
With its flexible pricing and cloud-first approach, Site24x7 stands out as a practical and powerful option for SMEs looking for reliable network monitoring.
Comparison Table
Here’s a quick look at some of the top network monitoring tools, tailored for SMEs. The table highlights key features, pricing, and ease of use to help you decide. The Ease of Use score (1-5) reflects how intuitive the interface is, how simple the setup process feels, and how steep the learning curve might be.
| Tool | Core Features | Best For | Starting Price | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Site24x7 | Monitors from 90+ global locations, tracks 60+ metrics | Cloud-based monitoring needs | $9/month | 4.4/5 |
| Datadog | Real-time network analysis, cloud infrastructure monitoring | Cloud-focused businesses | $15/host/month | 4.1/5 |
| ManageEngine OpManager | Traffic analysis, firewall and IP management | SMEs on a budget needing robust monitoring | $20/user/month | 4.8/5 |
| PRTG Network Monitor | SNMP monitoring, packet sniffing, WMI support | Tech teams needing deep insights | $2,149/year | 4.0/5 |
| SolarWinds NPM | Network performance tracking, fault management | Mid-sized enterprises with complex requirements | Custom pricing – contact sales | 4.2/5 |
| Auvik | Supports 700+ vendors, offers detailed network mapping | Businesses with diverse infrastructures | Custom pricing – contact sales | 4.5/5 |
| Domotz | Remote monitoring, topology mapping | IT service providers and MSPs | Custom pricing – contact sales | 4.3/5 |
"The adoption of cloud-based network monitoring tools has increased by 47% among SMEs in the past year, with solutions like Auvik and Site24x7 leading the charge due to their combination of enterprise features and SME-friendly pricing", according to LogicMonitor’s 2024 Network Monitoring Trends Report.
If you’re looking for affordability and strong features, ManageEngine OpManager is an excellent pick for growing SMEs. Auvik, with its support for over 15,000 devices across 700+ vendors, is a top contender for businesses managing diverse networks.
For cloud-focused SMEs, Datadog’s SaaS model delivers great value. On the other hand, Site24x7 starts at just $9/month and includes a 30-day free trial, making it an affordable yet powerful option.
While PRTG Network Monitor has a higher upfront cost, it includes unlimited sensors after the first year, making it a scalable choice for businesses planning for growth.
The best tool for you will depend on your network’s complexity, your budget, and where your business is headed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right network monitoring tool is essential for SMEs aiming to maintain strong network performance while keeping costs under control. To make the best decision, focus on these three key factors:
- Scalability: Pick a tool that can grow with your business. For example, PRTG Network Monitor offers unlimited sensors after the first year, making it a great option for expanding companies.
- Integration Options: Consider tools like Auvik, which supports over 700 vendors and simplifies IT workflows through broad integration capabilities.
- Budget Compatibility: Whether it’s Site24x7 starting at $9/month or more advanced enterprise-level solutions, there are options to fit every budget.
For SMEs that value easy setup and comprehensive features, cloud-based tools like Auvik and ManageEngine OpManager stand out. These solutions are user-friendly, with ease-of-use ratings of 4.5/5 and 4.4/5, respectively. Plus, most providers offer free trials, so you can test their functionality and compatibility before committing.
"AI-powered monitoring has revolutionized SME network management, enabling predictive analytics and proactive issue resolution at a fraction of the traditional cost", states LogicMonitor’s 2024 Network Monitoring Trends Report.
This underscores the importance of choosing tools that meet both current requirements and future technological advancements. Whether you go for all-in-one solutions like ManageEngine OpManager or specialized tools tailored to specific network setups, your choice should align with your network’s complexity, your team’s expertise, and your long-term goals.
Focus on finding a tool that balances features, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness for your needs. A well-chosen, scalable solution ensures your investment delivers value over time.
FAQs
Which is the most common tool used for network monitoring?
With so many tools out there, SMEs often ask which one stands out as the most widely used – and why. In 2024, Datadog has gained a lot of attention, especially for its ability to monitor networks effectively while being cloud-friendly. Its AI-powered insights and smooth integration with cloud services make it a go-to option for SMEs moving toward digital solutions.
That said, the best tool for your business depends on your specific needs and setup. Cloud-based options are quickly becoming the standard. Tools like Datadog and Site24x7, for example, have seen a 45% rise in adoption among SMEs since 2023. Their scalability and easy setup make them appealing choices for businesses looking for low-maintenance solutions.
If you’re exploring network monitoring tools, here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Whether you prefer cloud-based or on-premise solutions
- The range of monitoring features you need
- The technical expertise of your team
- Budget limitations
- How well the tool integrates with your existing systems
Choosing the right tool also depends on how complex your network is and the skill level of your team. For SMEs just starting to adopt digital tools, working with a tech advisor can help you pick a solution that matches your current needs and future plans.
