Network Monitoring Software by Intermapper

Network monitoring involves continuous surveilling computer networks to detect issues like slow traffic or component failure and alerting administrators to prevent disruptions and prolonged downtime.

Its primary use is to identify potential performance issues and bottlenecks before they occur. Human error and configuration issues often lead to minor performance problems that escalate into network outages. A lack of network visibility is another dangerous side effect of absent monitoring. A Forrester survey indicated that 81% of IT leaders believe network visibility is essential for strong network security and response.

Network monitoring software sends requests and queries to network devices assets and reports on the results. Every NMS uses a different way of querying devices, but regardless of whether that’s Ping, ICMP, or SNMP, all communications are protocol based. When querying devices, the NMS requests information using management information base (MIBS) or object identifiers (OID) to retrieve distinct metrics that support performance data. The NMS presents this information via the software’s interface.

Optimizing any network starts with establishing performance baselines. This helps determine which protocols or infrastructure to adjust to maintain optimal performance. Understanding behaviors of devices and ensuring they’re not reaching certain thresholds or alarms helps the operator maximize information and understand the network’s needs.

For troubleshooting, whether it's a configuration error or abnormal traffic fluctuation, network monitoring software helps you quickly resolve issues. Live network maps show problem origins, and status windows provide performance metrics over time. Network automation tools help you identify and fix problems automatically, without human involvement.

You can monitor your network traffic using tools like Wireshark, NetFlow, or built-in features in your router or operating system. These tools allow you to track data usage, identify connected devices, and analyze traffic patterns. Always ensure you follow privacy laws and guidelines when monitoring network activity. Intermapper is the best solution for comprehensive network monitoring, providing real-time insights and easy-to-use features.

Microsoft offers network monitoring tools like Azure Network Watcher and Windows Performance Monitor, which provide basic capabilities for tracking network performance and diagnostics. For a more robust and feature-rich solution, Intermapper stands out with real-time mapping, customizable alerts, and support for diverse network environments.

Intermapper can monitor any device that supports IP technology and is currently broadcasting. Intermapper sends out requests and queries based on IP technology, so if the device does in fact support IP technology, then Intermapper will be able to find, map, and monitor it.

Most people start by downloading a free trial of Intermapper. Deploying Intermapper’s free trial is straightforward and intuitive, taking just minutes and requiring only the IP addresses to monitor. You can then make modifications based on your preferences, baselines, and specific measurements. If you purchase an Intermapper license, you can keep everything from the trial version.

Intermapper’s licensing structure is different from other monitoring solutions in that it is straightforward and based on the number of IPs to monitor rather than the functions and sensors available.