Monitoring your bandwidth in your network is crucial to understanding what is going on in your perimeter.
Many times you can catch malicious behavior and programs that have made their way into your network unbeknownst to you or your network monitoring systems.
Here is our list of the top bandwidth monitoring tools:
- ManageEngine Netflow Analyzer – EDITOR’S CHOICE This software package provides network traffic monitoring that includes live reports and capacity planning features. Installs on Windows Server and Linux. Get a 30-day free trial.
- Site24x7 Network Monitoring – FREE TRIAL A SaaS package that provides network statistics gathering for traffic analysis and also provides support for traffic shaping. Start the 30-day free trial.
- Paessler PRTG Network Monitor – FREE TRIAL This bundle of monitoring tools includes sensors that can capture packets, query network devices, and identify traffic flows. Runs on Windows Server. Download a 30-day free trial.
- Networx A lightweight monitoring tool that examines the network connections of its host. Runs on Windows, Windows Server, and macOS.
- SolarWinds Network Bandwidth Analyzer Pack This bundle of on-premises monitoring software includes network device status checks, automated network discovery and mapping, plus traffic analysis. Runs on Windows Server.
- Bitmeter II A free, lightweight tool that scans network connections and shows a live display of traffic throughput. Runs on Windows
- Bandwidth Monitor This network monitor for PCs will examine the performance of the networks to which the device is connected and can also query the local router. Runs on Windows.
Methodology for selecting the Best Bandwidth Monitoring Software
Bandwidth monitoring software is an essential tool for any business or organization that needs to track and manage its network traffic. It helps organizations identify potential threats, monitor usage, prevent data theft, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. It also allows users to optimize network performance by identifying bottlenecks, improving bandwidth utilization, and reducing latency. With the right bandwidth monitoring software, businesses can get a better understanding of how their networks are being used and take steps to improve efficiency.
The software helps calculate how much available capacity of network equipment is used by traffic. When selecting the best bandwidth monitoring software, it is important to consider a number of factors in order to make an informed decision. These factors include the type of network being monitored, the size of the network, the cost associated with using the software and its features, as well as its ease of use.
Additionally, it is important to consider whether or not the software can be integrated into existing systems and if any additional hardware or software is needed for its operation. By taking all these factors into account, businesses can ensure that they select a monitoring solution that meets their specific requirements and provides them with accurate data about their networks. We have selected some of the best bandwidth monitoring software based on different criteria that one must take into consideration when selecting a tool for their organization.
- Check if the selected tools allow using traffic sampling protocols like NetFlow
- Does the tool offer alert options that instantly notify on reaching full capacity?
- What techniques are available for traffic shaping?
- Can a user upgrade to the comprehensive paid plan?
- For capacity planning, does it support traffic analysis tools?
- Can you monitor traffic from point to point?
- Can you view traffic per link?
- Does it support time-series maps that display traffic volume?
- Check if it operates with both IPv4 and IPv6 addresses.
With the right solution, you can save time and effort in discovering issues. So, follow our methodologies when selecting bandwidth monitoring software from the available options in the market.
The Top Bandwidth Monitoring Tools
What should you look for in bandwidth monitoring tools?
We reviewed the market for bandwidth monitoring software for tracking network usage and analyzed options based on the following criteria:
- The ability to communicate with switches using NetFlow and similar protocols
- Identification of traffic bottlenecks
- Network capacity planning assistance
- Traffic shaping measures
- End-to-end path analysis
- A free trial for a no-cost assessment opportunity
- Value for money from a network monitoring tool that offers competent service at a reasonable price
With these selection criteria in mind, we tracked down the best tools for bandwidth analysis that provide automated monitoring mechanisms to save you money.
1. ManageEngine Netflow Analyzer – FREE TRIAL
ManageEngine Netflow Analyzer is great for Network/Internet Bandwidth and Traffic monitoring that provides a real-time view into any Netflow, Sflow, jFlow, IPFIX and SNMP devices on your network on a device or interface level.
Key Features
- NetFlow, sFlow, J-Flow, AppFlow, Netstream, and IPFIX
- Examines each network device
- Extracts data once a minute
- IP SLA monitoring
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine Netflow Analyzer stands out as a holistic tool for detailed network bandwidth and traffic monitoring. It delves deep, providing insights not just into traffic volume and bandwidth, but also into the type of traffic, allowing network administrators to make better decisions.
The administrator can use this service to identify links that are approaching full capacity. If more traffic arrives at an interface than that port’s capacity, packets will be dropped, so the alerts of the NetFlow Analyzer allow technicians time to head off possible packet loss. The package can also produce quality of service statistics, such as IP SLA and the Mean Opinion Score (MOS).
Bandwidth utilization is tracked and recorded to view upload/download speeds and overall utilization.
The main features of this software include its Agentless design, historical usage trends and graphs, threshold alerting based on predetermined values (that are customizable), the ability to monitor Speed/Packets/Volume and Bandwidth. This tool has the ability to export bandwidth reports to XLS as well. Get a 30-day free trial.
Who is it recommended for?
It is ideal for network administrators, IT managers, and IT teams in enterprises that require a comprehensive understanding of their network traffic patterns. Organizations that want insights into their bandwidth utilization, especially if they rely heavily on VoIP or video conferencing, will find this tool invaluable.
Pros:
- Traffic prioritization for VoIP and interactive video
- Capacity analysis and forecasting
- Alerts for traffic pattern anomalies
- Traffic shaping measures
Cons:
- Not a SaaS platform
Download a 30-day free trial.
EDITOR'S CHOICE
ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer is our top pick for bandwidth monitoring software for tracking network usage because this package will discover and document all of your network devices. The package has a number of methods to extract traffic volume data from switches and routers. The service records the data throughput both in and out for each interface. The system is able to communicate with devices using the flow protocols: NetFlow, IPFIX, J-Flow, and sFlow. The package has another method for examining traffic, which is a packet sniffer. This service is able to break down traffic protocols per protocol. With that data, you can plan the network to serve urgent protocols better. Examples of these time-sensitive systems include video streaming and VoIP. You will be able to implement queuing to prioritize specific applications. The tool lets you specify performance thresholds for any of the metrics that it gathers. These will trigger alerts if crossed and you can get those forwarded to your technicians by email or SMS.
Download: Download the 30-day FREE Trial
Official Site: https://www.manageengine.com/products/netflow/download.html
OS: Windows Server, Linux, and AWS
Related Post: Best IP Monitor Software & Tools
2. Site24x7 Network Monitoring – FREE TRIAL
Site24x7 Network Monitoring is a module on a cloud platform of system monitoring tools. This service uses SNMP to discover all of the devices on a network and then continuously monitors their statuses. The package creates a network inventory and topology map.
Key Features
- Device discovery, inventory, and network mapping
- NetFlow, sFlow, J-Flow, CFlow, IPFIX, AppFlow, and NetStream
- VoIP QoS tracking
- Full stack monitoring
Why do we recommend it?
Site24x7 Network Monitoring is a cloud-based bandwidth monitoring solution designed to cater to the dynamic needs of network administrators. It offers various features, from simple device discovery and network mapping to advanced VoIP QoS tracking and full-stack monitoring. Being cloud-based means no hefty infrastructural costs or maintenance hassles for businesses, making it a popular choice for many administrators.
The package is able to communicate with network devices of any brand, thanks to its capabilities in multiple statists protocols. The system will also show IP SLA and MOS values for VoIP quality of service tracking. The full package of a Site24x7 subscription also gives you server and application monitoring and there are plans that include log management or website monitoring.
Who is it recommended for?
Site24x7 is ideal for businesses of all sizes, especially those that want an all-in-one solution without the need to manage on-premises hardware. IT managers, network admins, and operational teams that are looking for a reliable, cloud-based network monitoring solution will benefit the most.
Pros:
- Network capacity planning support
- Alerts for performance problems
- Root cause analysis
Cons:
- No system management functions
You can try any Site24x7 plan with a 30-day free trial.
3. Paessler PRTG – FREE TRIAL
Paessler PRTG is a well-known network monitoring solution as well and also provides a nice little utility for monitoring traffic within your network.
Key Features:
- On-premises or SaaS
- NetFlow, sFlow, J-Flow, and IPFIX
- Capacity planning
The tool allows you to monitor up to 100 sensors for FREE with no extra charge, with the ability to buy more sensors as needed from there.
Pros:
- Spots traffic anomalies
- Raises alerts for performance problems
- Path analysis and demand forecasting
Cons:
- You need to choose from a large library of functions
Start by downloading a 30-day free trial.
4. Networx
Networx utility is geared towards individual desktop monitoring rather than remote tracking of bandwidth like the others mentioned in this post.
Key Features
- Single device monitoring
- Runs on Windows and macOS
- Listens to the network interface
Why do we recommend it?
Networx is ideal for individuals or professionals looking to keep a close eye on their personal device’s bandwidth consumption. Its user-friendly interface and a rich set of features tailored for individual PCs make it ideal for single-device monitoring. It provides a clear and organized view of how much bandwidth is being consumed, thereby aiding users in identifying any abnormal activity or tracking down potentially bandwidth-hungry applications.
If you want to monitor the bandwidth on your own PC or Desktop, then grab this tool and install it locally. It provides nice graphs of Speed, Usage and Quotas on a daily basis, as well as download speeds.
Who is it recommended for?
Networx is perfect for freelancers, remote workers, gamers, or any individual wanting to monitor and manage their device’s internet usage. It’s also ideal for those who have bandwidth caps set by their ISPs and need to check their consumption.
Pros:
- Network activity reports
- Speed tests on demand or on a schedule
- File transfer tracking
Cons:
- Only monitors the device on which it is installed
5. SolarWinds Network Bandwidth Analyzer Pack
SolarWinds Network Bandwidth Analyzer Pack solves the problem that most network monitors face when looking for a network monitor – do you want a network performance monitor or a network traffic monitor? This package offers both. The pack provides the SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor and the NetFlow Traffic Analyzer.
Key Features
- Network device monitoring
- Traffic pattern analysis
- Path analysis
- Protocol analysis
- SNMP reports
Why do we recommend it?
SolarWinds Network Bandwidth Analyzer Pack (NBA Pack) combines the power of SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) and NetFlow Traffic Analyzer (NTA). This pair of platforms maps out your network for you and gives you deep insights into traffic patterns and bandwidth consumption. It allows IT admins to troubleshoot network problems efficiently by highlighting the main culprits of bandwidth hogging or performance issues.
The Network Performance Monitor searches the network and documents all devices. It then draws up a network map. The NetFlow Traffic Analyzer puts flesh on that frame by providing ongoing traffic volume tracking.
Who is it recommended for?
The NBA Pack is recommended for IT administrators, network managers, and network engineers responsible for maintaining their networks’ smooth operation. Businesses that are keen on real-time monitoring and proactive management of their network would benefit the most from this.
Pros:
- Identifies bandwidth hogs
- Shows bandwidth usage per application and per endpoint
- Records response times and packet loss
- Ping and Traceroute
- Alerts for performance problems
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer cloud performance monitoring
These two packages combine to provide systems to monitor every aspect of your network. The systems integrate into a common interface and the software runs on Windows Server. SolarWinds offers the Network Bandwidth Analyzer Pack for a 30-day free trial.
6. Bitmeter II
Similar to the Networx software from above, BitMeter 2 gives you the ability to visually graph and track your internet connection on your own computer.
Key Features
- Tracks internet performance
- Time-series graphs
- Free to use
Why do we recommend it?
BitMeter 2 offers an intuitive and visually appealing method to monitor internet speed and usage. Its user-friendly interface, combined with real-time graphs, allows users to understand their bandwidth consumption at a glance. For those who prefer visual data representations, BitMeter 2’s colorful and dynamic charts provide a rapid understanding of upload and download speeds.
Different colors represent wither Upload or Download speeds which update every second. You also have the ability to view Statistical information based on Hours, Days or Weeks.
Who is it recommended for?
BitMeter 2 is best suited for individuals who need a straightforward tool to monitor their personal computer’s internet usage. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone curious about your daily internet consumption patterns, BitMeter 2 will serve you well.
Pros:
- Captures live internet performance statistics
- Displays live activity in graphs
- Stores metrics for historical analysis
Cons:
- Only monitors the internet for the computer it is installed on
7. Bandwidth Monitor
As many of the other utilities/tools mentioned here, BWMonitor tracks bandwidth only on the computer you install it on – instead of multiple computers as SolarWinds, Paessler PRTG and ManageEngine. BWMonitor features include a “speed stopwatch”, transfer speed/rate recorder and usage notifications.
Key Features
- Network interface performance
- Usage warnings
- Bit rate monitor
Why do we recommend it?
BWMonitor is a dedicated bandwidth monitoring tool that’s easy to use and comes with functionalities tailored for real-time tracking. Its simple interface combined with efficient data presentation ensures that users get a quick overview of their internet consumption. The inclusion of features like a “speed stopwatch” and transfer rate recorder provides granular details that can be useful for those needing to track specific activities or tasks.
It works with all the major releases of Windows including Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows 2003, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.
Who is it recommended for?
BWMonitor is ideal for individuals who want a straightforward monitoring tool for their personal device. This can include professionals working from home, students, gamers, or anyone interested in tracking their bandwidth consumption on a single machine.
Pros:
- Graphs for download and upload speeds
- Monitors Ethernet connections and wireless networks
- Compiles cumulative network usage statistics
Cons:
- Only monitors the connections of the device it is installed on
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