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Home > Reviews > The Ultimate Guide to SNMP Grapher Tools: Top 10 Solutions Compared
November 11, 2024
The ability to effectively monitor, analyze, and visualize network performance is crucial for IT professionals. Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) grapher tools (also known as graphing tools) have become essential instruments in the network administrator’s toolkit, providing vital insights into network behavior, performance metrics, and potential issues before they impact business operations.
As networks continue to grow in both size and complexity, organizations need reliable management tools to transform raw SNMP data into meaningful, actionable insights. This comprehensive guide explores the top 10 SNMP graphing tools (including some free tools) available in the market today, helping you make an informed decision about which solution best fits your organization’s needs.
We’ll begin by addressing fundamental questions about SNMP and grapher tools, including their purpose, benefits, and key features to consider. Then, we’ll dive deep into detailed reviews of each tool, examining their strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases.
Whether you’re managing a small business network or overseeing enterprise-level infrastructure, this guide will help you navigate the selection process and find the right SNMP graphing solution for your specific requirements. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the available options and be better equipped to choose a tool that aligns with your technical needs, budget constraints, and organizational goals.
The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a standardized networking protocol used to monitor and manage network devices across an IP network. It’s basically a common language that allows network administrators to keep track of network-connected devices like routers, switches, servers, printers, and more.
SNMP works by collecting information from devices and either storing it for later analysis or enabling administrators to modify device settings. Think of it as a universal remote control for your network devices, combined with a way to gather important information about how those devices are performing.
SNMP has evolved through several versions over time, with each iteration bringing important security and functionality improvements. The three main versions you’ll encounter are SNMPv1, SNMPv2c, and SNMPv3, each with distinct characteristics and use cases.
SNMPv1, the original version, is the simplest and most basic. While it’s still found in older networks and devices, its security is quite limited, relying only on a “community string” that’s essentially a password transmitted in plain text. Think of it as using a simple key to unlock a door: anyone who can see the key can copy it. Despite its age and security limitations, you might still encounter it in legacy systems or simple monitoring scenarios where security isn’t a major concern.
SNMPv2c is probably the most widely used version today. It maintains the same security model as v1 but adds several important functional improvements, including better error handling and more efficient data retrieval through bulk transfers. It’s like SNMPv1’s smarter sibling: it does the same basic job but more efficiently. Many organizations still use v2c because it strikes a good balance between functionality and simplicity.
SNMPv3 represents the most secure and sophisticated version, introducing proper authentication and encryption. It’s like upgrading from a simple key to a modern security system with multiple authentication factors and encrypted communications. While it’s the most secure option and technically superior, its complexity and processing overhead mean it’s not as widely deployed as v2c, though it’s becoming increasingly common in security-conscious environments.
In practice, many networks run a mix of versions. You might see SNMPv2c used for internal monitoring of less critical systems, while SNMPv3 is deployed for managing critical infrastructure or when data needs to traverse untrusted networks. The choice often comes down to balancing security requirements against operational simplicity and legacy system support.
SNMP grapher tools are specialized monitoring software that collect network performance data using SNMP and present it in visual, easy-to-understand formats. They’re like your network’s historian, keeping track of everything from bandwidth usage to CPU load, and turning all that data into meaningful graphs and charts.
These tools continuously collect data from your network devices, store it in a database, and create visual representations that help you understand performance trends over time.
While SNMP Graphing Tools and SNMP Monitoring Tools may seem similar and often have overlapping features, they serve different primary purposes. Graphing tools are mainly focused on historical data visualization, trend analysis, and long-term performance tracking. They excel at creating visual representations of network performance over time and storing historical data for analysis.
On the other hand, SNMP Monitoring Tools are designed primarily for real-time remote monitoring, notifications management, and immediate problem detection. They typically include comprehensive alerting systems, real-time status dashboards, and advanced event handling capabilities. While many tools combine both functions, as you will see, organizations might use specialized tools for each purpose to get the best results.
There are many reasons to invest in SNMP graphing tools. Here are five of them, in no particular order.
When selecting an SNMP Graphing tool, there are several critical features that should be at the top of your priority list. First and foremost, look for robust data collection capabilities: the tool should efficiently gather information from all your SNMP-enabled devices and handle various SNMP versions while maintaining good performance. This is the foundation of any good graphing tool.
The second essential feature is visualization flexibility. Your tool should offer various graph types and customization options, allowing you to create exactly the kind of visual representations you need. This includes the ability to adjust time scales, combine different metrics, and create custom templates for recurring reports.
Third, pay close attention to the tool’s data storage and retention capabilities. A good SNMP Graphing tool should efficiently store historical data while maintaining quick access to it. It should also allow you to set flexible retention policies and offer data export options for long-term archiving or analysis in other systems.
Fourth, consider the tool’s scalability and performance. It should handle your current network size with room to grow, and maintain good performance even as you add more devices and metrics. This includes efficient resource usage on both the server and network sides.
Finally, look for strong integration and automation capabilities. The tool should work well with your existing systems and allow you to automate routine tasks like report generation and data export. This includes features like API access, scheduling capabilities, and support for common authentication systems. Remember, while tools like Cacti and MRTG might excel in some of these areas, commercial solutions often provide more comprehensive coverage of all these features in a single package.
Paessler PRTG Network Monitor is a comprehensive network monitoring solution designed to provide real-time insights into the performance and health of IT infrastructures. It is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized organizations, offering a user-friendly interface that allows administrators to monitor various devices, including servers, routers, and switches, from a single platform.
PRTG includes a wide array of preconfigured SNMP sensors that enable the monitoring of device metrics such as bandwidth usage, CPU load, and memory statistics. The software supports SNMP versions 1, 2c, and 3, allowing for flexible deployment based on the security needs of the organization.
Additionally, PRTG’s auto-discovery feature simplifies the initial setup by automatically detecting SNMP-enabled devices within the network. Users can also create custom sensors using Object Identifiers (OIDs) from specific Management Information Bases (MIBs), enabling tailored monitoring solutions that cater to unique operational requirements.
Paessler PRTG Network Monitor is SaaS (Software as a Service), and licenses are available as three-year subscriptions with annual payments. The subscription model offers various tiers based on the number of sensors, which are the monitoring points that measure specific aspects of network devices or services.
For instance, the PRTG 500 license allows monitoring of up to 500 sensors, typically covering around 50 devices, while larger tiers like PRTG 10,000 can monitor up to 10,000 sensors. Additionally, there is a free version that allows monitoring of up to 100 sensors for those with limited needs.
Checkmk is an open-source IT monitoring solution that provides comprehensive visibility into network performance and health. It is designed to monitor servers, applications, and network devices in real time, making it suitable for diverse environments ranging from small businesses to large enterprises. Checkmk’s architecture allows for high scalability and flexibility, enabling users to customize their monitoring setup according to specific needs.
For SNMP graphing specifically, Checkmk offers a variety of built-in SNMP checks that allow users to monitor device performance metrics such as CPU usage, memory consumption, and perform network traffic analysis. The tool supports both SNMP v1 and v2c protocols, enabling effective data collection from a wide range of devices.
Users can easily create custom checks by defining specific OIDs from the MIB files associated with their devices. Additionally, Checkmk provides detailed visualizations through its dashboard, allowing administrators to analyze trends over time and quickly identify potential issues.
While Checkmk has numerous advantages for SNMP graphing, there are some drawbacks to consider. The open-source nature of Checkmk means that while it is cost-effective, users may need technical expertise to set up and maintain the system effectively. Additionally, while the web interface is generally user-friendly, navigating through advanced features may require some familiarity with IT monitoring concepts.
Checkmk utilizes a subscription-based licensing model with various editions tailored to different monitoring needs, including the free Checkmk Raw Edition, suitable for mid-sized infrastructures, and the paid Enterprise and Cloud Editions, which offer advanced features ideal for larger organizations. Licensing is based on the number of monitored services rather than hosts. Additionally, Checkmk provides a 30-day trial for its Cloud Edition.
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) is a powerful tool designed to help IT professionals manage and optimize their network infrastructure efficiently. It provides comprehensive visibility into network performance by monitoring various devices such as routers, gateways, switches, servers, and endpoints.
When it comes to SNMP graphing capabilities, SolarWinds NPM excels with its extensive toolkit. The software features an SNMP Scanner that automates device discovery and performs regular polling of SNMP MIBs to collect crucial performance metrics like availability and response times.
Additionally, NPM includes an SNMP trap receiver that alerts administrators immediately when significant events occur within the network. Users can also create custom monitors using OIDs tailored to their unique requirements.
SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor (NPM) utilizes a licensing model based on the number of monitored elements, specifically nodes, interfaces, and volumes, with various tiers that allow monitoring from 100 to virtually unlimited elements. The licensing options include both perpetual and subscription-based models. Additionally, NPM offers a free 30-day trial that gives users full access to its features.
Progress WhatsUp Gold is a comprehensive network monitoring solution designed to help IT professionals manage their networks effectively by providing real-time visibility into device performance and availability.
For SNMP graphing specifically, WhatsUp Gold offers robust capabilities that allow administrators to track key performance metrics across their network devices using SNMP polling methods. The software provides built-in templates for common device types, which facilitate quick setup for monitoring tasks such as bandwidth utilization or device health status. Additionally, WhatsUp Gold includes customizable dashboards where users can visualize collected data through graphs and charts tailored to their specific needs.
While WhatsUp Gold boasts many advantages for SNMP graphing, it does come with certain limitations. One potential downside is that some users may find the licensing structure complex or costly as they scale up their monitoring efforts across multiple devices or locations.
WhatsUp Gold features a licensing model that includes both a Free Edition, which allows monitoring of up to 10 devices at no cost, and paid versions that can be either perpetually licensed, for long-term use, or an annual subscription that includes ongoing support and updates. A fully functional free trial is also available for the paid versions, enabling users to explore the complete feature set before making a purchase decision.
Datadog is a cloud-based Network Management System (NMS) designed for modern applications and infrastructure management across dynamic environments like microservices and containerized applications. It provides comprehensive visibility into various aspects of IT operations including application performance monitoring (APM), log management, and infrastructure monitoring all within a single platform.
In terms of SNMP graphing functionality specifically tailored for network performance monitoring, Datadog offers built-in support for collecting data from SNMP-enabled devices such as routers and switches.
Users can set up custom dashboards that visualize key metrics related to device health and performance using graphs that reflect real-time data trends over time. Datadog also supports tagging mechanisms which allow users to categorize monitored entities based on various attributes, making it easier to filter data during analysis.
One significant concern about Datadog revolves around pricing, which can escalate quickly depending on usage volume, especially if organizations require extensive data retention policies or high-frequency polling intervals across numerous devices simultaneously.
Datadog’s pricing structure is based on several factors, including the number of hosts monitored, data volume ingested, and feature usage. It employs a tiered pricing model that includes various plans tailored to different monitoring needs, such as Free (but feature-limited), Pro and Enterprise options. A free trial allows users to test all features for 14 days at no cost.
LogicMonitor is a cloud-based infrastructure monitoring platform designed to provide real-time insights into performance across complex IT environments, including hybrid clouds and on-premises systems. It aims at delivering comprehensive visibility into both infrastructure components such as servers and networking devices along with application-level metrics, making it suitable for diverse organizational needs ranging from small businesses up through large enterprises.
LogicMonitor uses SNMP for collecting data from various types of devices. The platform automatically discovers these devices across your network, allowing you to monitor key performance indicators without requiring extensive manual configuration effort. Customizable dashboards enable users to visualize collected metrics easily through graphs and charts tailored according to specific operational requirements, enhancing overall situational awareness regarding device health status over time.
One major concern about LogicMonitor revolves around pricing, which can become quite steep depending on how many monitored entities you require, particularly if you need additional features beyond basic functionality.
LogicMonitor operates on a subscription-based licensing model, where pricing is determined by the number of monitored resources and features. It offers various plans tailored to different organizational needs, including options for both Pro and Enterprise editions. Additionally, LogicMonitor provides a free 14-day trial that grants full access to its platform.
Nagios is an open-source monitoring system widely recognized for its ability to track system health across various IT environments including networks, servers and applications, among others. Its flexible architecture allows it to be customized extensively, catering specifically towards unique organizational needs regardless of scale or complexity involved.
Nagios offers built-in plugins enabling users to monitor key metrics derived from Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)-enabled devices such as routers, switches and printers, among others. These plugins facilitate data collection regarding critical parameters, providing valuable insights necessary during troubleshooting efforts aimed at resolving any underlying issues impacting overall service delivery quality.
Nagios’ customizable dashboards allow administrators easy access to visual representations highlighting trends observed across collected datasets over time, improving situational awareness surrounding device health statuses.
However, there are certain Nagios limitations worth noting, particularly concerning ease-of-use factors associated with the initial setup, which might require technical expertise, especially if dealing with large-scale deployments involving multiple components spanning across several platforms.
Nagios is Open Source software and free to use. There is also a paid product, Nagios XI, which provides more extensive features and support for larger infrastructures. A 30-day free trial of this version is available.
Zabbix is a powerful open-source monitoring solution designed to track the performance and health of IT infrastructures, including networks, servers, and applications. It provides comprehensive visibility into system metrics, enabling organizations to detect and resolve issues proactively. Zabbix is particularly valued for its flexibility and scalability, making it suitable for both small businesses and large enterprises.
When it comes to SNMP graphing, Zabbix excels with its robust capabilities for collecting and visualizing SNMP metrics from a wide range of devices. It supports SNMP versions v1, v2c, and v3, allowing for compatibility with both legacy and modern equipment.
Zabbix provides pre-defined templates for popular network hardware vendors, facilitating quick setup for monitoring tasks. Additionally, it allows users to create custom graphs that aggregate data over specified time periods, enhancing the ability to analyze long-term trends and detect anomalies in network behavior.
Despite its strengths, Zabbix does have some drawbacks when it comes to SNMP graphing. The initial setup can be complex, particularly for organizations without prior experience in network monitoring solutions. While the flexibility of the platform is a significant advantage, it may also lead to a steep learning curve as users navigate through various configurations and customizations. Furthermore, while Zabbix is highly capable in terms of data collection and visualization, some users may find that its interface lacks the polish of commercial alternatives.
Zabbix operates under an open-source licensing model, which means it is free to use without any hidden costs or limitations on features. The open-source nature of Zabbix also allows for community contributions and support, further enhancing its capabilities over time as users share templates and best practices within the Zabbix community.
NetCrunch is a comprehensive network monitoring solution designed to provide real-time visibility into the performance and health of IT infrastructures. It offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies the management of various network devices, applications, and services. With capabilities that extend beyond traditional network monitoring, NetCrunch supports a wide range of operating systems and platforms, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X.
When it comes to SNMP graphing, NetCrunch offers extensive support for SNMP versions 1, 2c, and 3. The tool includes over 8,700 pre-compiled MIBs and a built-in MIB compiler that allows users to integrate custom MIBs easily. This feature enables the monitoring of various SNMP devices such as routers, switches, printers, and cameras.
NetCrunch provides predefined views tailored for common device types, which automatically adapt to display relevant metrics based on the device’s characteristics. Users can also create custom monitoring views using YAML, allowing for personalized data visualization that meets specific operational needs.
NetCrunch operates under a licensing model that includes both perpetual licenses and subscription options. The pricing structure is based on the number of nodes and switch interfaces monitored. Additionally, NetCrunch offers a 30-day free trial version that allows potential users to explore its features before committing to a purchase.
FrameFlow is a specialized network monitoring tool designed to provide comprehensive insights into the performance and health of IT infrastructures, particularly focusing on SNMP monitoring. It simplifies the complexities associated with network management software by offering a user-friendly interface that allows IT professionals to monitor various devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
The tool includes an SNMP Bandwidth Event Monitor that tracks bandwidth usage on a variety of networking equipment. Users can set thresholds for incoming and outgoing traffic, receiving alerts when these thresholds are exceeded.
Additionally, FrameFlow provides built-in graphs that display both short- and long-term bandwidth trends, which are essential for capacity planning and understanding usage patterns over time.
FrameFlow can be licensed on a subscription (monthly or annual) or perpetual basis. The basic plan allows for the monitoring of 25 endpoints, but the tool can monitor up to 20,000 endpoints on the Enterprise tier. There is also a 30-day free trial for its paid versions, allowing potential users to explore the full range of functionalities before making a financial commitment.
While the market offers numerous SNMP graphing tools with varying capabilities and price points, choosing the right solution depends heavily on your organization’s specific needs, budget, and technical requirements. After thoroughly analyzing the top 10 SNMP graphing tools available today, Paessler PRTG Network Monitor stands out as our recommended choice for most organizations.
PRTG Network Monitor excels by offering a comprehensive yet user-friendly solution that combines powerful SNMP graphing capabilities with excellent scalability and an intuitive interface. Its all-in-one approach eliminates the need for multiple tools, while its flexible pricing model makes it accessible to both small businesses and large enterprises. The tool’s robust feature set, including customizable dashboards, automated alerting, and detailed reporting capabilities, provides everything needed for effective network monitoring and performance analysis.
Regardless of which tool you choose, implementing an SNMP graphing solution is crucial for maintaining network health, optimizing performance, and ensuring your infrastructure operates at its best. As networks continue to grow in complexity, having the right monitoring and graphing tools becomes increasingly important for proactive network management and troubleshooting.
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