OpenNMS has carved out a solid position in our best network monitoring tools roundup as a compelling open-source alternative to commercial solutions. The platform offers two distributions — Horizon for rapid innovation and Meridian for enterprise stability, both completely open source. You'll find comprehensive fault, performance, and traffic monitoring capabilities that rival expensive proprietary tools.

Techradar reviewers spend several weeks researching each major IT platform in the market. We found that OpenNMS excels at handling large-scale networks, with Fortune 500 companies using it to monitor tens of thousands of devices. While LogicMonitor remains our pick for the best network monitoring tool of 2025, OpenNMS delivers exceptional value for teams with strong technical skills.

OpenNMS: Features

OpenNMS packs an impressive array of monitoring capabilities that rival commercial platforms costing thousands more. You get comprehensive network discovery, fault detection, performance monitoring, and traffic analysis in a single platform.

The feature set is well-suited for large enterprises and technical teams who need deep customization options. While some competitors offer more polished interfaces, OpenNMS compensates with raw power and flexibility. At $44,100 annually for enterprise support, the pricing reflects the platform's enterprise-grade capabilities.

Network discovery and auto-discovery

OpenNMS automatically discovers devices across your network using industry-standard protocols like SNMP, HTTP, and JDBC. You can configure discovery ranges and let the platform map your entire infrastructure without manual intervention. The system integrates with over 2,000 networking vendors, ensuring compatibility with your existing hardware.

Fault management and alerting

The platform excels at fault detection with intelligent path outage analysis. Instead of flooding you with alerts when a core device fails, OpenNMS sends a single notification for the root cause. You may also appreciate features like escalation policies and contact groups that ensure the right people get notified at the right time.

Performance monitoring and graphing

Real-time performance data collection covers everything from CPU utilization to custom metrics. OpenNMS generates comprehensive graphs that integrate beautifully with Grafana for advanced visualization. The system handles up to 300,000 data points per second, making it suitable for the largest enterprise networks.

Flow analysis and traffic monitoring

Built-in support for NetFlow v5/9, IPFIX, and sFlow provides deep traffic analysis capabilities. You can track bandwidth utilization, identify top talkers, and analyze traffic patterns across your entire network. This feature alone justifies the platform for many organizations.

Business service monitoring

OpenNMS maps network performance to business services, helping you understand how technical issues impact operations. You can create custom service definitions and track their health across multiple network components. This business-focused approach sets OpenNMS apart from basic monitoring tools.

OpenNMS: Ease of use

OpenNMS demands significant technical expertise, and you'll need to invest time learning its configuration approaches. The web interface handles basic tasks, but advanced features require editing XML files and command-line work. We found the learning curve particularly steep for teams coming from simpler monitoring tools. However, once you master the basics, the platform's flexibility becomes a major advantage.

The interface itself feels dated compared to modern alternatives like LogicMonitor or Datadog. You'll spend time navigating between different sections to accomplish tasks that other platforms handle in single dashboards. OpenNMS has acknowledged this limitation and continues improving the web UI, but significant configuration work still happens outside the browser. The rigorous community documentation helps, but expect weeks of learning before you're fully productive.

OpenNMS: Pricing

OpenNMS offers an attractive pricing structure with a completely free open-source option that includes all core monitoring features. But the jump to enterprise support is significant at about $44,100 annually, which gives you installation consulting and guaranteed response times.

This pricing model works well for organizations that either have strong internal expertise (free version) or can afford to pay for the enterprise-grade support guarantees. Compared to competitors like LogicMonitor starting at $375 monthly, OpenNMS provides better value for large deployments where per-device pricing becomes expensive.

OpenNMS: Customer support

OpenNMS provides tiered support options ranging from community forums to enterprise-grade SLAs. The free community version relies on extensive documentation and active user forums. You'll find helpful resources, but response times depend on community availability. They also maintain a detailed knowledge base and video tutorial tfor common issues.

Enterprise customers get dedicated support portals with guaranteed response times. Critical issues receive 1-4 hour responses depending on your plan, with business-hours coverage standard across paid tiers. Support tickets integrate with internal development processes, ensuring bug fixes and enhancements get proper attention. However, enhancement requests don't carry SLA guarantees, which may frustrate teams expecting rapid feature development.

OpenNMS: Alternatives

OpenNMS occupies a unique position as the most capable open-source network monitoring platform, competing directly with commercial giants like SolarWinds and PRTG. You'll find it particularly valuable if you need enterprise-scale monitoring without per-device licensing costs. The platform works best for large organizations with dedicated network teams who can invest time in proper configuration and customization.

Key competitors include LogicMonitor for cloud-native environments, Datadog for application-focused monitoring, and Nagios for simpler network oversight. OpenNMS differentiates itself through comprehensive flow analysis, business service mapping, and the ability to handle massive device counts without licensing restrictions. However, teams wanting plug-and-play simplicity should consider commercial alternatives that prioritize ease of use over raw functionality.

OpenNMS: Final verdict

OpenNMS delivers exceptional value for organizations willing to invest in proper implementation and training. You get enterprise-grade monitoring capabilities that rival solutions costing significantly more, plus the flexibility that comes with open-source software. The platform works best for sprawling networks where customization and scalability matter more than interface polish.

However, you shouldn't underestimate the learning curve and ongoing maintenance requirements. Small teams or organizations lacking dedicated network expertise may find commercial alternatives more cost-effective when factoring in implementation time. For the right use case, technical teams monitoring large, diverse networks — OpenNMS represents one of the best values in enterprise monitoring.

FAQs

What's the difference between OpenNMS Horizon and Meridian?

Horizon is the community version where new features are developed and tested rapidly, making it ideal for organizations wanting the latest capabilities. Meridian focuses on long-term stability with enterprise support options, receiving thoroughly tested features after they've proven stable in Horizon deployments.

Can OpenNMS monitor cloud infrastructure and hybrid environments?

Yes, OpenNMS supports distributed monitoring through Minion collectors that can be deployed in remote locations or cloud environments. You can monitor AWS, Azure, and other cloud services alongside traditional on-premises infrastructure from a single platform.

How does OpenNMS licensing work for commercial use?

The core OpenNMS software is completely open source and free for commercial use. You only pay for enterprise support, consulting services, and additional commercial components if needed. There are no per-device licensing fees, making it cost-effective for large deployments.

What level of technical expertise is required to implement OpenNMS?

You'll need solid networking knowledge and Linux administration skills for successful deployment. While basic monitoring can be configured through the web interface, advanced features require XML editing and command-line configuration. Plan for several weeks of learning and configuration time.

Does OpenNMS integrate with other IT management tools?

OpenNMS offers extensive integration capabilities through its REST API, supporting connections with ticketing systems like Jira, messaging platforms, and visualization tools like Grafana. The platform can also integrate with configuration management systems and other network tools through various protocols and APIs.

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Auvik positions itself as a comprehensive network management solution designed specifically for modern IT teams and managed service providers. The platform automatically discovers and maps your entire network infrastructure, providing real-time visibility into device health, traffic patterns, and performance metrics.

Techradar reviewers spend several weeks researching each major IT platform in the market, testing core functionality and evaluating real-world performance. We found that for the most part, Auvik delivers on its promise of simplified network management through automation.

While LogicMonitor remains our pick for the best network monitoring tool of 2025 thanks to its AI-powered IT workflows, Auvik offers compelling advantages for teams seeking straightforward deployment and management.

Auvik: Features

Auvik delivers a feature-rich platform that's particularly well-suited for IT teams and MSPs managing multiple network environments. It excels in automated discovery, real-time monitoring, and data visualization, with over 64 pre-configured alerts out of the box.

While the feature execution is generally solid, we noticed gaps in advanced customization options that competitors like SolarWinds NPM offer. The device-based pricing model justifies the cost for smaller networks, but larger deployments may find better value elsewhere.

Network mapping

Auvik's automated topology mapping stands out as one of its strongest features. The platform uses automated discovery protocols to map your entire network infrastructure, creating visual representations that update in real-time as devices connect or disconnect. You can track traffic flow between devices, even across VLANs and subnets, and investigate issues with interactive maps that provide instant access to device details.

Performance monitoring

The platform provides comprehensive real-time monitoring across all network devices. You get instant bandwidth monitoring with intuitive charts, active alert tracking, and detailed insights into top applications and traffic flows. Monitoring extends beyond basic metrics to include geo data analysis and application performance tracking.

Configuration management

Auvik automatically backs up device configurations and tracks changes over time. This feature is invaluable for maintaining business continuity and conducting audits. You can compare configurations side-by-side to spot unauthorized changes and restore previous configurations when needed.

Traffic analysis

Using NetFlow data, Auvik delivers detailed insights into traffic patterns and application usage. You can identify bandwidth-consuming applications, detect potential congestion points, and plan capacity upgrades based on real usage data. This helps optimize network performance and justify infrastructure investments.

Remote management

Auvik includes three key remote management features: an in-app terminal, remote tunneling, and a remote browser. These tools allow you to SSH or Telnet into devices, access web interfaces remotely, and establish secure tunnels for any network protocol. This reduces the need for on-site visits and enables faster issue resolution.

Auvik: Ease of use

Auvik prioritizes user experience with an intuitive interface that requires minimal training. New users consistently praise how quickly they can get up and running, the platform scans networks automatically and populates dashboards without extensive configuration. The learning curve remains gentle even for less experienced IT staff, though some advanced features require deeper networking knowledge to fully utilize.

The platform's design philosophy centers on reducing complexity through automation. Interactive network maps provide hover-over details for quick troubleshooting, while pre-configured alerts eliminate weeks of manual setup. However, some users report that the interface can feel restrictive when trying to customize views or create complex monitoring scenarios that deviate from standard implementations.

Auvik: Pricing

Auvik's device-based pricing model offers transparency but can become expensive as networks grow. The five-device minimum means you'll pay at least $175 monthly for the Essentials plan, even with fewer devices.

While the pricing includes unlimited users and sites, larger organizations often find the costs escalating quickly compared to competitors that offer flat-rate enterprise pricing.

Auvik: Customer support

Auvik provides support through multiple channels including live chat, email, and a comprehensive knowledge base. Support hours run from 4 AM to 10 PM ET, Monday through Friday, with response times varying by severity level. Critical issues (Severity 1) receive responses within two business hours, while lower-priority requests may take up to 24 hours.

The support team demonstrates strong technical expertise, particularly helpful given Auvik's focus on complex network environments. However, the limited weekend coverage could pose challenges for organizations requiring 24/7 support. Educational institutions and non-profits can access discounted pricing, though specific support tier differences aren't clearly documented.

Auvik: Alternatives

Auvik occupies a strong position in the mid-market network monitoring space, competing primarily with Paessler PRTG, SolarWinds NPM, and NinjaOne. The platform appeals most to IT teams and MSPs who value automated discovery and simplified management over extensive customization options. Its cloud-based architecture makes it particularly attractive for organizations managing distributed networks.

Key competitors include Paessler PRTG for Windows-focused environments, LogicMonitor for AI-driven insights, and SolarWinds for enterprise-scale deployments. While Auvik excels in ease of deployment and automated mapping, larger enterprises might find more value in platforms offering advanced analytics, custom reporting, or integrated IT service management capabilities.

Auvik: Final verdict

Auvik delivers exactly what it promises: simplified network monitoring that works well out of the box. The automated discovery and mapping capabilities save significant time during deployment, while the intuitive interface ensures teams can become productive quickly. For IT teams and MSPs managing multiple client networks, these advantages often outweigh the platform's limitations.

However, the device-based pricing model and limited customization options may not suit all organizations. Larger enterprises or teams requiring custom monitoring scenarios might find better value with more flexible alternatives. Despite these constraints, Auvik remains a solid choice for organizations prioritizing ease of use and automated network visibility.

FAQs

What types of devices does Auvik monitor?

Auvik monitors network infrastructure devices like routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless controllers as billable devices. Non-billable devices including servers, workstations, access points, and printers are monitored for free, providing comprehensive network visibility without additional per-device costs.

How long does Auvik take to set up?

Initial setup typically takes just a few hours, with the platform automatically discovering and mapping your network infrastructure. Most users report having full visibility within their first day of deployment, thanks to Auvik's automated discovery protocols and pre-configured monitoring templates.

Can Auvik integrate with other IT management tools?

Yes, Auvik offers API access and various integrations to connect with existing IT workflows. The platform supports integration with ticketing systems, documentation tools, and other network management platforms, though the specific integration catalog isn't as extensive as some enterprise-focused competitors.

Does Auvik offer on-premises deployment options?

Auvik operates as a cloud-based SaaS solution, with on-premises collectors that securely relay network data to the cloud platform. This provides the benefits of cloud management while keeping sensitive network data collection local to your environment.

What's included in Auvik's free trial?

Auvik offers a 14-day free trial with full access to all platform features. No credit card is required for the trial, and you can monitor your entire network infrastructure during the evaluation period to assess the platform's fit for your specific requirements.

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ManageEngine OpManager is an enterprise-ready network monitoring solution trusted by over 1 million IT administrators worldwide. It provides comprehensive visibility into network health and performance across switches, routers, servers, and other critical infrastructure components. For organizations evaluating network monitoring options, OpManager deserves consideration alongside the solutions featured in our best network monitoring tools roundup.

TechRadar reviewers spend several weeks researching each major IT platform in the market, analyzing everything from feature depth to pricing structures. During our evaluation process, we found that while LogicMonitor remains our top pick for network monitoring in 2025 thanks to its AI-powered suite for day-to-day IT network automation, OpManager offers a compelling alternative for budget-conscious enterprises.

OpManager's strength lies in its end-to-end approach to network infrastructure monitoring, supporting both traditional and hybrid environments including VMware, Hyper-V, and cloud-based networks. Its proactive alert system and real-time dashboards provide IT teams with the visibility needed to prevent outages and resolve issues quickly, making it a practical choice for organizations prioritizing network uptime and performance.

ManageEngine OpManager: Features

OpManager delivers a feature-rich monitoring platform that covers nearly 3,000 metrics across network devices, servers, and applications. It is particularly well-suited for mid-to-large enterprises managing complex hybrid infrastructures, offering solid core monitoring functions like device discovery, performance tracking, and alert management.

While OpManager includes essential capabilities like network topology mapping, bandwidth monitoring, and automated workflows, it notably lacks some advanced features found in competitors such as sophisticated machine learning integration and multi-threshold alerting. But given the competitive pricing at $245 for 10 devices, the feature set provides excellent value for organizations seeking comprehensive monitoring without premium-tier costs.

Real-time network monitoring

OpManager excels at continuous performance monitoring across routers, switches, firewalls, and servers, tracking availability and health metrics in real-time. The platform supports multiple monitoring protocols including SNMP, WMI, and CLI, ensuring compatibility with diverse network hardware. Users consistently praise the real-time dashboards for providing clear visibility into network performance without latency issues.

Automated device discovery

It automatically discovers network devices and builds topology maps, significantly reducing manual configuration time. OpManager can detect newly added devices in subnets and immediately begin monitoring them, though some users report challenges with older legacy devices requiring manual SNMP OID mapping. The discovery process supports hybrid environments including cloud and virtualized infrastructures.

Alerting and notifications

OpManager's multi-channel alerting system sends notifications via email, SMS, and SNMP traps when thresholds are breached. The platform allows customization of alert thresholds and escalation procedures, though users note limitations in setting multiple threshold levels for the same parameter. Real-time alerting capabilities help IT teams identify and address issues before they impact end users.

Performance analytics and reporting

ManageEngine generates comprehensive reports on network performance, bandwidth utilization, and device health trends. Built-in dashboards provide visual representations of network data, while customizable reports support compliance and capacity planning requirements. Most users appreciate the intuitive graphical interface and NOC dashboard building capabilities.

ManageEngine OpManager: Ease of use

OpManager has a user-friendly interface that simplifies network monitoring for IT administrators of varying experience levels. The web-based console features intuitive navigation and customizable dashboards that allow users to quickly access critical network information. New users can typically navigate the basic monitoring functions within hours, though the extensive feature set may require several days to master fully. Plus a graphical approach to network topology mapping and performance visualization reduces the learning curve compared to command-line alternatives.

However, initial setup can be time-consuming, particularly when integrating legacy devices or complex hybrid environments. Some users report that adding older network equipment requires manual configuration and SNMP OID mapping, which demands deeper technical knowledge. The default report templates may also need customization to meet specific organizational requirements, occasionally requiring scripting or external tools for advanced reporting needs.

ManageEngine OpManager: Pricing

OpManager's pricing structure offers competitive value compared to enterprise-grade alternatives, with transparent per-device licensing that includes unlimited interfaces, nodes, and sensors. This allows organizations to start small and scale up as monitoring needs grow, though the jump from Professional to Enterprise edition represents a significant price increase for advanced features.

While more affordable than premium solutions like LogicMonitor or Datadog, OpManager's pricing can become substantial for large-scale deployments, with the Enterprise edition reaching $11,545 for 250 devices. The inclusion of all monitoring capabilities within the base license helps avoid unexpected costs, making it easier to budget for network monitoring initiatives.

ManageEngine OpManager: Customer support

ManageEngine provides comprehensive support options through both Classic and Premium tiers, with Classic support included free with subscription licenses. Classic support offers email and chat assistance during regional business hours, with acknowledgment within 8 hours and access to product upgrades and online resources. The support team is knowledgeable and responsive for most technical issues, though response times can vary depending on case complexity and geographic region.

Premium support significantly enhances the experience with 24/7 multi-channel assistance including telephone support, single point of contact, and faster response times with acknowledgment within 3 hours. This tier includes additional services like health checks, custom product support, and online training sessions. However, Premium support requires additional investment beyond the base license cost, and some advanced customizations may still require professional services or partner assistance.

Phone support is available across multiple regions including the US (+1 877 834 4428), UK (0800 028 6590), and Australia (1800 631 268).

ManageEngine OpManager: Alternatives

OpManager occupies a solid middle-ground position in the network monitoring market, competing directly with solutions like Paessler PRTG, Auvik, and SolarWinds NPM. The platform is best suited for mid-to-large enterprises seeking comprehensive monitoring capabilities without the complexity or cost of premium alternatives like Datadog or LogicMonitor.

Key competitors include Auvik, which offers superior ease of use and cloud-native architecture, and Paessler PRTG, which provides more flexible sensor-based pricing and stronger customization options. Premium alternatives like LogicMonitor and Datadog offer more advanced AI/ML capabilities and extensive integrations but command significantly higher prices.

ManageEngine OpManager: Final verdict

ManageEngine OpManager delivers reliable network monitoring fundamentals at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for enterprises seeking comprehensive infrastructure visibility without premium costs. It excels in device coverage, real-time alerting, and hybrid network support, providing teams the essential tools needed to maintain network health and performance.

While it may lack some advanced features found in higher-end competitors, OpManager's combination of functionality and affordability creates strong value for budget-conscious organizations. And its proven track record with over 1 million administrators worldwide demonstrates its viability as a long-term monitoring solution.

FAQs

What devices can OpManager monitor?

OpManager supports monitoring of switches, routers, firewalls, servers, wireless devices, load balancers, and virtualization platforms including VMware, Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer. The platform can monitor nearly 3,000 different metrics across these device types using protocols like SNMP, WMI, and CLI. It also supports cloud and hybrid network infrastructures, making it suitable for modern enterprise environments.

How does OpManager pricing compare to competitors?

OpManager offers competitive pricing starting at $245 for 10 devices annually, significantly less expensive than premium alternatives like LogicMonitor or Datadog. The per-device licensing model includes unlimited interfaces and sensors, providing predictable costs. However, large-scale deployments can become expensive, with Enterprise edition pricing reaching $11,545 for 250 devices.

What support options are available with OpManager?

ManageEngine provides Classic support free with subscription licenses, including email and chat during business hours with 8-hour acknowledgment times. Premium support offers 24/7 assistance, phone support, faster response times (3-hour acknowledgment), and additional services like health checks and custom support. Phone support is available globally across multiple time zones and languages.

Can OpManager integrate with other IT management tools?

OpManager supports integration with other ManageEngine products and third-party systems through APIs and standard protocols. The platform can send alerts to external systems via SNMP traps, email, and webhooks. However, the integration ecosystem is more limited compared to cloud-native competitors, and complex integrations may require custom development or professional services.

Is there a free trial available for OpManager?

Yes, ManageEngine offers a 30-day free trial of OpManager that includes full functionality for evaluation purposes. The trial allows organizations to test the platform with their actual network infrastructure before purchasing. Trial users receive evaluation support with 2-business-day acknowledgment times, though some advanced support features are reserved for paid customers.

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Flexera is an enterprise-grade IT asset management software platform that benefits organizations with complex setups.

When we first tried Flexera, we immediately noticed its powerful features for managing software licenses and hardware assets in complex environments. The platform has two main solutions: FlexNet Suite for on-premise and hybrid setups, and Flexera One for cloud-focused organizations. We found that they both excel at optimizing license usage and identifying cost-saving opportunities, leading to substantial ROI.

Flexera stands out for its visibility across the entire IT estate, covering everything from on-premises software to cloud applications. Its customizable dashboards clearly displayed our test environment's compliance status and spending patterns. The self-service portal and automation features could help IT teams streamline service delivery, freeing them to focus on strategic tasks instead of manual work.

Yet configuring Flexera properly requires significant expertise and time. The platform's complexity can hinder smaller organizations without dedicated resources. However, those that manage to navigate the initial setup will find powerful tools for license optimization, cloud cost management, and compliance tracking.

We had a positive experience with Flexera's reporting, which provided actionable insights into software usage and potential compliance risks. Its integration with major ITSM tools, like ServiceNow, enhances its utility in enterprise settings. Still, Flexera could use some improvements where SaaS management is concerned. For mid to large enterprises managing complex software portfolios, Flexera offers a compelling solution despite its initial complexity.

Flexera: Plans and pricing

Flexera does not publicly share pricing; it operates on a custom quote model based on organization size and needs. During inquiries, we learned that pricing typically follows a subscription model.

Costs depend on factors like the number of endpoints managed, cloud environments monitored, and specific modules chosen. This enterprise-focused solution generally starts in the five-figure range annually, making it suitable mainly for mid to large organizations.

Customers can choose between FlexNet Suite for on-premise deployments or Flexera One for cloud environments. Modular pricing allows organizations to select only the components they need. While the initial investment is high, organizations managing large software portfolios might achieve ROI in 6-12 months through license optimization and cloud cost savings.

Flexera: Features

Flexera offers a full suite of IT asset management tools for optimizing investments across on-premise, cloud, and SaaS environments. But here are the features that impressed us the best:

License optimization

Flexera's license management features give insights into software usage and compliance. The system spots unused or underused licenses, saving money on renewals. It reconciles actual usage with entitlements and creates clear compliance reports, which is very helpful during vendor audits.

Cloud cost management

Flexera One helps you see your cloud software costs across various providers. Its automated recommendations for rightsizing instances and cutting waste are especially helpful. They even offer clear savings estimates for finance teams. We could set budgets, track spending, and get alerts when we approached limits. These features provide governance that many organizations find hard to achieve.

Vulnerability intelligence

Flexera's vulnerability management integrates with its software inventory to identify security risks. We appreciate how it correlates known vulnerabilities with software inventory, prioritizing remediation based on risk levels and business impact. Integration with popular security tools and patch management systems creates a combined workflow for addressing vulnerabilities efficiently.

IT visibility dashboard

The customizable dashboards provide a unified view of assets, licenses, and cloud resources. We were able to configure role-specific views that delivered relevant insights to stakeholders, from technical details for IT admins to cost summaries for C-suite executives. The ability to drill down from high-level summaries to granular details makes it easy to investigate and understand relationships within the software estate.

Flexera: Analytics

Flexera's reporting and analytics features stand out as a major highlight, providing actionable intelligence beyond basic inventory reports. We were impressed by its ability to generate detailed license compliance positions, identify optimization opportunities, and forecast future needs based on historical usage.

Pre-built report templates cover common use cases like compliance audits and budget planning. But the custom report builder allows IT teams to create tailored analyses for specific needs.

The analytics dashboard presents key metrics visually, making complex data accessible to various stakeholders. We liked the trend analysis features that help spot gradual changes in resource use and spending patterns.

Automated report distribution ensures decision-makers receive needed insights regularly, while export options can help you integrate this data into broader business intelligence initiatives.

Flexera: Ease of use

Flexera has a sleek interface that organizes many features through easy navigation and customizable dashboards. At first, the extensive options can feel overwhelming. But during testing, we loved the contextual help and guided workflows for complex tasks, like reconciling license entitlements or optimizing cloud resources. Still, new users may need formal training to fully use the platform, as many advanced features aren't clear without guidance.

The platform combines power and accessibility, with role-based views for different user types. The self-service portal is easy to use, letting end-users request software without technical help, while automation cuts down manual tasks for admins. The mobile experience works for basic monitoring and approvals but does not offer the depth of the desktop interface, which is needed for advanced features.

Flexera: Support

Flexera offers tiered support options. Standard support provides help during business hours. Premium support gives 24/7 coverage with quicker responses for critical issues.

During our research, we found the knowledge base to be quite comprehensive. It includes detailed documentation, implementation guides, and a library of video tutorials for common questions. Customer community forums allow users to share advice. Also, the professional services team offers specialized help and training for organizations needing extra support.

Flexera: Security

Flexera demonstrates a strong commitment to security. It achieves this through SOC 2 Type II compliance, regular penetration testing, and solid data protection measures. There are comprehensive role-based access controls that let organizations define who can view and modify data. Detailed audit logs track user activities. The platform offers single sign-on integration with major identity providers. It also encrypts data in transit and at rest. These features provide essential security controls for managing sensitive IT asset information.

Flexera: The Competition

ServiceNow's IT Asset Management competes directly with Flexera. It offers similar features but is part of a larger IT service management platform. ServiceNow has better integration with ITSM processes. However, Flexera usually excels in software license optimization and cloud cost management.

Snow Software is another option. It has an easier entry point for mid-sized organizations but may not compete with Flexera's features for complex enterprises.

For those prioritizing cloud cost management over full ITAM, tools like CloudHealth by VMware or Apptio Cloudability are easier to implement. IBM's License Metric Tool (ILMT) is tailored for managing IBM software licenses. Meanwhile, Microsoft's Endpoint Configuration Manager offers basic software inventory for Windows environments. These alternatives suit organizations with specific needs that may find Flexera's broad approach too much.

Flexera: Final Verdict

Flexera is an enterprise-grade IT asset management tool that benefits organizations with complex setups. This includes on-premise, cloud, and SaaS deployments. Its approach to IT asset management is impressive, especially for license optimization and cloud cost management. While implementation can be complex, larger companies who are able to invest these resources will see significant returns.

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PRTG Network Monitor is a mature workhorse in our best network monitoring tools roundup.

Paessler's flagship product offers comprehensive visibility across networks, servers, and applications through its signature sensor-based approach. The platform monitors everything from bandwidth usage to hardware health metrics in real-time.

TechRadar reviewers spend several weeks researching each major IT platform in the market. We've found PRTG particularly appealing for mid-sized organizations seeking robust monitoring without enterprise complexity.

While LogicMonitor remains our pick for the best network monitoring tool of 2025, thanks to its AI-powered automation suite for IT workflows, PRTG offers compelling value for teams prioritizing quick deployment and comprehensive device support.

Paessler: Pricing

• Note: Prices converted from perpetual licenses to monthly equivalents based on 3-year depreciation

PRTG's sensor-based pricing offers flexibility but can become expensive as monitoring requirements grow. The licensing model counts individual metrics rather than devices, with most devices requiring 5-10 sensors for comprehensive monitoring.

While this allows precise control over monitoring scope, costs escalate quickly in large environments.

Support requires additional annual fees ranging from $360-680 after the first year, which adds to the total cost of ownership.

Paessler PRTG: Features

PRTG’s feature depth justifies its position among leading network monitoring platforms. It mostly targets IT professionals managing diverse network environments, with particular strength in multi-vendor networks.

For example, it’s remarkably good at infrastructure monitoring, with over 250 native sensor types covering everything from SNMP devices to SaaS.

However, PRTG lacks the advanced AI/ML capabilities of some competitors like LogicMonitor.

Its pricing remains reasonable for smaller deployments, but sensor-based licensing can become quite expensive as monitoring needs grow.

Automatic network discovery

PRTG's automatic discovery feature simplifies initial setup by identifying all network devices and creating appropriate monitoring sensors automatically. The system recognizes servers, routers, switches, and printers without manual configuration. This significantly reduces deployment time and ongoing management overhead for IT teams.

Real-Time dashboards and visualization

The platform provides customizable dashboards with live status information and graphical data representation. You can create custom maps using the PRTG map designer to visualize network topology and performance metrics. These visual tools help administrators quickly identify issues and understand network health at a glance.

Multi-protocol monitoring

PRTG supports comprehensive monitoring through multiple protocols, including SNMP, WMI, NetFlow, and HTTP.

The platform can monitor physical network environments, virtual servers, cloud services, and applications from a single interface. This makes it suitable for hybrid infrastructure environments combining on-premises and cloud resources.

Alerting and notification system

The notification system delivers alerts via email, SMS, push notifications, and integrations with third-party tools. Administrators can customize alert thresholds and create escalation procedures to ensure critical issues receive appropriate attention. PRTG has achieved 91% satisfaction ratings for its alerting capabilities.

Reporting and analytics

PRTG generates customizable reports covering performance metrics, availability statistics, and trend analysis. Users can schedule automated reports and create executive summaries for stakeholder communication. The reporting functionality supports compliance requirements and capacity planning initiatives

Paessler PRTG: Ease of use

PRTG's interface strikes a balance between comprehensive functionality and user accessibility.

The web-based dashboard presents monitoring data through intuitive graphs and visual representations that help newcomers understand network status quickly.

Setup takes just minutes with the automatic discovery feature handling initial device identification.

However, the sensor-based licensing model can confuse new users who expect traditional per-device pricing.

And while the platform's learning curve remains manageable for IT professionals, customization requires a deeper understanding of both the infrastructure and the platform's capabilities.

Advanced features like custom sensors and complex alerting rules demand more technical expertise.

Most users praise the straightforward approach to adding devices and configuring basic monitoring, but note that fine-tuning alerts and managing large sensor deployments requires careful planning to avoid notification fatigue.

Paessler PRTG: Customer support

Paessler provides multiple support channels, including email, phone, and an integrated help desk accessible through the PRTG interface.

The company offers comprehensive documentation, video tutorials, and an active community forum for troubleshooting assistance. Premium support includes priority response times and direct access to technical specialists for complex issues.

Support quality varies by license tier, with basic plans receiving standard email support and enterprise customers getting dedicated account management. Response times typically range from 1-2 business days for standard inquiries, though critical issues receive faster attention.

The company charges additional fees for extended support beyond the first year, which some users find frustrating compared to competitors offering inclusive support packages.

Paessler PRTG: The competition

PRTG occupies a strong position in the network monitoring market as a feature-rich solution for mid-sized organizations.

The platform competes directly with SolarWinds NPM, ManageEngine OpManager, and Progress WhatsUp Gold in the traditional enterprise monitoring space.

PRTG's strength lies in its comprehensive device support and reasonable pricing for smaller deployments, making it particularly attractive for organizations managing diverse network environments.

For enterprises seeking advanced analytics and automation, LogicMonitor's AI-powered platform offers superior predictive capabilities and automated remediation.

Cloud-native organizations might prefer DataDog or New Relic for their modern architectures and developer-focused features.

PRTG remains the better choice for traditional IT teams managing on-premises infrastructure who value proven reliability over cutting-edge automation capabilities.

Paessler PRTG: Final verdict

PRTG Network Monitor delivers solid value for organizations seeking comprehensive network monitoring without excessive complexity.

The platform's extensive sensor library, intuitive interface, and quick deployment make it an excellent choice for IT teams managing traditional network infrastructures.

While the sensor-based licensing model may surprise newcomers, the flexibility to monitor specific metrics provides precise control over costs and monitoring scope.

However, PRTG falls behind newer competitors in AI-driven automation and predictive analytics capabilities. Organizations prioritizing modern features like intelligent alerting, automated remediation, or advanced machine learning should consider alternatives like LogicMonitor.

For traditional IT environments where proven reliability and comprehensive device support matter most, PRTG remains a compelling choice that balances functionality with accessibility.

Paessler PRTG: FAQs

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HP ZBook Firefly G10 A: Two Minute Review

The ZBook range is HP’s answer to the need for an enterprise fleet for businesses that trade on more demanding graphical or data processing workloads and the Firefly is the entry level segment of the Z range. 

This doesn’t mean all the ZBook Firefly G10 or G10 A devices are going to be suited to one kind of employee however, since even within this line-up the devices can be configured with a range of CPUs and integrated or entry-level discrete GPUs. 

The most powerful ZBook Firefly G10 has slightly lower graphical performance than something running a Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050, so it’s really only suitable for creatives with the lightest workloads and regular office workers. If you do need that little bit more the ZBook Power, Studio and Fury are tailored to heavier kinds of creative workflows.

The devices come with Windows Pro operating systems and processors that allow all the extra security and fleet management tools that businesses may need. This means they’re not often competitive as consumer or home-work devices for anyone that can operate without logging into company systems. So for the self employed, you're going to get more value from an Asus Zenbook S 13, Dell’s XPS 13 Plus or a MacBook Air, but for businesses HP’s ZBook range makes it convenient to set up and monitor fleets and add hardware service care for devices. 

HP ZBook Firefly G10 A: Price and availability

• From $1,769 / £1,200 / AU$2,456 / SG$2,201
• IT Support (3 years)  $117 /  £132 / AU$270

The entry level devices start at $1,769  / £1,200 / AU$2,456 for something with an Intel Core i5-1340P CPU, 16GB of RAM and integrated Iris Xe Graphics (or the Nvidia RTX A500 in the UK). That pricing is pretty steep in the US and Australia, since you only get a device that’s just capable of what you’d want in a professional laptop intended to last 3 to 5 years. On something like this you can expect to have no issue running standard office applications, web browsers and possibly the occasional bout of light photo editing, but there’s not a lot of overhead for anyone doing more demanding work than standard office tasks. This is compounded by the Firefly's entry-level FullHD+ screen that is just 250 nits and has poor 45% NTSC colour reproduction, which won’t allow you to do any serious creative work. 

If you do need the ‘workstation’ capabilities boasted about in HP’s marketing materials you’ll need to invest in one of the more capable systems. There are too many to list individually here, and availability varies region-to-region, but they range all the way up to the $4,549 (about £3,597 / $6,782) G10 with an Intel Core i7-1365U CPU, 64GB RAM allocation and Nvidia RTX A500 GPU. 

This device has an Intel chip with vPro compatibility and a W11 Pro OS that includes the kinds of tools and security features that are handy to companies with a fleet of laptops and an IT department to manage them. This makes them not particularly competitive to everyday self-employed worker or small business professionals that can live without tools like encrypted storage lockers and remote desktop control. 

If you are buying for a business you can easily add next day IT support for 3 years for $117 /  £132 / AU$270 or extend that for as long as your business intends to maintain the devices. 

In Australia you can buy the non-pro variants of the AMD options for up to AU$880 less, but the pricing of Pro vs standard is not consistent across the range and sometimes the less full featured options are, inexplicably, more expensive. 

• Price score: 3 / 5

HP ZBook Firefly G10 A: Specs

The ZBook Firefly 14 inch G10/ G10 A is a 14-inch pro workstation from HP that can be configured with either an Intel or AMD CPU. Bundled with a choice of Windows 10 or 11 Pro OS as standard, these devices come with extra security and enterprise tools that can be particularly handy for larger fleets of work devices. 

The device we were sent to test included an AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 7640 CPU, 16GB RAM allocation and an AMD Radeon 760M integrated graphics card which retails for $2,017 /  AU$2,470 / SG$2,201 (about £1,593). 

• Specs score: 3 / 5

HP ZBook Firefly G10 A: Design

• Good port selection
• Bigger than consumer Ultrabooks

The Zbook Firefly doesn’t have anything revolutionary in its design, in fact it’s probably more vanilla than a lot of the top professional ultrabooks out there. There are some decent configurations to be found, but it has too many different options to have a cohesive design concept that can easily be communicated to individual consumers. 

Based on the web page marketing, HP is going after the creator market with this device and there are some devices that fit that category well, but it also ranges products with a 250 nit FullHD+ display that has terrible colour accuracy and are not suitable for creatives. Some models also rely on integrated graphics, which won’t be ideal for anyone running heavier than average graphical workloads. 

The screen does offer a convertible-style hinge that can fold back on itself which makes it easy to view and use the touchscreen from any angle. There’s an included HDMI port, that is rarely seen these days, to make it super easy to connect to legacy displays for an office presentation. It’s also got a fingerprint reader and a 5MP camera that can take photos at up to QHD and offers great quality webcam video. This combines with a good speaker and microphone array and the latest on board AI processing to filter out unwanted sounds and frame and highlight you during web conferences. 

The Firefly G10 A is designed to be the Ultrabook of the Z Workstation range, so it’s just under 0.79-inches (2cm) thick and weighs a very manageable 3-pounds (1.4kg). This isn’t quite as light as what you’ll get from the latest consumer Ultrabooks, since it weighs 40% more than the 2.2-pound (1kg) Asus Zenbook S 13 OLED and it’s close to 70% thicker than most current Ultrabooks which land around the 1.2cm thick mark. 

• Design score: 3 / 5

HP ZBook Firefly G10 A: Performance

• Wide range of devices
• Differing levels of performance

It’s a bit of a complicated story to talk about performance here as you’ve got 8 CPUs and 6 GPUs spanning from rudimentary capabilities to moderate and even some high-performance chips. If you’re a creative you might be able to get away with the AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 processors and Radeon 780M integrated graphics as they offer graphics around what you’ll see on Apple’s 2022 M2 processor on the Macbook Air devices, but they’re usually paired with the lower spec screens that we wouldn’t recommend for creative work. That means you’re going to want to opt for one of the devices with a HP DreamColor display and one of the discrete Nvidia GPUs if you have more demanding graphical workflows. 

The model we tested was the most basic AMD version available, so performance is pretty conservative with the 6-core AMD Ryzen Pro 7640HS lining up with some of the lower core 13th gen Intel i7 devices. Relying on the Integrated Radeon 760M GPU and 16GB of RAM, this device doesn’t have the graphical capability for entry level-gaming like you’ll get on Apple’s M2 (and later) GPUs, but it is fractionally ahead of Intel’s integrated Iris Xe chip on many 13th gen devices. This unit was competent at basic office and browser based tasks. It’s even going to have the capacity for light photo editing and simple creative workflows, but it’s not powerful enough to run complicated 3D models or work effectively with large raw video files. 

• Performance score: 3 / 5

Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED (2023): Battery life

• 12h53min work lifespan 
• 13h18min movie playback

The almost 13 hour light work battery life on the Zbook Firefly G10 A we tested was definitely one of the better aspects of this device. It’s not unprecedented, both the XPS 13 Plus and the Asus Zenbook 13 OLED have similar work life spans and all of them are still hours off what you’ll get on Apple’s current range, but it’s well over a standard work day so should give you enough juice to do whatever you need to without carrying a charger. 

Unfortunately we suspect that the higher resolution 2560 x 1600 pixel, 500 nit HP DreamColour displays won’t fare so well in overall battery life since they share the same 51Wh battery, but add a brighter more power hungry screen that’ll drain power much faster.

• Battery life score: 4 / 5

Should you buy the HP ZBook Firefly G10 A?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Asus Vivobook Pro 16X OLED (2023): Also consider

How I tested the HP ZBook Firefly G10 A

• I tested it using both benchmark tests and video game benchmarks
• I stress-tested the battery using the TechRadar movie test

I ran the  HP ZBook Firefly G10 A  through our standard suite of benchmarks to get a feel for the laptop's peak performance and to see how it compares with the best on the market.

In addition to our standard suite of testing, I also tested the device using it for a day of work to see how it fares when typing, web browsing, working and for light photo and video editing tasks. 

The screen was analysed using TechRadar's standard movie test and was compared against other screens running standard web browsing and movie editing software. 

The battery life was benchmarked with two tests to simulate different battery life scenarios.

Read more about how we test laptops and desktops.

First reviewed August 2023