17 Best Syslog Servers for Windows and Linux

the ultimate list of syslog servers for windows and linux

When it comes to network monitoring, Syslog (System Logging) tools are a vital piece of any serious network administrator’s toolkit. Every minute devices from computers to printers generate syslog messages about a variety of events. For years network administrators have used these messages to monitor enterprise-scale IT infrastructure from the top down.

Short on time to read the whole post? here is our summary list of the best Syslog servers for Windows and Linux:

  1. ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer (FREE TRIAL) A full SIEM security system that includes Syslog and Windows event log management. Start a 30-day free trial.
  2. ManageEngine OpManager (FREE TRIAL) Provides robust real-time monitoring and automated alerting, ensuring effective management of syslog servers. It’s a comprehensive tool with customizable dashboards and detailed reporting. Download a 30-day free trial.
  3. Paessler PRTG Syslog (FREE TRIAL) An all-in-one network, server, and applications monitor that includes a Syslog server. Runs on Windows Server. Start a 30-day free trial.
  4. SolarWinds Kiwi Syslog Collects Syslog, SNMP, and Windows event log data. Runs on Windows and Windows Server.
  5. Loggly Cloud-based log file consolidator that reformats all files into a common structure.
  6. SnmpSoft Syslog Watcher Windows-based Syslog server that includes analytical features.
  7. Splunk Light A free version of the popular Splunk service. Suitable for smaller networks.
  8. The Dude A free Syslog server that runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.
  9. Visual Syslog Server Free, open-source Syslog server that installs on Windows.
  10. 3cDaemon A lightweight, free Syslog server for Windows.
  11. Rsyslog An open-source Syslog server for CentOS and RHEL Linux.
  12. NXlog A syslog server in both free and paid versions that can collect over 100,000 messages per second. Runs on Windows and Linux.
  13. Icinga 2 A free network monitoring and management system that includes a Syslog server.
  14. TFTPD32/64 A free basic Syslog server for Windows.
  15. WhatsUp Gold Syslog Server A Syslog server for Windows that can collect up to six million messages per hour.
  16. Fastvue Syslog A straightforward Syslog message collector and log file manager.
  17. Nagios Log Server Syslog and Windows event log server that is part of a network management system, available in free and paid versions.
  18. Syslog NG A free, open-source Syslog server for Windows and Mac OS.

In most cases these events are innocuous yet sometimes they identify serious faults within an organization’s IT setup. Syslog servers take the information generated by these systems and compile it in one place where it can be used by an administrator to monitor the network’s performance. In this article, we guide you through what a Syslog server is before breaking down our ultimate list of Syslog servers for Windows and Linux.

What is Syslog?

As mentioned above, a syslog enables devices within your network to send messages about ongoing events to a syslog server where they are logged. This log acts as a record of active events throughout your IT infrastructure and allows you to view events on a large number of devices through one system and one pane of glass.

A syslog server works by taking log messages from your IT equipment and storing it in a centralized location where it can be viewed by a network administrator. Syslog servers are completely supported on Linux, Unix and MacOS systems. On Windows, Syslog can be supported through the use of third party applications as well. In terms of core components, most Syslog servers have:

  • A Syslog Listener – Takes data from Syslog messages sent to UDP port 514 and stores it in a centralized location
  • An Internal Database – The best Syslog servers store syslog data within an internal database.
  • A Filtering system – Filtering log messages will cut down the amount of time needed to sift through all this data.

Syslog server features

A typical Syslog server will help your network administration tasks by performing the following tasks:

  • Collecting syslog messages from different device types
  • Performing cross-platform functions to spot message that arise from any operating system
  • Provide a central storage point for all Syslog messages that arise on a WAN
  • Create a logical directory structure to aid access to historical Syslog data
  • Impose a standard file format for event logs
  • Enable live messages to be viewed
  • Provide a viewer for historical data loaded from file

The number of Syslog servers available today shows that this is a busy market. Competing providers are making their servers increasingly sophisticated, so now it is possible to get extra Syslog management features even from free Syslog servers. Look out for bonus features. Some Syslog servers can provide these services:

  • Analyze the frequency of Syslog messages by source type and warning severity
  • Display alerts in the dashboard and/or issue notifications by email
  • Trigger actions in the event of an alert condition arising
  • Consolidate other system warnings into a multi-source monitoring system
  • Integrate SNMP statuses into event log monitoring
  • Include graphical data representations in the dashboard.

The capabilities of a Syslog server can range from a simple message trap that writes to a file through to an event alerting and analysis tool.

Why Do I Need A Syslog Server?

Syslog servers are an essential tool for maintaining a clear view of an enterprise-scale network. Rather than sifting through Syslog messages on individual devices you can use a Syslog server to pull data from hundreds of disparate devices and access all these messages in one place. Without a syslog server, you’d have to check through each device individually.

The biggest advantage of a Syslog server is that it reduces manual network management time. You can simply check the Syslog server and read through the Syslog event messages generated by your entire network. This not only gives you a clearer view of what’s going on but makes your network monitoring more efficient as well. Below we break down some of the best Syslog Servers for Windows and Linux.

Our methodology for selecting the best Syslog server tool:

We’ve broken down our analysis for you based on these key criteria:

  • Compatibility with various operating systems including Linux, Windows, and Unix
  • User interface ease of use and efficiency in network traffic visualization
  • Automation capabilities for alerts and updates
  • Reliability in collecting and managing Syslog events and messages
  • Availability of free trials or free editions for user assessment

The best Syslog servers:

1. ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer (FREE TRIAL)

ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer

ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer is a critically acclaimed Syslog server tool and SIEM solution. With a price of $3,495, this mid range network analytics tool offers you plenty of bang for your buck. It supports Windows and Linux make it ideal for users working within a cross-platform environment.

Key Features:

  • On-demand reporting
  • Cross-platform support
  • Multiple platform event management

Why do we recommend it?

EventLog Analyzer’s detailed reporting and compatibility with various platforms make it a robust choice for Syslog management.

Who is it recommended for?

Suitable for users in cross-platform environments needing extensive Syslog event monitoring and analysis.

Pros:

  • Detailed on-demand reports
  • Supports Windows and Linux
  • Effective for diverse network devices
  • Comprehensive syslog analysis

Cons:

  • Price may be a barrier for some

What sets the EventLog Analyzer tool apart is that you can generate on-demand reports to monitor your syslog event messages. This makes it much easier to identify and address faults. It can manage events on network devices across multiple platforms. You can analyze syslogs from Unix, Linux, Solaris, HP-UX, and IBM AIX. You can start with a 30-day free trial.

ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer Start the 30-day FREE Trial

2. ManageEngine OpManager (FREE TRIAL)

ManageEngine OpManager

ManageEngine OpManager offers robust syslog management capabilities, providing real-time monitoring that ensures immediate visibility into syslog data. Its automated alerting system allows for quick responses to critical events, enhancing overall network security and performance.

Key Features:

  • Real-time Monitoring: Continuously tracks syslog data for immediate insights.
  • Automated Alerts: Sends notifications based on predefined criteria to ensure quick response.
  • Comprehensive Reporting: Generates detailed reports for syslog server activities and performance.
  • Customizable Dashboards: Allows users to personalize dashboards to monitor critical metrics.
  • Scalable Architecture: Designed to handle growing amounts of syslog data efficiently.

Why do we recommend it?

ManageEngine OpManager is recommended for its robust capabilities in real-time monitoring and automated alerting, ensuring that syslog servers are effectively managed and critical issues are promptly addressed.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is ideal for IT departments and system administrators in medium to large enterprises who need comprehensive monitoring and reporting solutions for their syslog servers.

The tool’s comprehensive reporting feature generates detailed analyses of syslog server activities, making it easier to identify and troubleshoot issues. Additionally, its customizable dashboards enable users to focus on the most critical metrics, and its scalable architecture ensures that it can handle growing volumes of syslog data efficiently.

Pros:

  • Real-time Insights: Provides immediate visibility into syslog data, enhancing decision-making.
  • Automated Alerts: Ensures prompt response to critical events with automated notifications.
  • Detailed Reporting: Offers comprehensive reports to analyze server performance and activities.
  • Customizable Dashboards: Users can tailor dashboards to focus on essential metrics.
  • Scalable Design: Efficiently manages increasing volumes of syslog data.

Cons:

  • Complex Initial Setup: The initial configuration can be time-consuming and complex.

You can test out ManageEngine OpManager on a 30-day free trial download.

ManageEngine OpManager Download a 30-day FREE Trial

3. Paessler PRTG Syslog (FREE TRIAL)

PRTG screenshot

PRTG Network Monitor is a quality choice for enterprise-scale Syslog monitoring but does come with a bit of a learning curve. To begin using PRTG you need to install the Network monitor and then use the syslog server sensor to search for devices. The filtering options are very strong with PRTG Syslog. You can select what type of messages will be recorded and whether they will be categorized as errors or warnings.

Key Features:

  • Advanced filtering options
  • High capacity message handling
  • User-friendly interface

Why do we recommend it?

PRTG’s exceptional capacity for message handling and advanced filtering make it ideal for large-scale Syslog monitoring.

Who is it recommended for?

Recommended for enterprises requiring extensive Syslog monitoring with a focus on high-volume data management.

Pros:

  • Handles up to 10,000 messages/sec
  • Advanced filtering capabilities
  • Easy-to-navigate interface
  • Free for first 100 sensors

Cons:

  • Steeper learning curve for new users

PRTG is a very powerful tool with the capacity to handle a massive 10,000 messages per second. Though you’re unlikely to reach this figure unless your equipment is regularly optimized, it has more than enough strength to accommodate a large stable of devices. Overall the user interface is very easy to use. The icing on the cake is that you can download PRTG for free for the first 100 sensors. You can download a free 30-day trial.

PRTG Network Monitor Download PRTG Network Monitor

4. Kiwi Syslog Server Free Edition by SolarWinds

SolarWinds kiwi syslog server picture

Kiwi Syslog Server by SolarWinds has developed a reputation as one of the most popular network monitoring tools on the market today. Kiwi is used by administrators across the world to collect Syslog events and messages from network devices on Linux, Windows and Unix. The user interface is incredibly easy to use and you can create professional graphs to view your network traffic and generate accurate insights.

Key Features:

  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Automatic email alerts
  • Graphical network insights

Why do we recommend it?

Kiwi Syslog Server offers a user-friendly interface and effective automation features, making it an ideal choice for network monitoring and insights.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is perfect for administrators needing to collect Syslog events across various network devices and platforms.

Pros:

  • Intuitive user interface
  • Efficient automation for alerts
  • Professional graphical network insights
  • Supports Linux, Windows, and Unix

Cons:

  • Limited functionality in the free edition

Kiwi is also a great choice if you’re looking for automation as well. You can have email updates sent to an email of your choice as well as alerts to warn you of common network problems like hardware failures and other faults.

Kiwi Syslog Server Free Edition by SolarWinds is on our list due to its wide acceptance and popularity among network administrators globally. Its compatibility across Linux, Windows, and Unix makes it versatile for different network environments. The user interface is notably user-friendly, facilitating easy creation of professional graphs for insightful network traffic analysis.

What sets Kiwi apart is its automation features, allowing for email updates and alerts, making network management more efficient and proactive. These attributes, coupled with the availability of a 14-day free trial, make it an outstanding choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich Syslog server solution.

5. Loggly

Loggly is a log consolidator that is available on the cloud as a subscription service. Although the console and the processor for this service are resident on remote servers, you do need set up a scheduled log upload agent on your own system.

Key Features:

  • Cloud-based log consolidator
  • Neutral format analysis
  • Versatile export options

Why do we recommend it?

Loggly’s ability to analyze log files from diverse sources and its cloud-based nature make it a standout for network administration.

When the Loggly service receives your log files, it reinterprets each into a neutral format. This enables you to conduct analysis on files from disparate sources, which is a very beneficial service of the Loggly system. The console includes analysis utilities. However, if you want, you can always export the files to other tools for interpretation.

Loggly gives you visibility on the activity on your network and can identify anomalous activity and intrusion. Other areas of your administration job that Loggly can help with include capacity planning and disaster recovery strategy formulation.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for businesses needing comprehensive log analysis and consolidation across multiple platforms.

Pros:

  • Efficient cloud-based operation
  • Neutral format for diverse sources
  • Useful for capacity planning
  • Assists in disaster recovery strategy

Cons:

  • Requires local log upload agent

Loggly is available in four plans and the lowest of these, Loggly Lite, is free to use. The three paid plans cater to businesses of different sizes. These are Standard, Pro, and Enterprise. You can get a 14-day free trial of Loggly and if you decide not to buy at the end of the period, your account gets switched over to the permanently free version.

6. EZ5 Systems Syslog Watcher

snmpsoft syslog watcher

If you’re a Windows user looking for a Microsoft-based Syslog server, EZ5 Systems Syslog Watcher should be at the top of your list. With a free version that allows you to monitor up to 5 Syslog devices and a paid version that lets you manage an unlimited number of devices, this is one of the best Syslog servers on the market. With Syslog Watcher you can monitor a whopping 5,000 Syslog messages per second.

Key Features:

  • Extensive email alerts
  • High message throughput
  • Advanced filtering options

Why do we recommend it?

Syslog Watcher’s high capacity for message processing and detailed filtering options make it an excellent choice for Windows users.

Like SolarWinds, you can use email alerts to stay in the loop about the live changes occurring on your network. Extensive filtering options allow you to narrow down the log messages that you have access to. You can also search through the database of stored Syslogs via a search function. In addition, the user has the opportunity to develop reports that can be exported to an external database.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for those who need a robust Windows-based Syslog server capable of handling a large volume of messages.

Pros:

  • Monitors 5,000 messages per second
  • Effective for Windows users
  • Extensive filtering capabilities
  • Allows detailed report generation

Cons:

  • Limited device monitoring in free version

7. The Dude

The Dude Syslog screenshot

As one of the lesser-known Syslog servers on this list, The Dude still pulls its weight against the competition. This free Syslog server can be used on Linux, Mac, and Windows to provide a complete overview of your Syslog messages. It also supports SNMP, DNS, ICMP and TCP monitoring if needed as well. You can also draw your own network map, which is useful for increasing your transparency.

Key Features:

  • Network map creation
  • Multi-platform support
  • Basic, user-friendly interface

Why do we recommend it?

The Dude offers a straightforward, user-friendly approach to Syslog monitoring, suitable for a variety of platforms.

The user interface is very basic in its approach but it does the job. Choose from many different tabs tabs from Syslog to Outages. The Outages page is perhaps the most important as this is where you can see the status of your devices alongside their service type. As a free tool The Dude is definitely worth consideration if you’re looking for a basic Syslog monitoring solution.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for users seeking a basic, free Syslog monitoring solution across Linux, Mac, and Windows.

Pros:

  • Supports SNMP, DNS, ICMP, TCP
  • Simple, effective user interface
  • Free to use
  • Useful for creating network maps

Cons:

  • Limited in advanced features

8. Visual Syslog Server

visual syslog server screenshot

If you’re looking for a Syslog server for Windows, Visual Syslog Server offers a compelling package. This free and open-source program has all the components to allow the user to log syslog messages. The user interface may look quite antiquated, but its stripped back simplicity makes it very easy to navigate through your recorded data. One of the most useful features of Visual Syslog server is that you can set thresholds of log messages that trigger predefined scripts.

Key Features:

  • Script-triggering thresholds
  • Extensive filtering capabilities
  • Highlight important data

Why do we recommend it?

Visual Syslog Server’s ability to set thresholds for triggering scripts and its extensive filtering options make it a solid choice for Windows users.

Visual Syslog server has its own filtering options and allows the user to filter by facility, host, source address, tag, message contents, or priority. You can also highlight any data you need to keep track of. Overall Visual Syslog Server is very easy to install and use, and offers a solid suite of features for a free program. This is a great fit for smaller enterprises starting out with Syslog management.

Who is it recommended for?

Best suited for small enterprises or individual users who require a simple yet effective Syslog management tool for Windows.

Pros:

  • Customizable data highlighting
  • User-friendly despite basic UI
  • Free and open-source
  • Good for small-scale operations

Cons:

  • Antiquated user interface

9. 3cDaemon

3cdaemon syslog server

3cDaemon was designed with windows in mind, and operates as an excellent free platform for SMEs. In terms of filtering, 3cDaemon has a FAR tab (Find and Replace) where you can search for files via their file name extension and IP address. The user can also view log information in real time.

Key Features:

  • Real-time log viewing
  • FAR tab for filtering
  • Windows-centric design

Why do we recommend it?

3cDaemon’s real-time log viewing and specialized filtering make it a reliable and straightforward choice for Windows users.

As an added bonus, you can also transfer log information into ASCII. Unfortunately on newer versions of Windows the application may have performance issues, so it is best if you’re operating on an older Windows operating system.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for SMEs operating on Windows, particularly older versions, requiring a simple and efficient Syslog server.

Pros:

  • Effective for Windows environments
  • Real-time log information access
  • Simplified file searching
  • Supports ASCII log transfers

Cons:

  • Performance issues on newer Windows

10. Rsyslog

ryslog server

If you’re looking for a quality Syslog server for Linux, Rsyslog is a great option for individual users and enterprises alike. Rsyslog is an open source program that provides a range of log management options. Rsyslog is most commonly used through CentOS or RHEL 7. If you’re running a CentOS 7 system you don’t even need to download Rsyslog.

Key Features:

  • High message throughput
  • Linux-focused functionality
  • Versatile log management

Why do we recommend it?

Rsyslog’s immense capacity and versatility make it a standout choice for Linux users needing high-performance log management.

The main draw of Ryslog is that it is a powerful and versatile program. It can take log information from almost any device while monitoring up to 1 million messages per second. Unfortunately, Ryslog’s lack of support for Windows users makes it unsuitable for cross-platform environments. That being said, if you’re on Linux this program is well worth consideration.

Who is it recommended for?

Best suited for Linux users, particularly those using CentOS or RHEL 7, looking for a powerful Syslog server.

Pros:

  • Manages 1 million messages/sec
  • Ideal for Linux environments
  • No need for download on CentOS 7
  • Highly versatile and powerful

Cons:

  • Not suitable for Windows users

11. NXLog

Nxlog is a high performance Syslog management platform thats available for Windows and Linux. Nxlog can collect log files in a variety of formats whether through UDP, TCP, or TLS and SSL. It is powerful enough to collect over 100,000 events per second. The NXLog Community edition offers users additional support for CheckPoint LEA and SNMP events.

Key Features:

  • Supports multiple formats
  • High event collection rate
  • Windows and Linux compatible

Why do we recommend it?

Nxlog’s high-performance capabilities and support for a variety of log formats make it a competitive option for both Windows and Linux users.

Another useful feature is the ability to collect and manage Windows logs remotely. The versatility of NXLog’s features make it a very competitive addition to our list. Luckily the community edition is free, but if you want to know the price for the enterprise edition you will have to contact NXLog directly.

Who is it recommended for?

Recommended for users requiring a high-capacity, versatile Syslog server across multiple operating systems.

Pros:

  • Collects over 100,000 events/sec
  • Versatile format support
  • Effective for remote log management
  • Free community edition available

Cons:

  • Enterprise edition pricing unclear

12. Icinga 2

icinga 2 screenshot

Icinga 2 has long been known as an alternative network monitoring tool to Nagios, but it is also a very competent free Syslog server as well. Icinga 2 can be installed on Linux and offers a comprehensive interface through which the user can monitor Syslog messages. This platform is extremely user-friendly and customizable.

Key Features:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Customizable severity levels
  • Automated alert parameters

Why do we recommend it?

Icinga 2’s ease of use and customizable alerting make it a great choice for comprehensive Syslog monitoring on Linux.

The user limits the amount of Syslog messages recorded by selecting a specific severity level. All Syslog messages will still be collected but only those of a certain severity will be actively recorded. There are five severity levels to choose from: debug, information, warning, notice and critical. If you want a platform with automated alert parameters, you should definitely consider Icinga 2.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for users seeking a user-friendly and customizable Syslog server that offers detailed control over severity levels.

Pros:

  • Highly customizable interface
  • Selective severity recording
  • User-friendly for Linux users
  • Free to use

Cons:

  • Limited to Linux environments

13. TFTPD32/64

TFTPD32 Syslog Server

The catchily named TFTPD32/64 is an open-source Windows utility that also functions as a handy Syslog collection tool. It can receive Syslog messages and other event information from DHCP, DNS and SNTP servers. All your event messages will be stored in files where they can be viewed by the network administrator.

Key Features:

  • Supports multiple protocols
  • Open-source Windows utility
  • Simple event file storage

Why do we recommend it?

TFTPD32/64’s ability to handle multiple server types and straightforward file storage make it a practical choice for Windows users.

In terms of functionality, TFTPD doesn’t have that much more to offer. The basic user interface does its job but if you’re looking for more advanced reporting capabilities then you should probably look elsewhere. But if you’re looking for a free entry into Syslog server management tools, you could do a lot worse.

Who is it recommended for?

Best suited for those who need a basic, open-source Syslog tool on Windows, particularly for handling DHCP, DNS, and SNTP server events.

Pros:

  • Handles DHCP, DNS, SNTP servers
  • Open-source and free to use
  • Simple, functional user interface
  • Ideal for basic Syslog management

Cons:

  • Limited advanced reporting capabilities

14. WhatsUp Gold Syslog Server

WhatsUp Gold Syslog Server

WhatsUp Gold is an established name in the world of Syslog servers for one reason: reliability. WhatsUp can collect event logs from any device capable of sending syslog messages. In fact, WhatsUp has the power to monitor up to 6 million messages per hour. However WhatsUp doesn’t just leave you to sift through this mountain of data alone, you can filter information by IP address, log type, date, time, and text content.

Key Features:

  • High-volume message handling
  • Extensive filtering options
  • Customizable alerts

Why do we recommend it?

WhatsUp Gold’s capacity to monitor a vast number of messages and its robust filtering capabilities make it a reliable choice for large-scale Syslog management.

You can send alerts straight to an email address, file, or Windows event log. You can even include data from the logs in your alerts. WhatsUp Gold is designed to work with Windows and runs on Windows 7, 8.1, and 10. or WhatsUp Gold can be purchased for $2,656. You can download the free trial here.

Who is it recommended for?

Recommended for enterprises that require a Syslog server capable of handling very high message volumes with precise filtering.

Pros:

  • Monitors up to 6 million messages/hour
  • Advanced filtering by various criteria
  • Tailored alert options
  • Designed for Windows compatibility

Cons:

  • Cost may be prohibitive for some

15. Fastvue Syslog

fastvue syslog server screenshot

Fastvue is available on Windows Server 2008 onwards and offers users a simple Syslog server monitoring solution. Fastvue works by taking incoming Syslog messages and recording them straight to a file. This is done by providing individual log files for every reporting device (straightforward but not ideal for analyzing log data).

Key Features:

  • Direct file recording
  • Windows Server 2008 onwards
  • Report generation on log sizes

Why do we recommend it?

Fastvue provides a straightforward approach to Syslog management, especially for users looking for basic log file recording on Windows.

In regards to additional features, you can generate reports on the size of your log files for more detailed information. Unfortunately this is the limit on what you can do in terms of analysis. This is a good solution for recording your Syslogs but if you’re looking for sophisticated analysis your better off exporting to a third party tool or choosing another provider altogether.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for users on Windows Server 2008 and later who need a simple solution for recording Syslog messages without complex analysis requirements.

Pros:

  • Simple and direct logging process
  • Suitable for Windows Server 2008+
  • Generates log size reports
  • Good for basic monitoring needs

Cons:

  • Limited analytical capabilities

16. Nagios Log Server

nagios log server screenshot

In terms of Syslog monitoring solutions, Nagios has a pedigree all of its own. This free open source application allows users to gather events information from Windows and Linux devices alike. One of the advantages of Nagios for Windows and Linux is that it combines log messages into a centralized location. With the free version this can be done with up to 500MB of data every day.

Key Features:

  • Centralized log collection
  • Customizable visualizations
  • Diverse dashboard features

Why do we recommend it?

Nagios Log Server’s excellent visualization tools and the ability to centralize logs from multiple systems make it a strong contender for comprehensive Syslog analysis.

What really sells Nagios as a Syslog server tool is its diverse visualization features. Not only can you customize the dashboard but you can also port your data into graphs, charts and histograms. If you’re looking for a solution that really helps you to analyze your Syslogs then Nagios should be your first choice. The standard license Nagios costs a respectable $1,995.

Who is it recommended for?

Best for users who need an advanced, free Syslog server with extensive data visualization and dashboard customization.

Pros:

  • Centralizes logs effectively
  • Customizable graphs, charts, histograms
  • Free version available
  • Supports Windows and Linux

Cons:

  • Free version limited to 500MB/day

17. Syslog NG

syslog ng screenshot

Finally we have Syslog NG, an open source Syslog server application that is a popular alternative to Ryslog on Mac and Windows. The installation process for Syslog NG is incredibly simple, all you need to do is download it via yum. Syslog is very scalable and can support everyone from SME’s to large enterprise. It has a bandwidth of 650,000 messages per second.

Key Features:

  • High bandwidth handling
  • Scalable for various sizes
  • User-defined filtering

Why do we recommend it?

Syslog NG stands out for its scalability and ability to handle a vast number of messages, making it suitable for diverse IT environments.

Syslog NG was built for diverse IT environments using a variety of operating systems and as a result it is compatible with a range of different operating systems. It can also filter through these logs according to user-defined criteria. Relay mode allows an administrator to centralize the management of thousands of different devices. As an open source platform Syslog NG is free to download.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for users in mixed OS environments who need a scalable, powerful Syslog server capable of handling extensive message volumes.

Pros:

  • Manages 650,000 messages/sec
  • Scalable for SMEs to enterprises
  • Compatible with various OS
  • User-defined log filtering

Cons:

  • Interface may be complex for beginners

Syslog Servers: An Administrator’s Ace in the Hole

Monitoring Syslog servers is very time consuming if you don’t have the right tool to help you. A quality Syslog data monitoring application will drastically reduce the amount of manual time you need to spend overseeing your network infrastructure. A Syslog monitoring solution allows you to automate your log collection.

Choosing a tool like SolarWind’s Kiwi and Icinga 2 will allow you to tailor your user experience according to your needs. Whether that’s creating your own alert parameters or designing your dashboard, these features can further reduce the amount of time needed to oversee your Syslogs. The quicker you spot an emerging problem, the faster you can address it.

If you want to maintain an enterprise grade network infrastructure long term, then you should definitely consider employing a Syslog monitoring tool among your core software tools. You’ll not only be able to see what is happening on your network but also put yourself in a position to be proactive about securing your network uptime.

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