Best Network Security Monitoring Tools 2023

Network security monitoring is a crucial aspect of any organization’s security strategy. It entails keeping an eye on network traffic, seeing possible security concerns, and taking steps to stop them before they can do harm. Businesses are vulnerable to a range of cyber dangers in the modern digital era, including malware, ransomware, and phishing attempts. Network security monitoring tools help businesses stay ahead of these threats and protect their sensitive data.

Types of Network Security Monitoring Tools

There are various types of network security monitoring tools available on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Some of the most common types include:

• Intrusion Detection System (IDS): IDSs are designed to detect and alert security teams to potential security threats. They monitor network traffic for anomalies and use predefined rules to identify suspicious behavior.
• Intrusion Prevention System (IPS): IPSs are similar to IDSs, but they also have the ability to take action to prevent potential security threats. For example, they can block traffic from suspicious IP addresses or quarantine infected devices.
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): SIEM products gather and analyze security-related data from a variety of sources, including intrusion detection systems and intrusion prevention systems. Machine learning techniques are used to detect trends and abnormalities that may signal a security problem.
• Network Traffic Analysis (NTA): Network Traffic Analysis (NTA) technologies track network activity to find possible security risks. In order to find abnormalities and trends that could point to hostile behavior, they use machine learning techniques.

Features to Consider When Choosing Network Security Monitoring Tools

When selecting network security monitoring tools, there are several features that businesses should consider. Some of the most important features include:

• Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts: The tool should provide real-time monitoring and alerts to ensure that security teams can respond quickly to potential threats.
• Scalability: The application must be adaptable to the requirements of organizations of various sizes.
• Ease of Use: The tool should be easy to use, with a user-friendly interface that does not require extensive technical knowledge.
• Integration with Other Security Tools: To provide a complete security solution, the tool should integrate with other security products like firewalls and antivirus programs.
• Customizable Dashboards and Reports: The tool should provide customizable dashboards and reports, allowing businesses to tailor the tool to their specific needs.

Best Network Security Monitoring Tools for 2023

Now that we have discussed the different types of network security monitoring tools and the features to consider when selecting one, let’s take a closer look at some of the best options available for 2023:

1. SolarWinds Security Event Manager: SolarWinds Security Event Manager provides real-time threat detection and response capabilities. It includes customisable dashboards and reports, as well as automatic incident response and forensic investigation. Moreover, it interfaces with other security products like firewalls and antivirus programmes.
2. ManageEngine OpManager Plus: ManageEngine OpManager Plus is an all-in-one network monitoring tool that includes network security monitoring capabilities. It offers configurable dashboards and reporting, real-time warnings, and proactive threat identification. Moreover, a firewall and intrusion detection system are included with it.
3. PRTG Network Monitor: A complete network monitoring solution with security monitoring features, PRTG Network Monitor. It provides real-time alerts and customizable dashboards and reports, as well as the ability to monitor network traffic and detect potential security threats.
4. Cisco Stealth watch: Cisco Stealth watch is a network security monitoring tool that uses machine learning to detect and respond to potential threats. It has real-time monitoring and alerting capabilities, as well as customizable dashboards and reports.
5. LogRhythm NextGen SIEM Platform: LogRhythm NextGen SIEM Platform provides real-time threat detection and response capabilities. It includes advanced security analytics and customizable dashboards and reports.
6. ExtraHop Reveal(x): ExtraHop Reveal(x) is a network security monitoring tool that uses machine learning to detect potential threats. It offers configurable dashboards and reports, real-time monitoring, and alerts. Moreover, it has enhanced danger detecting skills including anomalous and lateral movement detection.
7. Darktrace Enterprise Immune System: Darktrace Enterprise Immune System is an AI-powered network security monitoring tool that provides real-time threat detection and response capabilities. It uses machine learning to detect and respond to potential threats, as well as to provide network visibility and anomaly detection. It also includes customizable dashboards and reports.

Comparison of the Best Network Security Monitoring Tools

To help you choose the best network security monitoring tool for your business, here is a comparison of the features, pros, and cons of the tools we have discussed:

Tool	Features	Pros	Cons	Pricing
SolarWinds Security Event Manager	Real-time threat detection and response, compliance management, customizable dashboards and reports	Easy to use, affordable pricing for small to medium-sized organizations	Limited support for advanced threat detection capabilities	Contact for pricing
ManageEngine OpManager Plus	Real-time monitoring and alerting, customizable dashboards and reports, network mapping and visualization	Affordable pricing, easy to use	Limited support for advanced threat detection capabilities	Starts at $245
PRTG Network Monitor	Real-time monitoring and alerting, customizable dashboards and reports, network mapping and visualization	Easy to use, affordable pricing	Limited support for advanced threat detection capabilities	Starts at $1,750
Cisco Stealthwatch	Real-time monitoring and alerting, advanced threat detection capabilities, network visibility and anomaly detection	Comprehensive threat detection capabilities, integration with other security tools	Can be expensive for smaller organizations	Contact for pricing
LogRhythm NextGen SIEM Platform	Real-time threat detection and response, advanced security analytics, customizable dashboards and reports	Comprehensive threat detection capabilities, integration with other security tools	Can be complex to set up and configure	Contact for pricing
ExtraHop Reveal(x)	Machine learning-based threat detection, real-time monitoring and alerting, advanced threat detection capabilities	Lateral movement detection, customizable dashboards and reports	Can be expensive for larger organizations	Contact for pricing
Darktrace Enterprise Immune System	AI-powered threat detection and response, real-time monitoring and alerting, network visibility and anomaly detection	Comprehensive threat detection capabilities, easy to use	Can be expensive for smaller organizations	Contact for pricing

Conclusion

Selecting the appropriate network security monitoring solution for your firm is crucial for ensuring network security and integrity. By understanding the different types of tools available and the features to consider, you can select a tool that meets your specific needs and helps you stay ahead of potential threats. The tools we have discussed in this article are some of the best options available for 2023, but there are many others to choose from. Be sure to evaluate each tool carefully and select the one that is best suited to your organization’s needs and budget.

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