MRTG
MRTG (Multi Router Traffic Grapher) is an open-source network monitoring tool that uses SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to collect and graph traffic data from network devices like routers and switches. It generates visual graphs of bandwidth usage over time, typically in HTML pages with PNG images, helping administrators monitor network performance and identify trends or issues. Originally developed in 1995, it is known for its simplicity and effectiveness in basic network monitoring tasks.
Developers and network administrators should learn MRTG when they need a lightweight, straightforward tool for monitoring bandwidth usage on network devices in small to medium-sized environments, such as tracking internet traffic on a router or switch. It is particularly useful for historical trend analysis and generating reports for capacity planning, as it provides easy-to-read graphs without complex setup. However, for more advanced monitoring with alerts or detailed analytics, modern alternatives like Zabbix or Prometheus are recommended.