PCNetMonitor

PCNetMonitor by Norris Research is an excellent network tool that falls under the Internet & Network category. The latest version, 6.6, is packed with features that make it an indispensable asset for anyone looking to keep tabs on their CPU and network performance.

The PCNetMonitor.exe file, which is just 1.5 MB in size, is lightweight and quick to download. Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, this tool supports a broad range of systems, ensuring that users on different versions of Windows can benefit from its robust monitoring capabilities. The program’s GUI is resizable and consists of selectable text labels along with a scrolling text box that displays performance data and status messages.

Users can monitor eight critical parameters including CPU Usage, Memory Used, Disk Used, Memory Fault Rate, Number of Threads, Number of Network Connections, Network Usage in Packets Per Second, and Network Bandwidth Usage in Mbps. It offers running averages over various periods (1, 2, 5, 10, and 60 minutes) and computes minimum, maximum, and average values for each parameter.

The program also supports sample rate customization and ongoing adjustments, making it adaptable to various monitoring needs. It generates easy-to-read log files to record all monitored parameters and can produce GIF images from performance plots, which can be particularly useful for presentations or documentation.

Norris Research has also ensured that PCNetMonitor offers a seamless Excel plotting interface, automatically generating complete sets of plots for all monitored parameters. This version supports conducting timed tests with precise control over the test duration, making it a versatile tool for detailed performance analysis. Moreover, the software can reside in the system tray for long-term background monitoring, an advantageous feature for users who require constant system surveillance.

Older versions like 7.0, and 6.6 ensure that users who prefer previous builds can still access the software.

Pros:

• Comprehensive monitoring of 8 critical parameters
• User-friendly interface with customizable sample rates
• Lightweight and quick to download
• Seamless Excel plotting interface
• Capability to generate GIF image files from performance plots
• Long-term background monitoring via system tray

Cons:

• Limited to Windows operating systems only, excluding other OS users
• The GUI, while informative, may seem overwhelming to novice users at first glance.

This program is available for a free download, making it accessible to a wide range of users looking for a reliable network monitoring solution.

You may want to check out more software, such as PageScope Network Setup, Veeam FastSCP or CrossFTP Server, which might be similar to PCNetMonitor.