Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid)

Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid). System logging protocol (Syslog) is a networking protocol for monitoring devices and sending log messages to a server. It is a means of sending event messages to a logging server, known as a Syslog server. The Syslog protocol receives data about event status, network diagnostics, and more. This is the industry standard and is used in almost all network logging devices.

Basically, a Syslog server is based on the Syslog protocol.  In other words, the Syslog protocol and server work together to facilitate seamless log tracking and management. After, you access their collected logs for analysis, perform network audits, monitor the network environment, and troubleshoot any issues.

Shall we start with Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid)?

How Does a Syslog Server Work?

Image Source: Paessler.com

Firstly, Syslog servers collect system log messages from all devices (servers, routers, and firewalls) in a single location. The server can be a physical one, a software based service, or a virtual machine. A typical Syslog server has two components: a Syslog listener and a database. The listener allows the server to receive messages, while the database enables the network to store this log data for easy reference.

Syslog server has a simple, layered architecture. There are three layers that make up Syslog:

  • Application layer.
  • Transport layer.
  • Content layer.

The application layer enables the message to be routed around independently and stored while the transport layer sends the message of a network. The content layer is the data containing the message. It contains several standardized information or elements, including severity levels and facility codes.

The Syslog messages are generated by individual applications or different network components.  They follow a standard format that is required for message transmission between applications.

Best Syslog Servers for Windows/Linux Systems

Moreover, the ideal Syslog server should allow you to collect both the Syslog messages and view and filter them from a single location. Here are 20 of the best servers for Linux/ Windows systems:

1. SolarWinds Kiwi Syslog Server

Image Source: SolarWinds.com

First on the list of Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid ) is Solarwinds Kiwi Syslog Server. Mainly it is an advanced network log management tool. This server allows you to centralize and access your Syslog messages in a single console.  In turn, this reduces the number of hours it takes to troubleshoot network issues, as you easily find the root cause and resolve problems faster. The Kiwi Syslog server is designed to minimize network downtimes. Regardless of the number of messages the network generates, the Syslog server filters the irrelevant messages out and applies rules to notify you of any detected issues.

This server applies filters and rules based on a few factors, such as hostname, device IP address, the severity of Syslog messages, and more. Also, this server has its own web access where you can access all Syslog messages from anywhere.

The Kiwi Syslog Server has two versions: free and premium. When on the premium version,  you can archive your messages for audit requirements. In essence, these logs come in handy for compliance frameworks such as PCI DSS and HIPAA.

Pros of SolarWinds Kiwi Syslog Server

  • Captures both SNMP and Syslog messages.
  • Has an easy-to-use web interface that enables you to view all Syslog data from anywhere.
  • Suitable for large networks with lots of events.
  • Has a smart filtering feature to remove all unnecessary messages.
  • Sends alerts to email in real time.
  • Premium version is relatively inexpensive.
  • Allows you to archive Syslog messages for compliance audits.

Cons of SolarWinds Syslog Server

  • Not suitable for non technical users.
  • Cumbersome setup menu.

2. Nagios Syslog Server

Image Source: Nagios.com

The Nagios Syslog Server is a high performance server that enables you to monitor your Syslog messages. It’s designed to collect Syslog information on Linux and Windows systems and consolidate them in a single location where you can view and act on them easily. Besides, it lets you choose the physical servers where to store event logs and distribute storage over various servers.

The Nagios console allows you to view streams of log messages and access stored data.  Besides, the interface provides filtering and sorting functions to help you analyze messages. With this Syslog server, you can specify conditions for alerts and frequency for specific message types.

Deploy Nagios Core in the Cloud

Pros of Nagios Syslog Server

  • It has a highly customizable dashboard.
  • It has an open source free version.
  • Alerts you upon detecting specific log patterns.
  • Supports built in event visualization.

Cons of Nagios Server

  • The free version has a limit of 500 MB of data processing per day.
  • The high price for the pro version makes sense only for large organizations with large networks.
  • Cumbersome server that consumes high amounts of CPU and RAM.

3. ManageEngine EventLog Syslog Server

Image Source: ManageEngine.com

On the third spot of Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux we have ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer is a powerful Syslog monitoring tool for Windows and Linux systems. Importantly, it collects, filters and organizes Syslog messages generated by network devices in your network. This server enables you to set up real time alerts via email or SMS for events in your network. This way, you detect the presence of threats or issues in your network and resolve them in real time.

Basically, this server acts as a repository for logs from multiple sources. It has a listener that gathers and processes log data sent over TCP or UDP. Also, it has a bundled PostgreSQL database that logs and archives data collected from network devices. There is also a log parser that ingests high amounts of log data generated and filters it, remaining with the important log entries.

This tool has a graphic dashboard that displays data in the form of charts and graphs. Above all, it organizes data in such a way that you can instantly identify issues and security threats. Also, it comes with a custom report builder to enable you to generate reports based on several criteria, such as security, source, and event time.

Pros of ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer

  • It monitors all data from Active Directory infrastructure.
  • Performs in depth forensic analysis to backtrack attacks and identify the root cause of incidences.
  • Enables the analysis of log data from Apache web servers, Linux applications, Oracle and SQL databases, and Microsoft IIS.
  • Integrate seamlessly with other ManageEngine system management tools.
  • Encrypts archive logs to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Also monitors SNMP messages.

Cons of ManageEngine EventLog Analyzer

  • Large number of features that a long period to learn and implement.
  • Limited scalability.

4. PRTG Syslog Server

Image Source: Paessler.com

The PRTG Syslog Analyser enables you to manage your system log messages effectively. Ideally, this tool was designed to detect loopholes promptly and alert you before errors occur. It has a built-in Syslog receiver sensor that collects all the delivered messages. All you need to do is configure the receiver and the IP address of the server as the log data destination. The dashboard displays the number of messages received for a second, warning messages, error messages, and the number of dropped packets per second.

The receiver enables you to set filtering rules. This makes it possible for messages to be classified as ‘warning’ or ‘error’ regardless of how they were generated. Once the filter is in place, system administrators start receiving notifications about all errors without being overwhelmed by the less important ones.

Altogether, PRTG Syslog Server runs on all windows supported systems. However, this is not a standalone server. You need to install PRTG to use as it’s part of a larger technology stack.

Pros of PRTG Syslog Server

  • Offers both cloud and on premise versions.
  • The free version is suitable for small businesses as it allows monitoring with up to 100 sensors.
  • Customize it to meet individual business needs.
  • It’s ideal if you want to monitor other aspects of a business such as applications and infrastructure.

Cons of PRTG Syslog Server

  • Steep learning curve .
  • Limited technical support.

5. Visual Syslog Server

Image Source: SourceForge.net

Visual Syslog Server is an open source program for receiving and viewing Syslog messages in Linux and Windows systems. It receives messages from multiple devices via TCP or UDP protocols compliant with RFC 3164. Also, it has a live messages view and colour codes to enable you to identify the type of error messages. Warning messages are displayed in yellow while error messages are displayed in red.

You can install this application on Windows or Linux systems. Compatible with Windows versions above Windows XP alongside Windows Server 2003, 2008 and 2012. Unlike most Syslog servers, this server is lightweight and fast. This makes it appealing especially to small businesses with few network instances.

Pros of Visual Syslog Server

  • Has an intuitive interface that utilizes colour to help prioritize logs.
  • Easy to learn and use.
  • Powerful, easy to learn filtering options.
  • Reduces response times for critical issues thanks to its automated problem solving feature.

Cons of Visual Syslog Server

  • Not suitable for large networks that operate at a high scale.
  • Lacks most advanced features of SaaS based tools.

6. WinSyslog Server

Image Source: Winsyslog.com

Another alternative on the list of Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux is WinSyslog. Certainly, also a Windows’ original server designed to monitor Syslog messages from Windows network systems. You can configure it as a service and use either TCP or UDP. This server collects Syslog messages sent from network devices, as well as test logs. You can configure it to ping selected systems at a configured rate.

As noted, WinSyslog Server also acts as an SNMP trap to receive SNMP messages. As an SNMP trap, it can receive and forward messages using SETP.  In turn, this server comes with an embedded web service where you can access and manage Syslog information remotely via a web interface.

Pros of WinSyslog Server

  • Scales appropriately to meet high demand.
  • Lightweight design with low resource consumption.
  • The free version delivers more functionalities compared to similar free server versions.
  • Receives Syslog messages from other systems besides windows.

Cons of WinSyslog Server

  • Limited filtering capabilities.
  • Lacks and intuitive dashboard and customization capabilities.

7. WhatsUP Gold Log Management

Image Source: Whatsupgold.com

WhatsUp Gold Log Management is a powerful server for monitoring Syslog information delivered from multiple devices. It provides an easy way to view and manage log data. You can monitor, search, filter and create alerts for logs for each device in your network. In addition, this server comes with an industry leading interface to enable you to manage a huge volume of lungs from a single location. This dashboard saves you time as it provides an easy way to view reports.

Configure this server to send alerts for specific log events. Choose what events, trends, or conditions generate alerts so you don’t have to be overwhelmed by unnecessary alerts and false positives. Besides seamless Syslog monitoring, this server allows you to archive logs for regulatory compliance. Certainly, you choose where to store data and filter the logs to archive, all through the WhatsUp Gold interface.

Pros of WhatsUp Gold Log Management

  • Uses pre-built filters to narrow down results into the most important ones.
  • It’s built to process millions of logs per hour.
  • Has a clear and very colour coded interface.
  • Has advanced filtering capabilities.

Cons of WhatsUp Gold Log Management

  • The premium version is relatively expensive.
  • Requires intensive computing features to function properly.

8. The Dude

Image Source: Mikrotik.com

The Dude is a network management solution with a free built-in Syslog server. The Syslog server captures messages from your firewall, switches, and routers. Unlike most Syslog servers, the Dude scans all devices and creates our network layout map so you can monitor devices easily. You can use the free server on Windows, Linux, and even Mac systems. It also supports TCP, ICMP, DNS and SNMP monitoring.

This Syslog server has a simple interface that is easy to configure. You can configure the dude to send all records to a file and set rules to divert messages to different destinations.

Pros of Dude Syslog Server

  • Ingests DNS queries, ICMP requests, and SNMP alerts.
  • Auto discovery feature for device identification and network mapping. 
  • Supports log forwarding to other servers.
  • Relatively inexpensive compared to similar tools.

Cons of Dude Syslog Server

  • The interface is quite challenging to learn.
  • It’s cumbersome and consumes a large amount of CPU and RAM.

9. Syslog-ng

Image Source: Syslog-ng.com

Following choice of Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux is Syslog-ng. Concurrently, it is an open-source Syslog server based on the Linux OS, that provides a robust Syslog monitoring experience. As well as, it allows you to send and receive RFC3164 and RFC5424 Syslog messages. While it comes pre installed in Linux, it also provides log management for Windows systems. Unlike most SaaS Syslog servers, you can design plugins to expand its basic functionalities. You can create new modules using Java, Perl, Python, C, and Lua.

When using this server, you can choose to store messages in MongoDB, MySQL, Oracle, or PostgreSQL. The default destination for Syslog messages delivered to this server is the Event Logs section. However, it allows you to forward messages to other applications depending on your needs. The server is designed to reorganize messages arriving in different formats and store them in the same layout.

Pros of Syslog-ng

  • Open source and completely free for use.
  • Does not have operating system constraints and can you collect data on Windows, Linux, and Unix systems.
  • You can tweak its functionality using plugins
  • Provides 24/7 technical support.

Cons of Syslog-ng

  • It does not have a comprehensive dashboard to monitor data.
  • You have to rely on third-party tools for analysis.

10. Datagram Syslog Server

Image Source: Netadmintools.com

Datagram Syslog Server is a Windows log management tool that enables you to receive Syslog messages in real time. It receives and stores enterprise OS logs so you can easily view and manage them. This server comes with a powerful filtering feature known as QuickFilters. In addition, it has an alarm feature where you can define alerts with a few clicks.

The Datagram Syslog server enables you to view any error reports from the entire Enterprise network. The alarms deliver error notifications via email so you remediate the errors before they cause problems. Furthermore, it can parse thousands of entries per second on a modern computer while receiving limited network bandwidth.

Pros of Datagram Syslog Server

  • Suitable for large enterprises with huge networks.
  • Has an intuitive interface that provides a live view of your network.
  • Allows you to filter messages based on factors such as priority, source, hostname, process, or using custom SQL queries.
  • Provides free trial and has a flexible enterprise pricing depending on the number of IP addresses.

Cons of Datagram Syslog Server

  • Limited documentation.
  • Has a steep learning curve for new users.

11. SNMP Syslog Watcher

Image Source: Ezfive.com

The SNMP Syslog Watcher is a dedicated Syslog server that collects log events from Linux, Windows, and Unix servers. This server supports most modern transport over the Syslog protocol, such as UDP and TCP. This tool has a multi-threaded 64-bit architecture that’s optimized for high loads. In essence, it can receive up to 100,000 Syslog messages per second. Besides the robust architecture, it delivers optimal performance consistently.

The SNMP Syslog Watcher has a central repository for all record event records. This simplifies system log analysis, enabling you to troubleshoot network issues in real time. Besides, it has a built-in, unlimited storage system that’s optimized to enable you to store a large number of collected Syslog messages. Alongside the data storage is a repository archive that automatically compresses Syslog messages allowing you to store more data.

Another useful feature is the flexible filtering system. This allows you to find problems easily and determine the root cause. It supports layout customization and colorization so you can have a seamless data visualization experience. Other handy features include quick search, data pagination, and advanced time interval controls.

Pros of SNMP Syslog Watcher

  • Variety of features ideal for large enterprises with numerous network devices.
  • Provides unlimited data storage to enable you to store system log messages for long .
  • Relatively inexpensive compared to other Syslog servers providing similar capabilities.
  • Rapid reporting feature that generates easy to understand reports.
  • Compatible with all operating systems.
  • Multithreading capabilities enable it to perform multiple operations simultaneously.

Cons of SNMP Syslog Watcher

  • It has limited event visualization features.
  • The high volume of logs makes the interface cluttered.

12. NXLog

Image Source: Nxlog.co

Up next with Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux is NXLog. Equally, a modern Syslog server that enables you to collect event data securely, reliably, and efficiently. It’s designed with a robust log collection technology that functions on all operating systems. Whether you are an average user or an enterprise system admin, this tool is suitable for you.

NXLog has a community edition that’s open source and free. This edition is suitable for small companies and startups with fewer network resources. On the other hand, it has an enterprise edition with lots of enhancements and features ideal for enterprise-level deployments. Some advanced features on the enterprise version include ODBC input and output modules, SNMP events, agent monitoring and management, and more.

Besides collecting Syslog data, NXLog integrates SIEM and log analytics products to process data seamlessly. Another feature is the NXLog Manager, which enables you to manage and monitor a large number of log collector agents. Using the NXLog manager, you can monitor the Enterprise Edition instances through a centralized web-based management console.

The NXLog Syslog Sever offers various add-on products to collect logs from solutions such as  Office 365, Microsoft Exchange, Azure, and Okta.

Pros of NXLog Server

  • Suitable for all types of companies, from start-ups to large enterprises.
  • Powerful architecture that integrates seamlessly with other third-party tools.
  • Choose between the Community and Enterprise Editions depending on individual business needs.
  • Integrated SIEM network security protocol to help secure data.
  • Comprehensive documentation.

Cons of NXLog

  • It lacks an interactive interface.
  • It does not provide event visualization.

13. Graylog

Image Source: Graylog.com

Then in Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux there is Graylog. Enterprise Syslog server designed for Linux systems. This server has a web interface where most of the interactions take place. It also has customizable dashboards where you can create a personalized network approach. This tool comes with high-end network monitoring and management features that set it apart from its competition. The most unique feature is the fail detector that alerts you in case there are faults or failed logs in the system.

Graylog is designed with security in mind. It has IP blocking capabilities that come in handy when it detects a possibility of an attack. This server has three components: Graylog service, MongoDB, and an ElasticSearch component. The service includes the user interface for management while the database stores configuration data. On the other hand, the ElasticSearch component facilitates data filtering and searching.

To receive data, all you need is to configure Syslog input in the console. Once configured, Graylog receives all types of log messages.

Pros of Graylog

  • The Enterprise version allows you to receive up to 5 GB of data per day for free.
  • It’s designed to protect your log data from security threats.
  • The open-source tool has a large community behind it that provides seamless support.
  • Has an intuitive browser-based dashboard that allows users to track their logs from any location.

Cons of Graylog

  • It has a relatively steep learning curve compared to other products.
  • The initial configuration can be quite challenging.

14. Fastvue

Image Source: Fastvue.co

Fastvue is a log management system with a simple web interface for accessing logs and archives and managing configurations. The server receives incoming messages from devices on the network and creates an event log. Unlike most complex tools, this server simplifies its operation. Basically, it gives you a simple tool for collecting event logs and a simple dashboard for monitoring.

Once you have monitored your log messages, you can choose to archive and examine the data further. Archive data comes in handy when you want to audit or discover additional historical patterns from your messages. The archival data is secured using encryption protocols alongside alerts that notify you when the data has been interfered with.

Pros of FastVue Syslog Server

  • Has a logically laid-out and easy-to-understand graphical user interface.
  • It keeps log files in easy to parse text files.
  • Available for free.
  • It has a simplified architecture that removes all overhead challenges that come with most  tools that require extra configurations.

Cons of FastVue Syslog Server

  • It lacks advanced visualization features.
  • Not suitable if you have thousands of logs per second that require analysis

15. FirstWave opEvents

FirstWave opEvents is a log manager that collects messages from a wide range of sources, including Windows Events and Syslog messages. This tool is part of a larger Network Management Information System (NMIS) that you must install on your systems. You can install opEvents on your on-premise systems and use its dashboard to identify log metrics. This tool reorganizes the incoming log messages in an intuitive format and stores them together. The dashboard has a data viewer with ‘sort’ and ‘filter’ functions that are ideal for data analysis.

OpEvents has attractive and colorful dashboard screens that combine log records with data graphics. This server allows you to create custom rules by building queries to check specific events on specific devices. Besides, it also supports manual event investigations, which helps system admins know how to investigate issues when dealing with large volumes of log data.

Pros of FirstWave opEvents

  • It has an open source version for small companies and start-ups, and an enterprise edition for large companies.
  • Provides automated event remediation.
  • Has a central monitoring dashboard to view all your metrics.
  • It has built-in security features to secure your data.

Cons of FirstWave opEvents

  • Get complex when using the automated features.
  • The interface gets cluttered easily.

16. Rsyslog

Image Source: Rsyslog.com

Also on this list in number 16 of the  Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux is Rsyslog (Rocket-Fast Syslog Server). In any case, it is a fast, high-performance server with a modular design and top-of-the-range security features. In any event, this server accepts inputs from multiple sources and transforms them to deliver interactive outputs. Thanks to its powerful architecture, this server deliver over one million messages per second with limited processing.

Regardless,  this server is an ideal option for Enterprises and individuals alike. In effect, it comes pre-installed in CentOS, and you don’t have to download it if you use this system. However, it lacks support for Windows systems but is highly useful for Linux.

Pros of Rsyslog

  • Powerful tool with both Enterprise and individual user features.
  • Comes pre-installed in CentOS systems.
  • Filter any part of a Syslog message.
  • Free and open source.

Cons of Rsyslog

  • Lacks Windows support.
  • Requires complex configurations.

17. Icinga 2

Image Source: Icinga 2

Icinga 2 is a log monitoring server that helps you check the availability and performance of your network resources. It notifies you of any outages and problems that may be affecting your network switches, firewall, and routers. In essence, this server is scalable and extensible and monitors large complex network environments across multiple locations.

Basically, it’s a complex data processor whose backend has a wide range of data management applications, including InfluxDB and Graphite. The Syslog server collects messages from different network devices. After collecting the messages, you can use third-party plugins for log processing. Also, you can choose the server’s web interface to channel results or use third-party data interpretation tools such as Kibana.

Pros of Icinga 2

  • Completely free for use.
  • Developers can extend its capabilities using plugins.
  • Provides high-level customization so you can prioritize inbound logs depending on severity.
  • Powered by a powerful engine that makes it ideal for monitoring Syslog messages.

Cons of Icinga 2

  • The interface isn’t easy to use.
  • It has a steep learning curve.

18. Logstash

Image Source: Elastic.co

Logstash is a Syslog server that’s part of the Elastic Stack (ELK) suite. The ELK suite also consists of Elasticsearch and Kibana. Logstash collects log messages, while Elasticsearch enables you to sort and filter them for analysis. Afterwards, Kibana interprets and displays the data intuitively.

In general, Logstash enables you to collect logs from different devices and servers, including Salesforce, Kafka, and AWS. Subsequently, you can configure Logstash to collect data through UDP or TCP. Besides, this server can read messages from RSS feeds and databases, and also pick up SNMP messages.

Pros of Logstash

  • Provides multiple opportunities for commercial users with large networks.
  • Highly visual and interactive interface.
  • The Elasticsearch tool used for filtering is highly flexible.
  • Provides multiple message formatting options.

Cons of Logstash

  • Does not come with live support and bug fixes are done by the community.
  • You have to install plugins for every data type you collect.
  • Not beginner friendly.

19. TFTPD32/64

Image Source: Github.io

TFTPD is a free tool kit program with multiple socket services, including Syslog collection. Small utility for Windows systems available in both 32-bit and 64-bit applications. While the main functionality is a TFTP client implementation, this server also receives Syslog data. Comes with a log viewer and storage for log messages. However, you cannot use it to collect Windows events.

Pros of TFTPD32/64

  • Lightweight utility for individual users.
  • Also use it for network file transfer.
  • It works well with IPv6 and IPv4 addresses.
  • Available for free.

Cons of TFTPD32/64

  • Has limited features compared to modern Syslog servers.
  • Provides limited functionality and is not useful if you have a large network.
  • Does not provide event visualization .
  • It does not have data analysis tools.

20. Loggly

Image Source: Loggly.com

Last on the list of Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid ) is Loggly. Surely, it is a Syslog server that provides the required infrastructure to aggregate log events. This tool comes with built in visualizations and threat based alerts to help you manage Syslog messages effectively. Configure it your Linux system to send log messages to this server through the default daemon installation. Once configured, this server aggregates data from  many devices and scans it to check for a wide array of performance metrics.

Basically, Loggly is designed to help you optimize the performance of your network devices. Loggly provides charts to help you compare performance data in real-time. This solution is well suited for performance focused Syslog analysis.

Pros of Loggly

  • Provides highly customisable dashboards.
  • Suitable for large scale network performance analysis.
  • Integrates with multiple data sources, including Windows, Mac, Linux, and cloud platforms.
  • Cloud based for easy scaling.
  • Easy to set up and use.

Cons of Loggly

  •  Lacks automation features.
  •  Does not have a free version beyond the 30-day free trial.

Benefits of Using a Syslog Server

Thereafter, understanding what is happening inside your network environment is vital to the overall health of your system. In short, using a Syslog server allows you to send multiple logs and event messages from your device to a localized unit.

Here are some of the benefits of using a Syslog server:

Cost Savings

All businesses work on minimizing operating costs. One of the handy ways to keep costs low is minimizing attacks as they always have detrimental cost effects. Data breach costs can skyrocket fast depending on the type of data exposed, sometimes, in millions of dollars. With syslog servers, you can always monitor network systems for anomalies and remediate issues that would otherwise impact your company negatively.

Minimizing Network Downtime

System downtime causes enormous damage to any company. Collecting system logs enables you to detect issues in real time before they create damage. After detecting issues, you troubleshoot and solve them and prevent what would otherwise be colossal damages. Understanding changes in log activity and being proactive can go a long way in reducing any problems that might afflict your system. With all insights into what’s happening inside your network, you can keep crucial business systems operating optimally.

Real Time Alerts

Undeniably, you configure Syslog servers to notify you whenever there is an issue in your network systems. With real time alerts, you receive notifications whenever there is an issue. These alerts are based on various rules that you configure and what you want to monitor. Through these alerts, you stay up to date with parameters such as time, location, and why the breach happened.

Increased Productivity

Gathering all the log files individually from each device and trying to merge them into a single file would be challenging. This is because of the sheer number of devices on a network. It would require too much effort to manually merge and search through millions of log files.

This is where a Syslog server proves to be useful. A Syslog server provides a singe location to view and manage all log files. The system administrators can then filter, classify, or archive the files, or work on areas of concern within the network systems.

How to Choose a Syslog Server

There are a number of factors to consider when selecting a Syslog server. These include:

Business Size

The size of business is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a Syslog server. Large businesses with many network devices require robust, high performance Syslog servers that manage the scale of log messages. Therefore, big companies with large networks are better off with large networks, while startups and small businesses benefit from lightweight tools that are available for free or lowly prized.

However, there are some tools with multiple editions to accommodate both small and heavy users. Therefore, it’s best to consider the size of business operations and how many log messages you handle before settling for a server.

Technical Support

Well, Syslog servers require multiple configurations to function properly. In this case, there is always a lot that can go wrong, hence the need for live support. Servers that come with live support are a better choice for your operations as you are assured of assistance whenever there is a mishap. Most premium tools come with live support, but it’s always advisable to check before choosing. Besides live support, also check if the server has proper documentation that guides you on how to use it.

Storage

Data storage is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a Syslog server. Ideally, most servers come with bundled databases for log data storage. Such tools come in handy if you want to store log files for further examination or archive them for compliance purposes. Therefore, it’s best to choose servers that provide unlimited storage so you can store a large amount of log files.

Thank you for reading Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid ). We will conclude.

Top 20 Best Syslog Servers for Windows / Linux (Free & Paid) Conclusion

Having a central location for your Syslog messages is one of the best ways to improve incident management and network performance. With custom alerting features and automation capabilities, these servers come in handy. However, there are lots of Syslog servers available, and these are just some of the best for Windows or Linux systems.

Therefore, you should leverage the factors mentioned above to choose the best Syslog server for your network management. Each server has its advantages and downsides, so it’s best to consider how each of those comes into play when managing network resources.

For more monitoring tips like these, read our blog.

Avatar for Dennis Muvaa
Dennis Muvaa

Dennis is an expert content writer and SEO strategist in cloud technologies such as AWS, Azure, and GCP. He's also experienced in cybersecurity, big data, and AI.

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