NetWatcher

NetWatcher is a basic networking utility that gives you the possibility to monitor any computer in the local network that supports echo via TCP/UDP. You can find out for how long a server has been running as well as calculate response times by sending ping commands.

The application gets integrated into the system tray and lets you know if the server is online or offline using visual cues.

Following a quick setup operation that shouldn't give you any issues, you're welcomed by a user-friendly interface made from one window with a plain and simple layout.

All you have to do is enter the IP address or host name of the computer you want to monitor, as well as the checkup frequency, timeout and packet size.

After clicking the "Start" button, NetWatcher opens a new area to show statistics. You can check out the number of returns, hits and misses, as well as the last, shortest and longest time.

By default, this window stays on top of other applications but you can disable this option. The ping utility creates an icon in the systray, which has a green check or red dash, depending on whether or not the server is responding to ping signals.

The tool hasn't received updates for a pretty long time. Nevertheless, we haven't come across any compatibility issues with the newest Windows edition. It worked errorless and had minimal impact on the computer's performance.

However, NetWatcher's outdated look may put off users, even if it's typically more important for networking tools to focus on functionality rather than looks. It can be easily used, even by those with minimal experience in server monitoring programs.