NetFlow collectors can either be software-based or hardware-based. These records are then collected with a NetFlow collector, which processes and reformats the data, so it can be interpreted more easily by the user of the tool. NetFlow-enabled network devices will generate records of their NetFlow, which the router exports. Some software developers call their tool a NetFlow collector, while others call it a NetFlow analyzer-some even combine the two, so don’t let this confuse you. Both terms refer to a reporting server collecting and analyzing traffic data, making it easier for the user to troubleshoot.

Generally speaking, the two are synonymous and serve a similar purpose. NetFlow analyzers and NetFlow collectors contribute to overall NetFlow monitoring practices. For instance, an application requiring a substantial amount of bandwidth to be downloaded might be considered a bandwidth hog. The term “bandwidth hog” generally refers to people misusing the network (e.g., users who download large files regularly) but can also apply to files with long download times, or applications requiring a large amount of system resources to run and be maintained. Such misuse has the potential to result in network congestion. They’re also called “heavy internet users.” Bandwidth hogging could involve streaming YouTube, downloading torrents within the LAN environment, or anything using a disproportionate or inappropriate amount of bandwidth. Skip to the 6 Best NetFlow Analyzers and Collectors List > What Are Bandwidth Hogs?īandwidth hogs, as their name suggests, are individuals hogging the bandwidth.

You’ll gain increased visibility into bandwidth hogs and bandwidth allocation, which means you’ll be able to identify and prevent any further abuse potentially impacting the performance of your network. With the help of NetFlow collector and NetFlow analyzer tools, you’ll be able to visualize where network traffic ends up, the source of the traffic, and how much is being generated. Analyzing flow data with NetFlow gives you comprehensive insight into network traffic flow and volume. It’s an efficient and popular way of gaining both a broad and detailed picture of what’s happening in your network. NetFlow, developed by Cisco, is a network protocol designed for the collection of IP traffic information and the monitoring of network traffic.

Network flow analyzer