20 Must Have Tools for SysAdmins

20 IT Tools for SysAdmins

Below, we explore the 20 tools that every SysAdmin should have in their toolbox.

1. WireShark

Wireshark is a widely recognized and highly regarded network protocol analyzer that enables users to closely monitor and analyze network activity. It provides in-depth insights into network traffic, offering real-time analysis and decoding of various protocols. With its ability to capture and inspect network packets, Wireshark is commonly used in diverse industries and educational institutions. Additionally, it is compatible with multiple operating systems, including OS X, Windows, and Unix.

2. FileZilla

Filezilla is an FTP client and server that holds a GPL license. Its capability to connect to secure SSH hosts makes it an excellent option for granting access to clients who prefer GUI interfaces over CLI.

3. Fiddler

Fiddler is a local proxy server designed for developers to facilitate debugging of web applications. It is particularly useful when dealing with multiple applications or processes that can alter form values, as it allows for real-time observation of the transmitted output. Additionally, when working with a remote API, Fiddler enables the composition and replay of requests according to specific requirements.

4. Sysinternals Suite

The Sysinternals Suite is a useful set of tools for sysadmins on Windows hosts. It includes utilities for tasks like file and disk management, network troubleshooting, process monitoring, security measures, and gathering system information. Among these tools, Autoruns.exe stands out as it helps identify automatically starting programs.

5. Lepide Change Reporter (Freeware)

Lepide Change Reporter helps to identify and respond to potentially damaging changes made by users to Active Directory, Group Policy, and Exchange Server. The 360-View Radar allows for quick identification of changes made to systems in one place. Lepide Change Reporter is highly scalable as you can run multiple instances of the freeware simultaneously and search for specific reports in the Reports Tree.

6. Mosh

Those who use SSH will know how unstable their remote sessions can be, as a simple interruption in wifi connection causes them to disconnect. However, Mosh is a secure alternative protocol that not only enables the continuation of sessions but also enhances overall performance. Mosh is accessible on nearly all platforms and even has a Chrome plugin to ensure maximum flexibility.

7. ManageEngine OS Deployer

ManageEngine OS Deployer is software that allows for easy and automated deployment of operating systems. It supports capturing and deploying images, and also has multicast deployment capabilities. The software also includes pre- and post-deployment tasks, and allows for remote deployment.

8. Ansible

Ansible is a Python-based IT automation tool that simplifies system configuration, software deployment, and workflow management. It prioritizes simplicity, security, and reliability. It uses OpenSSH as its default transport and employs a user-friendly language for quick deployment without extensive training.

9. Lepide Account Lockout Examiner (Freeware)

Lepide’s Account Lockout Examiner is a tool that helps detect and resolve account lockouts in Active Directory environments. It scans the system in real time, identifies the cause of lockouts on endpoints, and allows remote unlocking of accounts and password resets. The tool is free of charge and is always available.

10. Notepad ++

Notepad++ is a text editor that offers features such as syntax highlighting, auto-completion, multi-document editing, split-screen view, and search and replace functionality.

11. PowerShell IS

PowerShell is a versatile tool comprising a command-line shell, a scripting language, and a task automation platform. It also supports object-oriented programming and offers an extensive library of commands.

12. Slack

Slack offers a platform for team communication and collaboration through organized channels, one-on-one messaging, file sharing, and voice and video calling.

13. PRTG Network Monitor

PRTG Network Monitor is a user-friendly solution that efficiently monitors networks. It allows users to oversee their entire network infrastructure, including systems, devices, and data traffic. It is particularly suitable for small and medium-sized environments.

14. RSAT Tools for Windows 10

The RSAT Tools for Windows 10 is a suite of tools that allow users to remotely manage Windows servers, actively administer Active Directory, manage Group Policies, control DNS and DHCP settings, as well as manage Hyper-V virtual servers.

15. 7-Zip

7-Zip is a software solution that allows users to compress and decompress files. It supports various file formats and offers a high compression ratio. Additionally, it provides password encryption for enhanced security and the ability to split and combine files.

16. TreeSize

Treesize is a tool that allows you to visualize the usage of disk space in a Windows Explorer style interface by examining the NTFS file system. It retrieves information from the Master File Table of the selected computer, enabling quicker results without requiring permissions to read the actual content.

17. KeePass

KeePass is an open-source password manager that enables you to create highly secure, random passwords for each website or application. By securely storing your passwords, KeePass eliminates the need to remember or write down numerous complex passwords. If you require sharing your password file with others or accessing it from various places, you can keep it on a DataAnywhere share for convenient access.

18. Process Explorer

Process Explorer provides details on the handles and DLLs that processes have either opened or loaded. Its exceptional features make it valuable for identifying issues with DLL versions or handle leaks, as well as gaining an understanding of how Windows and applications function.

19. Event Log Manager (Freeware)

Lepide’s Event Log Manager allows you to collect event logs from various sources and bring them together into one place. It also provides real-time monitoring of logs, allowing you to track events as they happen. The tool offers advanced analysis capabilities to help you find trends and anomalies in your log data.

20. Sysdig

Sysdig is a system level management tool that is open source. It enables users to easily capture, filter, and save the various processes active within a Linux machine at any given time. Sysdig simplifies tasks such as keeping track of file access in a directory. Additionally, users can use Lua scripts to customize and enhance the core functionality of Sysdig.