Zeek vs. PathSolutions TotalView

Zeek, formerly referred to as Bro, is regarded as the leading platform for network security monitoring. This flexible, open-source tool is developed by a community of individuals committed to enhancing cybersecurity measures. Originating in the 1990s, it was created by Vern Paxson with the aim of understanding traffic patterns on university and national laboratory networks. In late 2018, the name was officially changed from Bro to Zeek to reflect its evolution and the progress it had made. Unlike traditional security measures like firewalls or intrusion prevention systems, Zeek functions in a passive manner by being installed on a sensor, which could be a hardware, software, virtual, or cloud-based platform, that quietly observes network traffic. Through the analysis of the data it captures, Zeek produces succinct, high-quality logs of transactions, file contents, and customizable outputs ideal for manual review on storage systems or through more intuitive tools such as security information and event management (SIEM) systems. This distinctive method provides a comprehensive understanding of network activities without disrupting the flow of traffic, making it invaluable for cybersecurity professionals. As a result, Zeek continues to evolve, integrating new features that enhance its effectiveness and usability in the ever-changing landscape of network security.

TotalView provides comprehensive network monitoring and straightforward root-cause analysis of issues, using clear, accessible language. This solution tracks every device and all interfaces associated with those devices, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Furthermore, TotalView delves deep by gathering 19 different error counters, along with performance metrics, configuration details, and connectivity data, allowing for a holistic view of the network. An integrated heuristics engine processes this wealth of information to deliver clear, easily understandable insights into problems. With this system, even junior engineers can tackle complex issues, freeing up senior engineers to concentrate on higher-level strategic initiatives. The main product encompasses all essential tools required for maintaining an optimally functioning network, including configuration management, server and cloud service monitoring, IP address management (IPAM), NetFlow analysis, path mapping, and diagramming capabilities. By utilizing TotalView, you can achieve complete visibility of your network, enabling you to resolve issues more swiftly and efficiently, ultimately enhancing overall network performance.