• Company
    • About Us
    • Case Studies
    • Press Center
    • Events
    • Careers
    • Blog
    • Contact us
  • Contact us
  • Login
 
  • English
    • Deutsch
    • Español
    • Français
    • Italiano
    • Português
Paessler
                    - The Monitoring Experts
  • Products
    • Paessler PRTG
      Paessler PRTGMonitor your whole IT infrastructure
      • PRTG Network Monitor
      • PRTG Enterprise Monitor
      • PRTG Hosted Monitor
      • PRTG extensionsExtensions for Paessler PRTGExtend your monitoring to a new level
    • Icon Features
      FeaturesExplore all monitoring features
      • Maps & dashboards
      • Alerts & notifications
      • Multiple user interfaces
      • Distributed monitoring
      • Customizable reporting
  • Solutions
    • Industries
      IndustriesMonitor various industry sectors
      • Industrial
      • Healthcare
      • Data Center
      • Education
      • Finance
      • Government
    • IT Topics
      IT TopicsMonitor all areas of IT
      • Network Monitoring
      • Bandwidth Monitoring
      • SNMP Monitor
      • Network Mapping
      • WiFi Monitoring
      • Server Monitoring
  • Pricing
  • Resources
    • Getting Started
      Getting StartedModules for self-paced learning
    • How-to Guides
      How-to GuidesGet the most out of PRTG
    • Videos & Webinars
      Videos & WebinarsLearn from Paessler experts
    • IT  Knowledge
      IT KnowledgeExpand your IT knowledge
    • PRTG Manual
      PRTG ManualFull documentation
    • Knowledge Base
      Knowledge BaseShare community knowledge
    • PRTG Sensor Hub
      PRTG Sensor HubGet sensors, scripts & templates
    • Trainings
      PRTG TrainingLearn how to work with PRTG
  • Partners
    • icon star
      New Partners and MSPBecome a new partner or MSP
    • icon partner
      Partner PortalLog in to your partner account
    • Deal Registration
      Deal RegistrationRegister your sales opportunities
    • icon search
      Find a PartnerFind partners selling Paessler products
    • icon technology
      Technology AlliancesSee Paessler technology partnerships
  • Company
    • About Us
    • Case Studies
    • Press Center
    • Events
    • Careers
    • Blog
    • Contact us
  • Contact us
  • Login
  • English
    • Deutsch
    • Español
    • Français
    • Italiano
    • Português
  • Get a quote
  • Free trial
  1. Home>
  2. IT Topics>
  3. Network>
  4. Local Network Scanner
PRTG Logo

Local Network Scanner with PRTG

Scan and monitor all IP addresses in your network with PRTG to maintain complete visibility of every connected device

  • Detect rogue devices that attempt to access your network without authorization
  • Schedule automatic network scans at custom intervals to track changes
  • Monitor port status to identify potential security risks and unauthorized access
Free download
PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Our users give top ratings for monitoring with Paessler PRTG

Gartner peer insights
spiceworks
G2
Capterra

PRTG local network scanner: What you will find on this page

Table of content
  • Take control of your network with comprehensive device scanning and monitoring
  • What local network scanning looks like in PRTG
  • 4 reasons why PRTG is the network scanner tool of your choice
  • Explore our preconfigured PRTG sensors for local network scanning
  • Local Network Scanner: FAQ

PRTG makes local network scanning as easy as it gets

Custom alerts and data visualization let you quickly identify and prevent network outages and unauthorized devices | security vulnerabilities and performance bottlenecks.

Free download
PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Take control of your network with comprehensive device scanning and monitoring

Are you confident you know every device connected to your network right now? With the PRTG local network scanner, you can automatically discover and monitor all devices across your entire infrastructure, from servers and workstations to routers and unauthorized access points that might otherwise remain hidden.

Icon magnifying glass

Auto-discovery

PRTG scans your entire network and identifies all connected devices, eliminating the need for manual configuration. Schedule regular scans to maintain an up-to-date inventory of your network assets and receive immediate alerts when new devices appear. The auto-discovery feature saves hours of manual work while ensuring that nothing escapes your attention.

icon maps

Comprehensive visualization

Transform complex network data into clear, actionable insights with customizable maps and dashboards. Create visual representations of your network topology to show device relationships, monitor status in real time, and quickly identify potential issues before they affect operations. The map designer make complex networks easy to understand at a glance.

Icon cpu usage

Performance monitoring

Monitor the health and performance of all discovered devices to ensure optimal network operation. PRTG monitors critical metrics such as CPU usage, memory consumption, and response times for each device on your network. Establish performance baselines and receive alerts when devices differ from normal operation to address issues before users notice any impact.

icon document

Detailed reporting

Generate comprehensive reports on your network inventory, device performance, and security status in just a few clicks. With PRTG, you can create scheduled reports for stakeholders, document your network for compliance purposes, and track changes over time. Its detailed reporting capabilities provide the documentation you need for audits, capacity planning, and infrastructure management.

What local network scanning looks like in PRTG

Diagnose network issues by continuously tracking devices, IP addresses and open ports. Show device availability and other key metrics in real time. Visualize monitoring data in clear graphs and dashboards to identify problems more easily. Gain the overview you need to troubleshoot network bottlenecks and performance degradation.

PRTG Screenshot Map Network Topology

Overview of network topology in PRTG

PRTG Screenshot device tree view

Device tree view of the complete monitoring setup

PRTG screenshot map entire it infrastructure

Custom PRTG dashboard for keeping an eye on the entire IT infrastructure

PRTG screenshot graph live data traffic

Live traffic data graph in PRTG

Start monitoring your entire network infrastructure with PRTG and see how it can make your network more reliable and your job easier.

Free download
PRODUCT OVERVIEW

IT experts agree: Paessler PRTG is a great solution for IT infrastructure monitoring

PCMag

“All-around winning
 network monitor”

IT Brief

“The real beauty of PRTG is the endless possibilities it offers”

ITPro

“PRTG Network Monitor 
is very hard to beat”

4 reasons why PRTG is the network scanner tool of your choice

Have you ever tried to track down a network issue, only to discover that it was caused by a device you didn't even know existed? Managing local networks can be a nightmare when unauthorized devices connect, IP conflicts occur, or outdated firmware creates security vulnerabilities. Even worse, the pressure to resolve network outages quickly can be overwhelming if you lack proper visibility.

icon setup

Easy setup

Deploy PRTG in minutes using the auto-discovery feature, which automatically finds and maps your entire network. No extensive technical knowledge is required to get started, as the intuitive interface will guide you through the configuration process. The straightforward setup allows you to start monitoring your network devices almost immediately after installation.

Icon pricing

Flexible licensing

Select a subscription model that meets your specific needs so you don't pay for unnecessary features. Start with the free version, which includes 100 sensors, and upgrade when your monitoring needs increase. Our transparent pricing structure ensures predictable costs while allowing you to scale your monitoring solution.

Icon phone

Mobile access

Use the PRTG mobile apps for iOS and Android devices to monitor your network from anywhere. Receive real-time alerts about network issues directly on your smartphone and respond quickly, even when you're away from your desk. The mobile interface provides the same comprehensive view of your network as you would have in the office.

Icon support

Expert support

Get the help you need when you encounter setup challenges or need assistance optimizing your local network monitoring configuration. Take advantage of extensive documentation, active user forums, and direct support channels staffed by technical experts who specialize in local network environments. Resolve issues quickly with a support team that consistently receives high satisfaction ratings from customers worldwide.

Explore our preconfigured PRTG sensors for local network scanning

PRTG comes with more than 250 native sensor types for monitoring your entire on-premises, cloud, and hybrid cloud environment out of the box. Check out some examples below!

Ping v2

The Ping v2 sensor sends an Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) echo request ("ping") from the probe system to the parent device to monitor its availability. It can show the following:

• Response time

• Packet loss

• Target status

• Minimum and maximum ping time

Ping v2
Ping v2

Port Range

The Port Range sensor monitors a network service by connecting to various TCP/IP ports. It tries to connect to the specified TCP/IP port numbers of a device in succession and waits for the device to accept each request. It can show the following:

  • Time until requests to ports are accepted
  • Number of open and closed ports
Port Range
Port Range

SNMP Traffic v2

The SNMP Traffic v2 sensor monitors bandwidth and traffic on a device. It can show the following:

  • Number of incoming and outgoing broadcast, multicast, unicast, and non-unicast packets
  • Number of incoming and outgoing discards and errors
  • Total, incoming, and outgoing traffic
  • Number of incoming, unknown protocols
SNMP Traffic v2
SNMP Traffic v2

Packet Sniffer

The Packet Sniffer sensor monitors the headers of data packets that pass a local network card using a built-in packet sniffer. You can choose from predefined channels. It can show the following and more:

  • Traffic from Citrix applications
  • Traffic from file transfer (FTP/P2P) and various other protocols (UDP, TCP)
  • Traffic from network services (DHCP, DNS, Ident, ICMP, SNMP)
  • Internet mail traffic (IMAP, POP3, SMTP)
  • Traffic from remote control applications (RDP, SSH, Telnet, Virtual Network Computing (VNC))
Packet Sniffer
Packet Sniffer

Port v2

The Port v2 sensor monitors a network service by connecting to one or more of its TCP/IP ports. It can show the following:

  • Number of open and closed ports
  • Number of errors
  • Maximum time until a request to connect to a port was accepted
Port v2
Port v2

See the PRTG Manual for a list of all available sensor types.

PRTG is compatible with all major vendors, products, and systems

compatible with all major vendors, products, and systems

PRTG makes IP address and device detection as easy as it gets

Custom alerts and data visualization let you quickly identify and prevent network outages and unauthorized devices | security vulnerabilities and performance bottlenecks.

Free download
PRODUCT OVERVIEW

”Adopting PRTG has been like going from being in the dark to being in the light. Before, we had limited visibility into what was happening in the infrastructure and in the network. Now, however, thanks to the comprehensive dashboard and real-time notifications, we receive constant updates on the status of facilities and services, and our way of working has gone from passive to proactive.”

Luca Meneghesso, Senior IT infrastructure and Security Specialist
Banca Profilo

”GESAC increasingly focuses on innovation to improve the quality of services offered and the experience of passengers handled every day by Naples Airport. Thanks to PRTG, we finally have unified, automatic, and continuous monitoring of the airport network and can guarantee quick and timely interventions.”

Domenico Ciervo, GESAC ICT Manager
Naples International Airport

”As an international company, PRTG is ideal for us. If something went down half way across the world, we wouldn’t be woken up – we can rely on PRTG to identify the problem and alert us before it occurs – enabling the right person, in the right time zone to resolve the problem. At the end of the day, if we’re to provide an internal network experience for our employees that meets expectations, we need a tool like PRTG to be successful.”

Barry Kelly, Systems Engineer
Skyscanner

“I would recommend PRTG because it has helped us significantly improve service uptime by highlighting important alerts that would otherwise result in a system failure or service disruption if action was not taken. Thanks to PRTG, we can ensure that The Ritz London’s network and IT systems are five-star, just like the hotel.”

Richard Isted, IT Manager
The Ritz London

Your local network scanner at a glance – even on the go

PRTG is set up in a matter of minutes and can be used on a wide variety of mobile devices.

device overview

Create innovative solutions with Paessler’s IT partners

Partnering with innovative IT vendors, Paessler unleashes synergies to create
new and additional benefits for joined customers.

Rittal

Rittal

IT that works constitutes a business-critical basis for a company's success. Availability and security must be defined for the respective purpose and closely monitored – by OT and IT alike.

Read more
UVnetworks

UVnetworks

UVexplorer integrates tightly with PRTG to bring fast and accurate network discovery, detailed device inventory, and automatic network mapping to the PRTG platform.

Read more
NetBrain

NetBrain

Integrating monitoring results from PRTG into NetBrain maps makes the foundation for network automation.

Read more

Find the root cause of the problem with our PRTG comprehensive network scanning solution

Real-time notifications mean faster troubleshooting so that you can act before more serious issues occur.

Free download
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Paessler PRTG

Paessler PRTG

Network Monitoring Software – Version 25.3.110.1313 (August 27, 2025)

Hosting icon

Hosting

Download for Windows and cloud-based version PRTG Hosted Monitor available

Languages icon

Languages

English, German, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, Russian, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese

test

Monitor everything

Network devices, bandwidth, servers, applications, virtual environments, remote systems, IoT, and more

test

Pricing

Choose the PRTG Network Monitor subscription that's best for you

Local Network Scanner: FAQ

 

What is a local network scanner?

A local network scanner is a tool that helps you discover and identify all devices connected to your local network. It works by scanning IP ranges to detect active devices, identifying their IP addresses, MAC addresses, and other information like open ports. Network administrators use these tools to maintain network security, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and create comprehensive device inventories across Windows, Linux, and macOS environments.

How does PRTG scan my local network for devices?

PRTG uses multiple technologies to scan networks, including ping scans across defined IP ranges, port scanning to detect opened ports, and protocol-specific detection methods. The auto-discovery feature automatically scans your subnet to find all connected devices, including wifi routers from vendors like TP-Link and Ubiquiti. PRTG can identify device types, operating systems, and even track mac addresses across different network segments for complete visibility.

Can I scan different types of networks with PRTG?

Yes, PRTG works with various network types and operating systems. You can scan Windows networks, Linux environments, and wifi networks with equal effectiveness. PRTG detects devices across different subnets and can monitor remote networks through distributed probes. Whether you need to monitor corporate networks or home wifi routers, PRTG provides comprehensive scanning capabilities for complete network visibility.

What information can I get from scan results?

PRTG scan results provide detailed information about each discovered device, including IP address, MAC address, hostname, operating system, and opened ports. You can see which devices are currently active, detect unauthorized devices, and identify potential security risks like vulnerable open ports. The scan results also show network topology, allowing you to visualize connections between devices and troubleshoot connectivity issues using tools like traceroute and UDP testing.

Can I run network scans from the command-line?

While PRTG primarily uses its web interface, you can automate network scanning through the PRTG API using command-line scripts. This allows network administrators to schedule regular scans, generate reports, and integrate scanning into existing workflows. For quick ad-hoc scanning, PRTG also offers an advanced IP scanner interface that provides immediate results without complex configuration.

How does PRTG help with network security?

PRTG enhances network security by continuously scanning for unauthorized devices, detecting opened ports that could be exploited, and alerting you to unexpected changes in your network. The port scanning capabilities help identify vulnerable services, while MAC address tracking prevents address spoofing. PRTG also monitors network traffic patterns to detect potential security threats and can send immediate alerts when suspicious devices connect to your network.

Can I download PRTG for free to try network scanning?

Yes, PRTG offers a free download with a fully functional trial that includes all network scanning features. After the trial period, it automatically converts to a free version with 100 sensors that never expire. This allows you to scan your network, detect devices, monitor critical systems, and even use features like wake-on-LAN to remotely power on devices or initiate a reboot when needed. The free version is perfect for small networks or to evaluate the scanning capabilities before upgrading.

What is a sensor in PRTG?

In PRTG, “sensors” are the basic monitoring elements. One sensor usually monitors one measured value in your network, for example the traffic of a switch port, the CPU load of a server, or the free space on a disk drive. On average, you need about 5-10 sensors per device or one sensor per switch port.

We asked: would you recommend PRTG? Over 95% of our customers say yes!

Paessler conducted trials in over 600 IT departments worldwide to tune its network monitoring software closer to the needs of sysadmins. The result of the survey: over 95% of the participants would recommend PRTG – or already have.

recommendation

Still not convinced?

Love

More than 500,000 sysadmins love PRTG

Paessler PRTG is used by companies of all sizes. Sysadmins love PRTG because it makes their job a whole lot easier.

PRTG

Monitor your entire IT infrastructure

Bandwidth, servers, virtual environments, websites, VoIP services – PRTG keeps an eye on your entire network.

test

Try Paessler PRTG for free

Everyone has different monitoring needs. That’s why we let you try PRTG for free.

PRTG Logo

Start local network scanning with PRTG and see how it can make your network more reliable and your job easier.

Free download
PRODUCT OVERVIEW

Products

  • Paessler PRTG
    Paessler PRTGMonitor your whole IT infrastructure
    • PRTG Network Monitor
    • PRTG Enterprise Monitor
    • PRTG Hosted Monitor
    • PRTG extensions
      Extensions for Paessler PRTGExtend your monitoring to a new level
  • Icon Features
    FeaturesExplore all monitoring features

Monitoring with PRTG

  • Network monitoring
  • Bandwidth monitoring
  • SNMP monitoring
  • Network mapping
  • Wi-Fi monitoring
  • Server monitoring
  • Network traffic analyzer
  • NetFlow monitoring
  • Syslog server

Useful Links

  • PRTG Manual
  • Knowledge Base
  • Customer Success Stories
  • About Paessler
  • Subscribe to newsletter
  • PRTG Support
  • PRTG Consulting
  • PRTG Feedback & Roadmap

Contact

Paessler GmbH
Thurn-und-Taxis-Str. 14, 
90411 Nuremberg 
Germany

info@paessler.com

+49 911 93775-0

  • Contact us
©2025 Paessler GmbHTerms & ConditionsPrivacy PolicyImprintReport VulnerabilityDownload & InstallSitemap
404 - Page not found 404 - Page not found 404 - Page not found