GlassWire vs PRTG Network Monitor

GlassWire is a network monitoring and personal firewall application for Windows and Android that visualizes current and past network activity to help users spot malware, bandwidth hogs, and unfamiliar devices on their network. Its firewall includes an ask-to-connect mode that lets users approve or deny individual apps' network access, alongside a network time machine for reviewing historical connections. GlassWire also tracks data usage across devices and can alert users before they exceed set data limits, while its network scanner flags new or unknown devices joining a WiFi network. Over 53 million downloads have been recorded for the Windows and Android apps combined.

PRTG Network Monitor provides comprehensive visibility into your entire IT infrastructure, from bandwidth and servers to applications and cloud services. Its sensor‑based approach lets you monitor virtually any device or service with minimal configuration. The solution offers real‑time alerts, customizable dashboards, and extensive reporting, helping IT professionals quickly identify and resolve issues before they impact users. Integrated with VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft Azure, PRTG fits seamlessly into modern hybrid environments.

• Combines network monitoring and firewall in one lightweight app
• Very affordable premium pricing at $2.99/month
• Visual, easy-to-understand traffic graphs
• Available on both Windows and Android

• Extensive library of ready‑made sensors
• Highly customizable alerts and dashboards
• Free tier supports up to 100 sensors
• Strong integration with major virtualization and cloud platforms

• Free tier limits network history to just 24 hours
• Windows and Android only, no Mac or Linux support
• Advanced threat detection features require Premium

• License cost can rise quickly for large sensor counts
• Initial setup may be complex for beginners
• Web interface can be slower on very large installations