Modern IT infrastructures rely on Linux, macOS, and various Unix-derivative operating systems to handle critical workloads. Monitoring these systems securely, continuously, and measurably has become essential for organizations. PRTG's SSH sensors provide a solution that addresses this need precisely, standing out with features like encrypted communication, strong authentication, and detailed data collection.

Sensors operating over the encrypted SSH protocol enable administrators to collect detailed performance data, execute custom scripts, and verify the status of critical services. Moreover, they accomplish this without requiring additional agent installation on target systems or opening extra services.

Since a significant portion of today's IT infrastructures is based on Unix-like systems, SSH-based monitoring has become a critical component for maintaining system stability and increasing operational visibility.

Purpose of SSH Sensors in PRTG

The primary purpose of SSH sensors is to enable PRTG to securely connect to remote systems and obtain system metrics directly from the operating system. Through SSH connections, PRTG can:

Execute commands

Read system files

Collect performance indicators in real-time

This structure provides significant advantages in terms of both security and accuracy. SSH sensors offer an ideal solution particularly in environments where SNMP, WMI, or other monitoring protocols are restricted or insufficient.

Additionally, through encrypted communication, minimal attack surface, and deep system behavior observation capabilities, they meet organizations' security expectations.

Core Capabilities

PRTG offers various SSH-based sensors for different needs:

System Performance Monitoring

SSH Load Average Sensor: Measures system load at standard intervals.

SSH Meminfo Sensor: Obtains memory usage directly from system resources.

SSH Disk Free Sensor: Tracks disk capacity and detects storage risks.

Service and Script-Based Monitoring

SSH Script Sensor: Monitors application, log, or process states by executing custom scripts developed by administrators.

SSH Custom Sensor: Provides a flexible structure for collecting any metrics obtainable through command output.

Network and Application Health

Thanks to script-supported control mechanisms, SSH sensors can:

Verify the status of services like Nginx, Apache, and databases

Monitor network socket usage

Test internal API responses

These features create a powerful solution for customized monitoring scenarios beyond standard protocols.

Thanks to the operational logic of SSH sensors:

All communication is encrypted

High accuracy is ensured as data is obtained directly from the operating system

No additional service installation is required

Why is SSH-Based Monitoring Important?

SSH sensors are particularly advantageous for organizations that prioritize operational integrity and security.

Secure Data Transmission

SSH encrypts transmitted information and eliminates the risk of unauthorized access.

Minimal Attack Surface

Unlike SNMP or proprietary agents, SSH uses a single manageable port and requires no additional services.

High Data Quality

Results are consistent and accurate because data is obtained directly from the operating system.

Script Flexibility

Administrators can extend monitoring scope by writing scripts for custom applications or processes.

For these reasons, SSH-based monitoring is frequently preferred in organizations with compliance requirements or those needing detailed insights.

Conclusion

PRTG SSH sensors offer a secure, flexible, and comprehensive monitoring approach for Unix-based infrastructures. Through encrypted SSH connections and the ability to collect data at the operating system level, they provide administrators with detailed visibility, reliable performance measurement, and powerful script integration.

For organizations seeking an effective monitoring solution compliant with modern security and operational standards, SSH-based monitoring is one of PRTG's most important components.