Every system admin has their favourite tools—those trusty apps that make the job easier and keep things running smoothly.
We’ve put together a fun list of free tools for both Windows and Mac that can help you manage your systems more efficiently. These tools are powerful and time-saving, helping you get the job done faster so you can focus on what matters most.
Why Free tools?
Free tools are a great option for several reasons. First, they reduce costs, which is especially important for small businesses or independent IT professionals.
Second, many free tools are open-source, allowing for customization to fit specific needs.
Lastly, free tools often have active communities that provide support, share tips and contribute to ongoing development.
Top Free Tools for Windows
mRemoteNG
Functionality: mRemoteNG is a remote connections manager that supports various protocols such as RDP, VNC, and SSH, among others.
Advantages: With mRemoteNG, you can manage multiple remote connections from a single interface. This tool simplifies the process of switching between different systems and protocols, making your workflow more efficient.
PuTTY
Functionality: PuTTY is a terminal emulator that supports network protocols like SSH and telnet.
Advantages: PuTTY is lightweight and highly reliable, making it a staple tool for system administrators who need secure remote access to servers.
Spiceworks
Functionality: Spiceworks provides network monitoring, help desk services, and inventory management.
Advantages: It is easy to use, offers a comprehensive set of tools for IT management, and has a supportive community for troubleshooting.
Top Free Tools for Mac
iTerm2
Functionality: iTerm2 is an advanced terminal emulator for macOS that offers enhanced features compared to the default Terminal.
Advantages: Term2 includes features like split panes, hotkeys, and extensive customisation options, making it an essential tool for power users.
Cyberduck
Functionality: Cyberduck is a file transfer client that supports protocols like FTP, SFTP, and WebDAV.
Advantages: Cyberduck integrates seamlessly with macOS, providing an intuitive interface for managing file transfers. It’s particularly useful for those who frequently work with remote servers.
Homebrew
Functionality: Homebrew is a package manager for macOS that simplifies the installation and management of software.
Advantages: With Homebrew, installing and managing software is as easy as typing a few commands. It’s a must-have tool for anyone who wants to streamline their software management on a Mac.
Cross-Platform Tools
Wireshark
Functionality: Wireshark is a network protocol analyser used to capture and analyse network traffic.
Advantages: This tool is invaluable for troubleshooting network issues and understanding network behaviour. Its detailed analysis capabilities make it a favourite among network administrators.
Attune
Functionality: Attune is an system administration automation tool designed to simplify complex system administration tasks, including configuration management, application deployment, and workflow automation.
Advantages: Attune is versatile and easy to use, making it an excellent choice for automating repetitive tasks. This tool can significantly reduce the time spent on manual processes, freeing you up for more critical work.
FileZilla
Functionality: FileZilla is an FTP client that supports FTP, FTPS, and SFTP.
Advantages: FileZilla’s user-friendly interface and robust feature set make it an excellent choice for transferring files between your local system and remote servers.
Maximising the Use of Free Tools
To get the most out of these free tools, consider the following tips:
Engage with the Community
Free tools often have active user communities. Participating in forums and discussion groups can provide valuable insights and help you troubleshoot issues more effectively.
Stay Updated
Regular updates are crucial for maintaining security and accessing new features. Make sure to keep your tools updated to benefit from the latest improvements.
Experiment and Customize
Don’t be afraid to explore different tools and customize them to fit your needs. Many of these tools offer a high degree of flexibility, allowing you to tailor them to your specific workflow.
Final Thoughts
Free system admin tools offer powerful features and flexibility without the cost of commercial software. So, whether you’re using Windows, Mac, or both, these tools can help you manage your systems more efficiently.
By integrating these tools into your workflow, you can improve productivity, streamline processes, and maintain a robust IT infrastructure.
If you have any favourite free tools that weren’t mentioned, feel free to share them in the comments.
Priya Mervana
Verified Web Security Experts
Priya Mervana is working at SSLInsights.com as a web security expert with over 10 years of experience writing about encryption, SSL certificates, and online privacy. She aims to make complex security topics easily understandable for everyday internet users.
