Monitoring MySQL
with PRTG

MySQL is an open source database management system based on structured query language (SQL). Along with being available for free, MySQL has the advantage that is runs on almost all platforms. MySQL is one of the most widely used database systems in the world, and many dynamic websites are built around it. Along with the open source variety, there is also a commercial version of the database system. To use MySQL for a commercial product, you will need to purchase a license.

If your database runs at a snail’s pace, returns errors for certain queries, or is not available at all, then the performance and quality of all applications dependent on that database will also suffer. To ensure your applications are always available and can be accessed as quickly as possible , you will need to monitor your MySQL databases. By doing so, you will create, by way of your database, the basis for the availability and performance of all your services in the tiers.

All it takes are a few short steps to get started with PRTG MySQL Monitor. PRTG comes with a pre-defined sensor for MySQL monitoring. In general, you can start using the sensor immediately to monitor some basic information regarding your database, such as availability and execution time.

For a more detailed look, add your own SQL queries by way of a separate file.

Configuring the MySQL sensor is quick and easy:

1. Create an SQL query

Use self-defined SQL queries to monitor a variety of KPIs, such as:

• The number of website visitors
• Sales figures from the online store
• Open tickets for customer support

The possibilities are virtually endless. The only requirement: You must define an appropriate SQL statement.

Here is an example of what this might look like:

SELECT count(idorder), sum(value), avg(value), GROUP_CONCAT(customer SEPARATOR ', ') from test.order

2. Save the script

Save your entire SQL statement in a separate query file on your hard drive in the PRTG program folder. Be sure to use the .sql file extension for the file and select the following path:

C:\Program Files (x86)\PRTG Network Monitor\Custom Sensors\sql\mysql

3. Create the sensor in PRTG

Before adding the sensor to PRTG, check to make sure your environment meets the requirements (for more information, see our manual). Be especially careful to enter the correct access data in the device’s settings, as the device will represent your database in PRTG.

Click on “Add sensor”, on the device which is to receive the sensor, search for MySQL and choose the MySQL-v2-Sensor. In the dialog box that follows, enter the sensor name and the name of the database that is to be monitored.

Then choose the SQL file which contains your SQL statement (from step 2) and configure the sensor however you please. Decide, for example, if you simply wish to monitor the query execution time or if you would also like to analyze and process data table values. If you choose the latter, then specify which values should be read from the table.

The PRTG sensor is added once you close the dialog box. The sensor will look something like this:

Made in Germany: The PRTG Network Monitoring Tool is the fruit of an engaged team. The company was founded by Dirk Paessler. The PAESSLER AG headquarters are located in the city of Nuremberg, in the heart of Germany. We combine typical German virtues such as high quality standards, industriousness, and commitment with international, cosmopolitan flair. Read more about our firm here. By the way: We are regularly looking for new recruits.

Case Studies: Airports, utility companies, banks, colleges, hospitals: PRTG is present in every industry. For each of our customers, business and organizational processes depend on the proper functioning of the network infrastructure. The PRTG customer satisfaction is close to 100%. Read in our case studies how our customers use PRTG.

Product tests: It goes without saying that we are convinced by the quality of PRTG. But what about the others? PRTG has always performed extremely well in tests. PRTG user “LanLine” sums it up best: “PRTG was already good several years ago, and has gotten better from version to version ever since.” Such has been our steadfast and sincere goal. Read more about monitoring software product tests and comparisons here.

Support: Our support team works hard every day to help customers solve their monitoring problems. Our goal is to resolve all inquiries within 24 hours (on business days). We've drafted a comprehensive manual and built up an extensive knowledge base featuring videos, webinars, and FAQs. All support, of course, is also included!

Getting started is easy: The trial version is free, which means you can try our monitoring tool risk-free. To switch to another version of PRTG, simply search for an appropriate license. You can upgrade any time you like.