Btop, Glances, or Netdata? The Best Ways to Monitor Your Proxmox Server

Running a Proxmox Virtual Environment (PVE)? Then you know how important it is to keep tabs on system metrics like CPU temperature, memory usage, and disk activity. Sure, Proxmox has a built-in dashboard, but it’s pretty basic when it comes to detailed hardware monitoring.

That’s where third-party monitoring tools come in. Whether you want a lightweight terminal-based tool or a full-fledged web dashboard, there’s a solution for you. Today, we’re looking at three popular options: Btop, Glances, and Netdata. Each has its own strengths, so let’s break them down to help you pick the right one.

1. Btop: Lightweight and Powerful in the Terminal

Btop is a slick, interactive command-line system monitor that offers real-time graphs for CPU, memory, disk usage, and network activity — all in a visually appealing way.

🔹 Why You’ll Like Btop

• Low resource usage — perfect for lightweight servers.
• Easy-to-read interface with colorful visuals.
• Interactive controls — sort and kill processes easily.
• Supports GPU monitoring in newer versions.
• No web interface needed — just SSH in and run it.

🔻 Potential Downsides

• CLI-only, which might not work for GUI fans.
• No built-in alerts — no email or push notifications.

🚀 How to Install on Proxmox

apt update && apt install btop -y
btop

If you prefer a simple, fast, and interactive CLI tool, Btop is a fantastic pick.

2. Glances: Versatile and Remote-Friendly

Glances is a modular system monitor that can run in a terminal, web UI, or even expose data via an API. It’s ideal for those managing multiple Proxmox nodes.

🔹 Why You’ll Like Glances

• Works in CLI, web, and API mode — super flexible.
• Cross-platform — runs on Linux, Windows, macOS, and Raspberry Pi.
• Plugin support — extend functionality as needed.
• Remote monitoring — great for multi-node setups.
• Alerting system — set thresholds for CPU, RAM, or disk usage.

🔻 Potential Downsides

• Slightly heavier on resources than Btop.
• More setup required for the web interface.

🚀 How to Install on Proxmox

apt update && apt install glances -y
glances

To enable the web UI:

glances -w

Then access it at [http://your-proxmox-ip:61208.](http://your-proxmox-ip:61208.)

If you want a balance of simplicity, flexibility, and remote monitoring, Glances is a solid option.

3. Netdata: The Ultimate Web-Based Dashboard

If you love detailed, real-time monitoring in a rich web UI, Netdata is a game-changer. It provides deep insights into CPU temp, disk usage, network traffic, and more — all in an intuitive dashboard.

🔹 Why You’ll Like Netdata

• Beautiful, feature-rich web UI for easy monitoring.
• Covers everything — CPU, RAM, disk, network, sensors, containers, and more.
• Auto-detects system components — minimal setup needed.
• Low resource footprint despite being web-based.
• Built-in alerts — get notified via email or push.

🔻 Potential Downsides

• Installation is a bit more involved compared to Btop and Glances.
• Cloud integration might not be for everyone.

🚀 How to Install on Proxmox

bash <(curl -Ss https://my-netdata.io/kickstart.sh)

Then open http://your-proxmox-ip:19999 in a browser.

If you want a full-fledged, real-time monitoring solution, Netdata is the way to go.

Which One is Right for You?

• Go with Btop if you want a simple, lightweight CLI tool with a great UI.
• Pick Glances if you need both CLI and web UI plus remote monitoring.
• Choose Netdata for a detailed, web-based dashboard with tons of data.

Keeping tabs on your Proxmox system stats is crucial for performance and avoiding overheating issues.

• If you’re a command-line power user, Btop is a fantastic choice.
• If you want alerts and remote monitoring, Glances has you covered.
• If you love real-time data in a slick UI, Netdata is the best bet.

No matter which one you choose, you’ll have better control over your Proxmox server’s health — and that’s always a win! 🚀