System monitoring applications are software tools designed to track and analyze the performance of computer systems and networks. They provide real-time data on various metrics, such as CPU usage, memory consumption, and network traffic, helping users identify potential issues before they escalate. These applications are essential for maintaining system health and ensuring optimal performance. Many system monitoring applications offer features like alerts and reporting, allowing administrators to respond quickly to problems. They can be used in various environments, from individual computers to large-scale data centers. Popular examples include Nagios, Zabbix, and Prometheus, each catering to different monitoring needs.