Description: The Zabbix Agent is a software component that collects metrics from the monitored host. This agent is installed on the servers and devices that need to be monitored, and its main function is to gather data on the performance and availability of system resources such as CPU, memory, disk, and network. The Zabbix Agent can operate in different modes: it can actively send data to the Zabbix server or receive monitoring requests passively. Additionally, it is highly configurable, allowing administrators to define which metrics should be collected and how frequently. Its ability to integrate with various platforms and operating systems makes it a versatile tool in the field of infrastructure monitoring. The Zabbix Agent also supports data collection through protocols like SNMP and IPMI, which enhances its functionality and allows for more comprehensive monitoring of IT infrastructure. In an infrastructure as code environment, the Zabbix Agent can be deployed and configured automatically, facilitating the management of systems in virtualized and cloud environments. Its use is essential for ensuring the health and optimal performance of systems, enabling administrators to anticipate issues and make informed decisions about IT infrastructure.
History: Zabbix was created by Alexei Vladishev, with the first version released in 2001. Since then, it has significantly evolved, incorporating new features and improvements in its monitoring capabilities. Over the years, Zabbix has gained popularity in the open-source community and has been adopted by numerous companies for monitoring their IT infrastructure.
Uses: The Zabbix Agent is primarily used to monitor the performance and availability of servers, applications, and network devices. It allows system administrators to detect issues before they affect end users, thereby optimizing IT infrastructure management. It is also used in cloud and virtualization environments to ensure that resources are functioning correctly.
Examples: A practical example of using the Zabbix Agent is in a company managing multiple web servers. By installing the Zabbix Agent on each server, the IT team can monitor CPU and memory usage, as well as service availability. If one of the servers starts experiencing high resource usage, the Zabbix Agent can send alerts to the team to take action before a service disruption occurs.
