How To Install Ntopng on AlmaLinux 10

Network monitoring has become essential for maintaining optimal system performance and security in modern IT environments. Ntopng stands out as one of the most powerful and versatile network traffic analysis tools available today, offering comprehensive monitoring capabilities that help administrators track, analyze, and optimize network performance in real-time.

AlmaLinux 10 provides an excellent foundation for hosting ntopng, combining enterprise-grade stability with cost-effective deployment. This comprehensive guide walks through every step of installing and configuring ntopng on AlmaLinux 10, ensuring optimal performance and security for your network monitoring infrastructure.

The installation process involves several critical steps, from system preparation to advanced configuration options. By following this detailed tutorial, network administrators will gain complete control over their traffic monitoring setup while implementing industry best practices for production deployments.

Understanding Ntopng

What is Ntopng?

Ntopng represents the evolution of the classic ntop network monitoring tool, redesigned from the ground up to meet modern networking demands. This next-generation application provides sophisticated web-based traffic monitoring capabilities while maintaining the lightweight footprint that made its predecessor popular among system administrators worldwide.

The tool excels at passive network monitoring, capturing and analyzing traffic patterns without impacting network performance. Unlike traditional monitoring solutions that require extensive agent deployment, ntopng operates efficiently from a single installation point while providing comprehensive visibility across entire network infrastructures.

Its modular architecture supports various deployment scenarios, from small office networks to enterprise-scale implementations. The web-based interface eliminates the need for specialized client software, making it accessible from any modern browser while maintaining professional-grade functionality.

Key Features and Benefits

Ntopng delivers an impressive array of monitoring capabilities that distinguish it from conventional network analysis tools. Real-time traffic monitoring provides instant visibility into network utilization patterns, enabling proactive identification of performance bottlenecks and security threats.

The application’s protocol analysis engine supports comprehensive detection and categorization of network protocols including TCP, UDP, HTTP, SMTP, and numerous application-specific protocols. This deep packet inspection capability allows administrators to understand exactly how network resources are being utilized across different services and applications.

Flow-based analysis represents another significant advantage, with native support for NetFlow, sFlow, and IPFIX protocols. This functionality enables integration with existing network infrastructure while providing standardized data collection mechanisms that scale effectively across large deployments.

Built-in anomaly detection algorithms continuously monitor network patterns, automatically identifying unusual traffic behaviors that might indicate security incidents or performance issues. The alerting system provides customizable notification mechanisms, ensuring critical events receive immediate attention.

Prerequisites and System Requirements

System Requirements

AlmaLinux 10 server deployment requires careful consideration of hardware specifications to ensure optimal ntopng performance. A fresh installation provides the cleanest foundation, minimizing potential conflicts with existing software packages or configuration settings.

Memory requirements vary significantly based on network size and traffic volume. Environments monitoring fewer than 1,000 hosts typically operate effectively with 4GB RAM, while larger deployments may require 8GB or more. CPU requirements remain modest for most installations, with dual-core processors handling typical small-to-medium business networks effectively.

Storage considerations extend beyond initial installation requirements. Ntopng generates substantial amounts of historical data, particularly when configured for detailed flow analysis and long-term trend reporting. Plan for minimum 50GB available disk space for basic installations, with enterprise deployments often requiring several hundred gigabytes for comprehensive data retention.

Network interface capabilities directly impact monitoring effectiveness. Gigabit Ethernet interfaces handle most deployment scenarios, though high-traffic environments may benefit from 10GbE connectivity to prevent packet loss during peak utilization periods.

User Permissions and Access

Proper user account configuration ensures secure installation while maintaining necessary system access for ongoing maintenance activities. Root user access or comprehensive sudo privileges are required throughout the installation process.

SSH access provides the most efficient installation method for remote servers, enabling secure command-line management without physical console access. Configure SSH key authentication rather than password-based access for enhanced security, particularly in production environments.

Creating dedicated non-root user accounts for routine ntopng management activities follows security best practices. This approach minimizes potential security exposure while maintaining necessary administrative capabilities for configuration updates and system maintenance.

Basic Linux command-line familiarity is assumed throughout this guide. Administrators should understand fundamental concepts including file system navigation, text editing, and package management before beginning the installation process.

Network and Firewall Considerations

Default ntopng configuration utilizes TCP port 3000 for web interface access, requiring firewall modifications to enable remote connectivity. Plan network access patterns carefully, considering which systems require direct web interface access versus those that might use alternative monitoring approaches.

Network interface monitoring capabilities depend on proper permissions and system configuration. Interfaces operating in promiscuous mode capture all network traffic, providing comprehensive visibility but requiring elevated privileges and careful security consideration.

Production deployments should implement network segmentation strategies, isolating monitoring infrastructure from general user networks. This approach enhances security while preventing monitoring activities from impacting critical business applications.

Security considerations extend beyond basic firewall configuration. Evaluate SSL/TLS implementation requirements, authentication mechanisms, and access control policies before completing the installation process.

Pre-Installation Setup

System Updates and Package Management

Beginning with comprehensive system updates ensures optimal compatibility and security. AlmaLinux 10 utilizes the DNF package manager for efficient package handling, providing improved dependency resolution compared to legacy YUM implementations.

Execute system updates using the following commands:

sudo dnf update -y
sudo dnf install epel-release -y

The Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux (EPEL) repository provides additional software packages not included in standard AlmaLinux distributions. Ntopng installation depends on several EPEL packages, making this repository essential for successful deployment.

Development tools installation supports compilation requirements for certain ntopng components:

sudo dnf groupinstall "Development Tools" -y

PowerTools repository activation provides access to additional development libraries and tools required by advanced ntopng features:

sudo dnf config-manager --enable powertools

Installing Required Dependencies

Essential utilities support various aspects of the installation process, from repository management to package verification. Install core dependencies using the following command sequence:

sudo dnf install wget curl gnupg2 -y

Redis database installation provides backend storage for ntopng’s operational data. While not strictly required for basic functionality, Redis significantly improves performance and enables advanced features:

sudo dnf install redis -y
sudo systemctl enable redis
sudo systemctl start redis

Additional development libraries support ntopng’s packet capture and analysis capabilities:

sudo dnf install libpcap-devel json-c-devel libxml2-devel -y

Adding Remi Repository

Remi repository provides updated PHP packages and additional software components that enhance ntopng functionality. Install and configure Remi repository using these commands:

sudo dnf install https://rpms.remirepo.net/enterprise/remi-release-9.rpm -y

Repository priority configuration ensures proper package selection during installation and updates:

sudo dnf config-manager --set-enabled remi

Update package cache to include newly added repositories:

sudo dnf makecache

Adding Ntopng Repository

Downloading Official Ntop Repository

Official ntop repository provides the most reliable source for ntopng packages, ensuring compatibility and access to latest updates. Download the repository configuration file directly from ntop’s official servers:

sudo wget http://packages.ntop.org/centos-stable/ntop.repo -O /etc/yum.repos.d/ntop.repo

Alternative installation using curl command provides similar functionality:

sudo curl -o /etc/yum.repos.d/ntop.repo http://packages.ntop.org/centos-stable/ntop.repo

Verify repository file contents to ensure proper configuration:

cat /etc/yum.repos.d/ntop.repo

The repository file should contain configuration sections for both stable and development package streams, allowing selection based on deployment requirements.

Repository Configuration and Verification

GPG key import ensures package authenticity and prevents installation of potentially compromised software:

sudo rpm --import http://packages.ntop.org/rpm-public-key.txt

Repository selection depends on deployment requirements. Stable repositories provide thoroughly tested packages suitable for production environments, while development repositories offer access to latest features and improvements.

Update DNF package cache to include ntop repository packages:

sudo dnf makecache

Verify repository availability and package listings:

sudo dnf repository-packages ntop list

This command displays all available packages from the ntop repository, confirming proper repository configuration and network connectivity.

Installing Ntopng and Components

Installing Core Ntopng Packages

Package installation requires careful attention to dependency management and potential conflicts. Remove conflicting zeromq3 packages before beginning ntopng installation:

sudo dnf remove zeromq3 -y

Install PF_RING framework components for high-performance packet capture capabilities:

sudo dnf install pfring-dkms -y

N2disk installation enables packet-to-disk recording functionality for detailed traffic analysis and forensic investigation:

sudo dnf install n2disk -y

NProbe provides NetFlow and IPFIX probe capabilities, supporting integration with existing network monitoring infrastructure:

sudo dnf install nprobe -y

Core ntopng package installation includes the main application and essential dependencies:

sudo dnf install ntopng -y

Cento package provides additional enterprise-focused features and integrations:

sudo dnf install cento -y

Installing Optional Components

Advanced deployments may benefit from additional components that extend ntopng’s capabilities beyond basic traffic monitoring. Zero Copy drivers provide enhanced performance for high-throughput environments:

sudo dnf install pfring-drivers-zc-dkms -y

License requirements apply to certain advanced features and components. Review ntop’s licensing documentation to understand which features require commercial licenses versus those available under open-source terms.

NProbes package provides enhanced probe functionality for distributed monitoring deployments. Evaluate whether basic nProbe capabilities meet requirements before installing additional components.

Post-Installation Package Verification

Verify successful installation by checking installed package versions and dependencies:

rpm -qa | grep ntop

Review package information to confirm proper installation:

rpm -qi ntopng

Check for any missing dependencies or configuration issues:

sudo dnf check

Understanding package relationships helps troubleshoot potential issues and plan future updates. Use DNF’s dependency resolution capabilities to identify component interactions.

Configuration Setup

Basic Configuration File Setup

Ntopng configuration centers around the main configuration file located at /etc/ntopng/ntopng.conf. This file controls all aspects of ntopng operation, from network interface selection to advanced monitoring parameters.

Create initial configuration file if it doesn’t exist:

sudo touch /etc/ntopng/ntopng.conf
sudo chmod 644 /etc/ntopng/ntopng.conf

Basic configuration template includes essential parameters for community version operation:

sudo tee /etc/ntopng/ntopng.conf > /dev/null <<EOF
-P=/var/lib/ntopng/ntopng.pid
-d=/var/lib/ntopng
-w=3000
-i=eth0
-P=/var/log/ntopng/ntopng.log
--community
EOF

Configuration file structure uses command-line parameter format, with each line representing a specific ntopng option. Comments begin with hash symbols and provide documentation for complex parameters.

PID file configuration ensures proper daemon management and prevents multiple ntopng instances from conflicting. Specify writable directory location with appropriate permissions for ntopng user account.

Network Interface Configuration

Interface selection directly impacts monitoring scope and effectiveness. Identify available network interfaces using standard Linux networking commands:

ip link show

Configure primary monitoring interface in ntopng configuration file. Replace eth0 with actual interface name based on system configuration:

-i=eth0

Multiple interface monitoring requires separate configuration entries:

-i=eth0,eth1,eth2

Promiscuous mode activation enables comprehensive traffic capture but requires elevated privileges and careful security consideration. Configure interface promiscuous mode through ntopng rather than system-level commands for better integration.

Advanced Configuration Options

Flow and host limits prevent resource exhaustion during high-traffic periods. Configure appropriate limits based on available system resources:

--max-num-flows=131072
--max-num-hosts=8192

HTTP port configuration enables custom web interface access ports. Change default port 3000 if conflicts exist with other services:

-w=8080

Authentication configuration enhances security by requiring user credentials for web interface access:

--http-auth-type=ldap
--ldap-server=ldap://your-ldap-server

Data retention policies control storage utilization and historical data availability:

--dump-flows=1
--dump-hosts=1
--sticky-hosts=1

Logging configuration provides diagnostic information for troubleshooting and performance monitoring:

-v=2
--log-level=info

Starting and Enabling Ntopng Service

Service Management

SystemD service management provides standardized control over ntopng daemon operation. Start ntopng service using systemctl commands:

sudo systemctl start ntopng

Enable automatic startup to ensure ntopng restarts after system reboots:

sudo systemctl enable ntopng

Check service status to verify proper operation:

sudo systemctl status ntopng

Service status output includes operational state, process ID, and recent log entries. Active status indicates successful startup, while failed status requires troubleshooting investigation.

Service Verification and Monitoring

Service logs provide detailed information about ntopng operation and potential issues. View recent log entries using journalctl:

sudo journalctl -u ntopng -f

Monitor resource utilization to ensure adequate system capacity:

top -p $(pgrep ntopng)

Service restart procedures handle configuration changes and troubleshooting scenarios:

sudo systemctl restart ntopng

Configuration reload capability enables certain parameter changes without full service restart:

sudo systemctl reload ntopng

Firewall Configuration

Configuring AlmaLinux Firewall

AlmaLinux firewall configuration requires opening TCP port 3000 for web interface access. Add permanent firewall rule using firewall-cmd:

sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-port=3000/tcp

Reload firewall configuration to activate new rules:

sudo firewall-cmd --reload

Verify rule implementation:

sudo firewall-cmd --list-ports

Service-based firewall configuration provides alternative approach for standard service ports:

sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-service=http

Security Considerations

Production deployments require enhanced security measures beyond basic port opening. Restrict access to specific IP address ranges using rich firewall rules:

sudo firewall-cmd --permanent --add-rich-rule='rule family="ipv4" source address="192.168.1.0/24" port port="3000" protocol="tcp" accept'

SSL/TLS implementation protects web interface communications from interception and manipulation. Configure SSL certificates through ntopng configuration file:

--ssl-cert=/path/to/certificate.pem
--ssl-key=/path/to/private-key.pem

Authentication mechanisms prevent unauthorized access to monitoring data and configuration settings. Implement strong password policies and consider multi-factor authentication for sensitive environments.

Network segmentation isolates monitoring infrastructure from general user networks, reducing security exposure while maintaining monitoring effectiveness.

Accessing Ntopng Web Interface

Initial Web Access

Web browser access provides the primary interface for ntopng configuration and monitoring activities. Navigate to ntopng web interface using server IP address and configured port:

http://server-ip-address:3000

Default login credentials use admin for both username and password. Change these credentials immediately after initial login to prevent unauthorized access.

First-time setup wizard guides initial configuration process, including interface selection, monitoring preferences, and basic security settings. Complete wizard steps carefully to ensure optimal monitoring configuration.

Main dashboard provides comprehensive overview of network activity, including traffic statistics, protocol distribution, and active host information. Familiarize yourself with dashboard layout and navigation options for efficient ongoing management.

Web Interface Overview

Dashboard components display real-time network metrics through interactive graphs and statistical summaries. Traffic analysis features enable detailed examination of network utilization patterns across different time periods and protocol categories.

Host analysis capabilities provide detailed information about individual network devices, including traffic patterns, protocol usage, and communication relationships. This information supports network optimization and security investigation activities.

Flow analysis features enable examination of network connections and data transfers between specific hosts and services. Use flow analysis for capacity planning, performance troubleshooting, and security incident investigation.

Alert configuration through web interface enables proactive monitoring of network conditions and anomalous activities. Configure appropriate thresholds and notification mechanisms based on operational requirements.

Testing and Verification

Functionality Testing

Comprehensive testing verifies ntopng installation success and proper operation across all configured features. Network traffic monitoring validation confirms real-time data collection and display functionality.

Protocol detection testing involves generating various network traffic types and verifying proper classification and analysis. Test common protocols including HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, and SMTP to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Flow-based monitoring verification requires NetFlow or sFlow capable network devices for complete testing. Configure test devices to send flow data to ntopng server and verify proper reception and processing.

Anomaly detection testing involves creating unusual traffic patterns and confirming appropriate alert generation. This testing validates monitoring effectiveness and alert system functionality.

Performance Verification

System resource monitoring during testing identifies potential performance bottlenecks and capacity constraints. Monitor CPU utilization, memory consumption, and disk I/O during various traffic scenarios.

Packet capture performance testing determines maximum sustainable traffic rates without packet loss. Use traffic generation tools to create controlled load scenarios and measure ntopng handling capabilities.

Web interface responsiveness testing under load ensures usability during high-traffic periods. Navigate through various interface sections while monitoring high traffic volumes to identify performance impacts.

Data accuracy validation compares ntopng measurements against known traffic characteristics and other monitoring tools. This verification ensures reliable data for network optimization and troubleshooting decisions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Installation Problems

Repository access issues often stem from network connectivity problems or firewall restrictions. Verify internet connectivity and DNS resolution for package download servers. Check firewall rules that might block HTTPS connections to package repositories.

Package dependency conflicts require careful resolution to avoid system instability. Use DNF’s dependency resolution capabilities to identify conflicting packages and appropriate resolution strategies.

Permission and access problems frequently occur during installation when insufficient privileges prevent file creation or modification. Verify user account has appropriate sudo access for all installation commands.

Firewall and network connectivity issues prevent proper operation even after successful installation. Review firewall configuration, network interface settings, and routing tables to identify connectivity problems.

Runtime Issues

Service startup problems often indicate configuration errors or missing dependencies. Review service logs using journalctl to identify specific error messages and resolution approaches.

Web interface access issues may result from firewall configuration, network connectivity, or service binding problems. Verify service is listening on expected port using netstat or ss commands.

Network interface monitoring problems require verification of interface configuration, permissions, and physical connectivity. Ensure specified interfaces exist and are properly configured for monitoring activities.

Performance and resource issues develop over time as traffic patterns change or data accumulates. Monitor system resources regularly and adjust configuration parameters to maintain optimal performance.

Best Practices and Optimization

Performance Optimization

Configuration optimization based on network size and traffic volume ensures efficient resource utilization. Adjust flow and host limits based on observed network characteristics rather than default values.

Retention policy configuration balances historical data availability against storage resource consumption. Implement appropriate data lifecycle policies based on compliance requirements and analytical needs.

Database optimization improves query performance and reduces storage requirements. Configure appropriate indexing strategies and data compression options for optimal balance between performance and capacity.

System resource tuning includes memory allocation, CPU affinity, and disk I/O optimization. Monitor resource utilization patterns and adjust system configuration for optimal ntopng performance.

Security Best Practices

Strong authentication implementation prevents unauthorized access to network monitoring data and configuration settings. Use complex passwords, implement account lockout policies, and consider multi-factor authentication for sensitive deployments.

Regular security updates maintain protection against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Establish update procedures that balance security requirements against operational stability needs.

Access control policies limit user capabilities based on job requirements and security principles. Implement role-based access control and principle of least privilege for all user accounts.

Monitoring and auditing access activities provides visibility into system usage and potential security incidents. Configure appropriate logging and review procedures for ongoing security assessment.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Ntopng. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the Ntopng web-based traffic monitoring application on your AlmaLinux OS 10 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official Ntopng website.