Alloy Discovery vs runZero

Alloy Discovery is an on-premises network discovery and inventory tool for identifying and tracking computers, servers, and other equipment. Its Windows, Linux, and Mac Inventory Analyzer versions collect hardware, operating system, installed-software, and network details in audit snapshots. Direct Network Scan can examine Windows, Linux, and macOS computers on a local network without installing standalone agents on each remote machine. For offsite or disconnected computers, standalone agents support remote, network-folder, and portable audits. Scanning can run on demand or on a schedule across network segments, while SNMP collection covers printers, scanners, hubs, routers, and other network devices. Chromebook audits can run on demand or on a schedule through Google Directory Audit. Software discovery draws on operating-system-specific data, though detailed file recognition is limited to Windows. The standalone edition monitors licenses in its desktop app; Alloy Navigator integration is for Enterprise and uses Navigator consoles for license management. The product supports network maps and switch-port views. Its free trial is fully functional and includes technical support and licensing for participating staff.

runZero is an attack surface and exposure management platform for inventorying IT, OT, IoT, cloud, mobile, and remote assets. It combines active scanning, passive traffic sampling, and API integrations to keep the inventory updated. Tracked information can include assets, services, screenshots, software, vulnerabilities, certificates, wireless devices, users, and groups. Reports include layer-2 topology maps and asset risk; alerts can appear in-product or arrive by email or webhook, including Slack. The service can run as hosted SaaS or on-premise using Consoles, distributed Explorers, and a command-line tool. runZero says it operates without agents, authentication, or appliances. Prebuilt integrations span cloud providers, EDRs, MDMs, vulnerability scanners, ITSM systems, and detection platforms, with an API and scripts for custom integrations. Community Edition is free for up to 100 assets, one organization, 10 recurring tasks, and 30 days of data retention. The Platform costs what you agree with the maker. Self-hosting the console requires a Platform license with runZero Care explicitly enabled.