Many Windows administrators are evaluating syslog server alternatives for their network logging needs. This FAQ helps you compare Kiwi Syslog Server with WinSyslog based on verified information from official documentation.
What Administrators Are Looking For
Organizations typically seek syslog solutions that provide:
- Reliable message parsing and processing
- Straightforward configuration management
- Responsive technical support
- Competitive licensing options
- Proven track record and ongoing development
Historical Context
WinSyslog was the first syslog server for Windows, originally developed in 1996. It has been actively maintained by the same engineering team for over 25 years. WinSyslog is developed by Adiscon, the same company behind rsyslog, ensuring deep protocol understanding and consistent implementation across platforms.
Kiwi Syslog Server has been available since the early 2000s, offering a GUI-based approach to syslog management.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Kiwi Syslog Server | WinSyslog |
|---|---|---|
| Windows Syslog History | Available since ~2000s | First syslog server for Windows (1996) |
| Multiple Instances | Not supported | Full support for multiple independent servers |
| Message Parsing | RFC 3164 compliant | RFC 3164 and RFC 5424 compliant |
| Configuration | Filter-based | Rule-based processing |
| Rule Processing | Filters + actions | Flexible rules + actions architecture |
| Database Support | ODBC databases (example SQL Server) | Any ODBC-compliant database |
| RFC 3164 Support | Yes | Yes |
| RFC 5424 Support | Not supported | Full compliance |
| RELP Support | Not supported | Yes – Reliable Event Logging Protocol |
| TLS Support | Yes (for secure TCP) | Yes – Built-in secure transport |
| Rsyslog Integration | Basic forwarding | Seamless integration |
| Windows Event Log | Built-in action | Advanced built-in integration |
| Design Focus | GUI-based management | Reliability and automation |
Protocol Support Comparison
| Protocol | Kiwi Syslog Server | WinSyslog |
|---|---|---|
| UDP | Yes | Yes |
| TCP | Yes | Yes |
| TLS | Yes (for secure TCP) | Yes – Built-in |
| RELP | Not supported | Yes |
| Message Parsing | RFC 3164 | RFC 3164, RFC 5424 |
| Rsyslog Integration | Basic forwarding | Seamless integration |
Licensing Comparison
| Aspect | Kiwi Syslog Server | WinSyslog |
|---|---|---|
| Free Version | Freeware available | Trial version available |
| Licensed Version | Subscription-based | One-time or competitive licensing |
| Upgrade Insurance | Not applicable | Available option |
| Trial | Limited functionality | Fully functional |
| Support | Various options | Support Portal (ticket.adiscon.com) |
Support & Development
| Aspect | Kiwi Syslog Server | WinSyslog |
|---|---|---|
| Support Channel | Various | Support Portal (ticket.adiscon.com) |
| Response Time | Varies | 1-2 business days, often same day |
| Development Model | Vendor-driven | User-driven (quarterly feature implementation) |
| Product Updates | Regular releases | Regular releases with upgrade insurance option |
Why Choose WinSyslog?
WinSyslog offers several key advantages:
- Built by the original team behind rsyslog – Provides deep syslog protocol expertise
- Designed for professionals who care about results – Focus on reliability over flashy interfaces
- 25+ years of proven stability – Established track record in enterprise environments
- Multiple syslog server instances – Unique capability to run multiple independent servers on one machine
- Standards-compliant parsing – Full RFC 3164 and RFC 5424 support
- Rule-based configuration – More flexible than filter-based approaches
- Comprehensive database integration – Support for any ODBC-compliant database
- RELP and TLS support – Secure transport options built-in
- Seamless rsyslog integration – Works seamlessly with rsyslog backends
Migration Benefits
Organizations migrating to WinSyslog benefit from:
- Rule-based configuration approach
- Standards-compliant message parsing
- Proven performance track record
- Flexible automation capabilities
Trial & Evaluation
WinSyslog offers a fully functional trial version with no obligation. You can:
- Download and test in your environment
- Evaluate against your current pain points
- Contact support via the Support Portal
- Get responses within 1-2 business days (often same day during German office hours)
Reliability & Track Record
WinSyslog has been:
- The first syslog server for Windows (since 1996)
- Maintained by the same engineering team throughout its history
- Used by enterprises worldwide
- Proven at customer sites for decades
Decision Checklist
Consider WinSyslog if you need:
- Reliable message parsing?
- Straightforward configuration?
- Responsive technical support?
- Cost-effective solution?
- Predictable, reliable syslog server?
- Professional-grade automation capabilities?
Next Steps
Ready to evaluate WinSyslog?
- Download trial version
- Contact us via the Support Portal
- Test in your environment
- Evaluate against your current requirements
Related Articles:
- How do I migrate my Kiwi Syslog Server configuration to WinSyslog?
- WinSyslog Manual
- How to Configure a Syslog Server
- FAQ Archive