Simulated or “synthetic” transactions are usually the best way to monitor response time and availability of critical business services. By using them, service levels can be achieved and controlled comprehensively, easily, and efficiently. Synthetic transactions are also valuable for security vulnerability testing, KPI retrieval, and alignment between the IT department and corporate goals.

This white paper describes why synthetic transactions are popular, the desired characteristics of a good synthetic transaction engine and the Tango/04 extensions around this technology designed to increase the value of your monitoring projects.