Monitor the network connectivity of IP hosts on the Internet and LAN.
VS IP Monitor is a software allows you to monitor the network connectivity of IP hosts on the Internet and LAN. The program periodically pings, checks TCP ports or HTTP on user specified IP devices (servers, routers, workstations). It is able to monitor IP devices and show notifications when the status change. You can also view and access shared folders, open web and ftp, ping, trace route and sending messages. VS IP Monitor can generate status log files.
nice visual tool that simplifies running ping cmds
BOGAITC
Pros
easy to use visual aid to keep an eye on mission critical units, as such you do not need to have multiple CMD prompt windows up - with one glance you can see instantly the status of your target.
Cons
it's a 10 day trial but to be honest I'm not sure this tool warrants more than a token payment as what it does can be done for free.
Summary
If the target machine has authorised access to you then you have a number of ways of verifying whther or not it is live. However, having a "widget" that sits neatly in the corner giving you instant visual confirmation is ultimately more useful. As such I'd be willing to pay a small fee to use it..but only a small one :)