The Best Network Diagram, Mapping and Topology Tools

Over the past decade or so, network mapping and diagram tools have become an essential part of modern administrative toolkits. As companies begin to maintain more complex IT infrastructure, the ability to map these complex landscapes becomes even more important. After all, if you don’t have a clear understanding of your network topology, you don’t have complete network transparency. Network mapping is a key element in network monitoring tools. Getting a visible representation of each of your network devices and their relationships gives you a context for all of your equipment monitoring tasks.

Here is our list of the best network diagram, mapping and topology tools:

1. ManageEngine OpManager EDITOR’S CHOICE A network performance monitor that includes a great autodiscovery and network mapping feature that automatically updates to reflect device inventory changes. Start a 30-day free trial.
2. Paessler PRTG Network Mapping Tools (FREE TRIAL) A mapping function that is part of a wider network and infrastructure monitoring system. Runs on Windows Server. Start a 30-day free trial.
3. Auvik This SaaS package is delivered from the cloud and scans a network through a data collector installed on one of the network’s servers. This data enables the automatic generation of a network map.
4. ConceptDraw Pro A graph and chart designer that includes network device icon libraries.
5. Lucidchart A graphical design package that includes templates for network topology maps.
6. Intermapper This system scans the network for devices and then creates an automatic map of all connections.
7. CADE (Free) A basic, free chart editor with an IT icon library.
8. Network Topology Mapper A premium automated topology mapper that also includes formats for wireless systems. Installs on Windows Server.
9. Dia (Free) An entry-level, free graphics editor with an IT icon library.
10. eDraw An attractive diagram creator with templates for network maps.
11. LanFlow A network diagram creator that includes a drag-and-drop interface and an IT icon library.
12. NetProbe A network map designer that will go on to monitor your network once you have defined it in a diagram.
13. Network Notepad (Free) A free graphic design editor specifically aimed at the creation of network maps.
14. Microsoft Visio Top of the line chart and graph creating studio that includes templates and icons for network map creation.

A tool that produces a diagram of your network and maps its connectivity from head to toe can tell you a lot about your technical infrastructure. This not only increases your efficiency but also enhances your ability to troubleshoot problems. You simply cannot respond to performance concerns intelligently unless you have a thorough understanding of your network’s geography.

By understanding where your hardware sits in your network infrastructure, you’re better able to address problems promptly when they occur. You will also be able to maintain a targeted approach to cybersecurity ensuring that you systematically protect every system available on your network. In most cases this will be achieved by identifying faulty hardware or optimizing your network.

What is a Network Map?

As the name suggests, a network map is a visual diagram of your network that displays each device within your local IT environment. A network map details the location of components like routers, VLANs, access points, firewalls, switches, hosts, laptops, and computers. This map acts as a schematic guide to your network.

While a network map can be drawn by hand, doing so is very complex and inefficient. Today most enterprises choose to employ a network diagram and topology tool to automate the process of drawing up their network. This ensures they can can produce a diagram promptly and scale it to the needs of their enterprise in the future. Network monitoring tools usually include a network mapping module.

Why Do I Need a Network Diagram and Mapping Tool?

The main reason administrators use network diagram tools is to save time. Creating a network map from scratch without the help of a dedicated program is very complex and time consuming. In addition, once you’ve taken the time to draw up your map, its most likely going to be out of date by the time it is finished.

The IT infrastructure of most large organizations is constantly evolving. A network diagram tool has the potential to keep up with these changes and ensure that you always have an accurate depiction of your network on hand for reference. Drawing up network diagrams manually simply takes too long to keep up with the changes occurring on most networks (particularly enterprise grade networks!).

One of the most well-known network mapping tools is SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper. Tools like Network Topology Mapper are great because they offer an auto-discovery feature that automatically identifies devices on a network and charts them on a map. This map can then be used as a network guide for administrators or used for PCI and FIPS-142 compliance. By using tools like Network Topology Mapper, you end up with a clear overview of your equipment.

Utilizing a network diagram and mapping tool is the only way to design a network diagram promptly in way that keeps pace with the evolving infrastructure of a modern IT environment. Having an up-to-date map is fundamental to troubleshooting your network and optimizing services.

In other words, topology plays an integral part in how your network performs. For example, the longer a data packet travels on your network, the longer your communication time. It thus makes sense to design a network path that is as efficient as possible. Below we’ve produced a short list of essential features of network diagram mapping tools:

• Autodiscovery – Top of the range network mapping tools can discover devices automatically, and run port scans to see which services are up and running.
• Troubleshooting – Part of effectively troubleshooting a network is having a top-down view of what’s happening on each individual host or device.
• Live Monitoring – You can see what’s happening on your network live and receive alerts when changes occur in your infrastructure.
• Intelligent Scalability – You can use a network mapper to run reports on your network and identify which components need to be upgraded.

Mapping tools for network analysis

The network map assists you with analysis tasks as well as day-to-day monitoring. If the network suddenly slows, it is important to isolate whether the problem is truly system-wide or really the fault of one piece of equipment. Live network maps that graphically represent the statuses of all of your network’s elements instantly highlight the location of a problem.

Getting a map is often the starting point of any project to expand a network in order to serve more users or include new software services. Capacity planning needs to be performed on two levels — for the network as a whole and also on a per-device basis. Impact studies of changes in the network can only be performed when you understand which neighboring devices attach to any network segment that is the subject of change.

Network topology tools recommendations

1. ManageEngine OpManager (FREE TRIAL)

ManageEngine OpManager monitors the network through the use of the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). One of the great features of SNMP is that it provides a very quick way for a network management system to quickly discover all devices on the network. When OpManager sends out its first status request as a broadcast, all device agents respond with a full list of all of their settings and identifiers.

Key Features:

• SNMP monitoring
• Automatic network topology maps
• Quick device discovery
• Redraws maps on access

Why do we recommend it?

ManageEngine OpManager is recommended for its efficient SNMP monitoring and automatic network topology mapping, making network management straightforward and effective.

OpManager compiles an equipment inventory from that initial response and a feature in its code automatically generates a network topology map from that list of devices. OpManager makes several network map layouts available and they are all redrawn on access by the user. If any device gets added to the network, removed, or moved, OpManager will spot that change within minutes because it checks the device inventory and updates it where necessary whenever it gets responses back to its periodic status request broadcasts.

The network discovery and topology map drawing utilities of OpManager are shipped with every purchase of the system. There are no partial packages, so every customer gets this tool. The network monitoring system is suitable for businesses of all sizes.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is well-suited for businesses of all sizes needing a comprehensive network monitoring solution with efficient device discovery and mapping capabilities.

ManageEngine OpManager is a complete network monitoring solution and it installs on Windows Server and Linux.  In short, it’s a network monitoring system that starts service with an autodiscovery phase. Installs on Windows Server and Linux. Network managers can assess the system on a 30-day free trial.

2. Paessler PRTG Network Mapping Tools (FREE TRIAL)

The Paessler PRTG infrastructure monitoring suite features network mapping tools that offer you a range of formats. The most eye-catching map that PRTG produces is its sunburst view. This shows circles of applications together with the services and hardware that supports each. The sunburst view can be applied to a range of map data.

Key Features:

• Variety of map formats
• Customizable icons
• Color-coded statuses
• Flexible focus adjustments

Why do we recommend it?

Paessler PRTG is recommended for its diverse range of network mapping formats and the ability to customize and adjust focus for detailed network analysis.

Other mapping options include a straightforward plot of all of the devices in the network with connections depicted as straight lines. The standard map shows icons for the nodes. Each icon takes the form of the device type. You can customize the icons if you like. Color-coded statuses are shown for each device. The links between devices are also color-coded with healthy link shown in green and problem links colored red. This is a very easy-to-read map and it gives you statuses at a glance as well as the relationships and dependencies between devices.

Other map options give you templates that you can adapt and personalize. A building plan will show the location of each device on your premises and even integrate photos of your offices. Another option, which is great for WANs, plots your network on a real, zoomable map of the world.

The focus of each map can be altered on command to show only Layer 2 or Layer 3 devices. You can feature applications, protocols, and throughput. You can also create your own custom maps using a mapping module that links through to the underlying data of the device inventory.

The fact base that underpins any mapping format is the register of equipment and software that you command. This database is assembled automatically by PRTG when you install the software. The network discovery function keeps running, so any changes that you make to your resources gets registered by the monitor. Those changes get rippled through to your network maps automatically.

Who is it recommended for?

It’s ideal for network administrators who need flexible, visually diverse mapping tools to monitor and manage complex network infrastructures.

PRTG installs on Windows. However, you can opt to use the monitor as a cloud-based service. The data collectors of the monitor are called “sensors.” You can get PRTG for free to monitor up to 100 sensors. Paessler offers a 30-day free trial with unlimited sensors so that you can assess the software.

Paessler PRTG Network Mapping Tools Start a 30-day FREE Trial

3. Auvik

Auvik is a cloud platform of network monitoring and management services. It installs an agent on a server on an enrolled network and scans for all devices that create the network and that are connected to it. The data from the scan is uploaded to the Auvik server and is compiled into a network inventory. The platform generates a network map based on the network inventory.

Key Features:

• Automatic Network Discovery: Continuously scans and updates the network inventory to reflect changes in the layout.
• Real-Time Network Mapping: Generates an up-to-date network map every time the feature is accessed, ensuring accurate visualizations.
• SNMP-Based Device Monitoring: Monitors network devices for faults and raises alerts in case of component failures.
• Configuration Backup: Archives device configurations and allows easy rollback to previous versions if changes are detected.
• Traffic Analysis: Analyzes traffic using multiple flow protocols like NetFlow, sFlow, and IPFIX to provide detailed insights on network throughput.

Why do we recommend it?

Auvik is a top choice because of its powerful combination of automated network discovery, real-time mapping, and comprehensive monitoring, which simplifies network management. Its cloud-based nature allows easy deployment and management without the need for extensive on-premises infrastructure.

The discovery scan repeats periodically and updates the network inventory if the layout has changed. The network map is generated whenever the feature is accessed and so any changes in the inventory are immediately reflected in the map.

Other scanning features in the package include an SNMP-based network device monitor. This system records any problems with network devices. It will raise an alert if a component failure occurs. The package also scans devices every 60 minutes to create a configuration image of each. These images are archived. Each successive scan checks whether the settings have been altered. If so, the tool takes another image and stores it alongside earlier versions. This function allows system administrators to roll back to an earlier configuration if a device has been altered to loosen its security settings.

The Auvik platform also provides traffic analysis. The tool uses flow protocols to extract traffic capacity data and live throughput volumes from network devices. The system is equipped with the NetFlow, IPFIX, sFlow, and J-Flow protocols for this purpose.

Who is it recommended for?

Auvik is recommended for IT administrators and network managers who need a robust, cloud-based solution for monitoring and managing complex, distributed networks. It’s particularly useful for organizations looking to automate network mapping and device monitoring with minimal manual intervention.

You can start a free trial.

4. ConceptDraw Pro

For medium size enterprises, ConceptDraw Pro stands its ground against every other network-mapping program on this list. The user interface (clearly inspired by Microsoft Visio) allows you to create a variety of visual displays of your network environment as well as export Visio files. Though it may look like a generic diagram construction tool, it has the depth needed to build complex network designs.

Key Features:

• Intuitive user interface
• Building Plan Designer
• Smart Connector technology
• Visio file compatibility

Why do we recommend it?

ConceptDraw Pro is recommended for its user-friendly interface and advanced features like Building Plan Designer and Smart Connector, which facilitate efficient network blueprint creation.

As a result, features like Building Plan Designer and Smart Connector allow you to automate the entire process of creating a network blueprint. This makes it suitable for organizations looking to keep up with dynamic network environments. This is all the more impressive when you consider that the price tag of ConceptDraw Pro 11 is $199 (£146).

The biggest advantage of ConceptDraw is it’s easy to use. If you’re familiar with Microsoft Word, then you’ll be able to find your way around ConceptDraw with no issue. You can create complex designs while using the simple navigation tree to find what you’re looking for. When starting out with ConceptDraw, newer users simply can’t go wrong.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is ideal for medium-sized enterprises that require a robust yet user-friendly platform for creating complex network designs.

ConceptDraw can be downloaded from the company’s website here.

5. Lucidchart

Lucidchart is one of the less known network mapping platforms that packs a tremendous punch. If you’re looking to fast track your map production, then look no further. From the outset you can launch straight into a template and start building your IT environment. This allows you to hit the ground running and get the basic elements down before you add your own unique network tools (it even has iPhone and Android mockups!).

Key Features:

• Template-based mapping
• iPhone and Android mockups
• UVexplorer compatibility
• Affordable pricing options

Why do we recommend it?

Lucidchart is recommended for its template-based approach and compatibility with UVexplorer, offering a fast and efficient way to create network maps.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for teams or individuals seeking a straightforward, cost-effective tool for rapidly producing network diagrams, especially in collaborative settings.

For a single user, Lucidchart comes in at $4.95 (£3.66) a month but if you want to use the program with an entire team of people, it’s available for $20 (£14.77) a month for three or more people. You can also import Visio files straight into Lucidchart if you have existing diagrams you wish to use. Although you don’t have an inbuilt auto-discovery feature, UVexplorer is now compatible with Lucidchart, so you can use that as an ‘auto discovery plugin’. This platform is available on the Lucidchart website here.

6. Intermapper

Coming in with a price tag of $303 (£223) for 25 devices and $765 (£564) for 25 devices, Intermapper is one of the pricier network mapping tools on this list. This program is available for users on Windows, Linux, and Mac, making it a flexible platform in terms of deployment.

Key Features:

• Auto-discovery function
• Network filtering options
• Color-coded device status
• Multi-platform compatibility

Why do we recommend it?

Intermapper stands out for its auto-discovery capabilities and its intuitive, color-coded interface, making network management and troubleshooting more efficient.

Intermapper was built with auto discovery in mind and will automatically locate devices throughout your network and record them on a map. Intermapper also allows you to filter through to specific parts of your setup. For example, you can view components in your network infrastructure by their location in your office or their floor. This helps tremendously when troubleshooting performance issues.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is best suited for users on various platforms (Windows, Linux, Mac) needing a flexible and detailed tool for network mapping and troubleshooting.

Overall the user interface is simple to use and all working network devices are color coded so you can easily tell when your network is running smoothly. Intermapper can be downloaded from this link here.

7. CADE (Free)

In terms of network diagramming solutions, CADE takes a back-to-basics approach. While there is no fancy GUI, you’ll find that there is an extensive 2D vector editor. CADE is a free application that can be downloaded online. This makes CADE a good choice for teams looking for a suitable remote deployment platform. As a welcome addition, remote users can contribute in real time to a drawing on the web.

Key Features:

• Extensive 2D vector editor
• Real-time remote collaboration
• Multiple export formats
• Unique “draw cable” functionality

Why do we recommend it?

CADE is recommended for its robust 2D vector editor and unique features like real-time remote collaboration and draw cable functionality, offering flexibility in network diagramming.

Once you’ve finished creating your drawings, you can also export them in EMF, JPG, XAML or PDF format. One of the more unique features CADE offers is its “draw cable” functionality. You can draw up unique cables to differentiate between devices. In the event that you need to look at your network more closely, you can simply zoom in (this is invaluable when dealing with an enterprise grade network).

The only issue with CADE is that it lacks an auto discovery feature. While it is incredibly flexible in its design potential, larger enterprises looking for a tool with scalability should go elsewhere. However, if your network environment is unlikely to change drastically within the next 12 months, then this is a solid tool.

Who is it recommended for?

CADE is particularly suitable for teams or individuals looking for a free, flexible tool for remote collaboration on network diagrams.

CADE can be downloaded for free here.

8. Network Topology Mapper

SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper is easily one of the most popular network mapping tools available today. It has all the core components expected from a top-of-the-range network mapping tool without the exorbitant price tag. SolarWinds comes in at a price of $1,537 (£1,135). This includes an auto-discovery feature that can be scheduled to automatically detect new devices and automatically scale according to your IT infrastructure.

Key Features:

• Auto-discovery feature
• Extensive reporting options
• Customizable network elements
• Filter by device type

Why do we recommend it?

We recommend SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper for its robust auto-discovery feature and the ability to generate detailed reports, making it a valuable tool for thorough network analysis.

As a bonus, you can generate extensive reports for switch ports VLANs, and subnet scans. These can then be exported for further analysis if you wish to get a more in-depth perspective. When exporting, you can turn reports into PDF or PNG files and view them with a third-party tool of your choice. You can also filter what you see by device type and network elements if you want to take a microscope to your topology.

What really sets SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper apart from more generic diagram construction tools is its auto-discovery feature. This really helps get your map completed without spending ages building one from scratch with templates.

Who is it recommended for?

It’s particularly suitable for IT professionals and network administrators who require an advanced, feature-rich network mapping tool.

You can download and evaluate SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper on a 14-day free trial here.

9. Dia (Free)

Dia is well advised for those smaller enterprises looking for an entry-level network mapping tool. Dia’s general appearance is somewhat rudimentary but this is somewhat redeemed by its cross-OS availability.

Key Features:

• Cross-OS availability
• Core IT component graphics
• Multiple export formats
• Simplified interface

Why do we recommend it?

Dia is recommended for its simplicity and cross-platform availability, making it a practical choice for smaller enterprises needing basic network mapping tools.

Dia is available for Microsoft Visio on Linux, Mac, Windows and Unix. This cross-platform application allows you to create a range of network maps. It has all the core IT component graphics to allow you to clearly see what your dealing with.

You can save your maps in XML format before exporting them in PNG, SVG, WMG, XFIG or EPS format. Although Dia is a great free tool, it simply isn’t prepared to map out complex network infrastructures. As a result this tool is only recommended for smaller enterprises that want to experiment with a low-cost network diagram mapping tool.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for small enterprises or beginners in network mapping seeking an entry-level, straightforward tool available across multiple operating systems.

You can download Dia for free on the platform website.

10. eDraw

eDraw Max is another network mapping tool with a Microsoft-inspired user interface. Over 200 map template designs can be exported into PNG, JPEG and PDF formats. eDraw is more of a generalist diagram tool rather than a specific network mapper. However, its capacity to map out flow charts and complex layouts makes it a solid choice for drawing up a network plan.

Key Features:

• Over 200 map templates
• Zoom-in without distortion
• Multiple export formats
• Generalist diagram tool

Why do we recommend it?

eDraw Max is recommended for its extensive template library and the ability to zoom into network objects without distortion, making it versatile for various diagramming needs.

One of the features that makes eDraw extremely useful is that you can zoom into your network objects without distorting the image. eDraw can handle complex diagrams, but if you’re looking for auto-discovery and a tool specifically made for network mapping, you’re probably better off with something like SolarWind’s Network Topology mapper.

Who is it recommended for?

Best suited for users who require a generalist diagram tool that can handle complex layouts with ease, including network mapping.

eDraw has a free trial period, but if you wish to purchase you will need to pay $179 (£132) for a perpetual license. Alternatively you can purchase a lifetime license for $245 (£180) or a subscription license for $99 (£73) per year. eDraw Map Pro can be downloaded from the eDraw website here.

11. LanFlow

LanFlow is tailor-made for mapping out networks. As a result, it is a great choice for network administrators looking for a topology tool with a simple user interface. Everything in LanFlow is drag and drop, so if you want to add a new element to your diagram, all you need to do is click and move it.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-drop interface
• Connectors for complex designs
• Free vector graphics
• Flexible licensing options

Why do we recommend it?

LanFlow is recommended for its user-friendly drag and drop interface and its ability to handle complex network designs with ease, thanks to its connector features.

You can also click on the Connectors tab to link diagram elements together (this is very useful when working with more complex network designs).

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for network administrators who prefer a straightforward, visual approach to network topology design, especially in complex settings.

LanFlow is available on a single-user license for $99 (£73), up to nine single user licenses for $639 (£471). All the onboard diagrams and devices like computers and laptops are vector free so that you can zoom in and out as needed. LanFlow can be downloaded from the Pacestar website here.

12. NetProbe

NetProbe is a diverse Windows-based network topology tool. From the moment you download, NetProbe is simple to use throughout the design process. Simply open up the startup wizard and you can start designing your network from scratch. However, NetProbe isn’t your run-of-the-mill network mapping tool either: you can conduct real-time monitoring as well.

Key Features:

• Real-time monitoring
• Device information logging
• Local script support
• Scalable to large networks

Why do we recommend it?

NetProbe is recommended for its combination of network mapping and real-time monitoring capabilities, making it a versatile tool for both design and management.

You can also log device information and use it to run local scripts to create graphs and alarms. All-in-all this is a good tool for users seeking a topology tool with an extra touch of network monitoring potential as well. While it doesn’t have the lean design of some of the other tools on this list, it still offers a very competitive package.

Who is it recommended for?

Best suited for users who need a comprehensive tool that not only maps networks but also offers real-time monitoring and logging capabilities.

The Pro version costs $40 (£29) and covers up to 20 hosts, or buy the Enterprise version for $295 (£217) to accommodate up to 400 hosts. The quality of the core product and its scalability makes NetProbe a solid choice for SME’s and large enterprises alike. This platform can be downloaded from the NetProbe website here.

13. Network Notepad (Free)

Network Notepad is a freeware application available for Windows made specifically for mapping out network elements. While Network Notepad doesn’t have an extensive auto-discovery feature, it does have the Cisco Discovery Protocol Neighbor Tool (CPD), which can speed up the discovery process. The CPD tool allows the user to search through their network devices and pull information from elements with CDP information.

Key Features:

• CDP Neighbor Tool
• Vector-based graphics
• Multi-page diagrams

Why do we recommend it?

Network Notepad is recommended for its Cisco Discovery Protocol Neighbor Tool and vector-based graphics, making it a solid choice for detailed network mapping on a budget.

In terms of diagram construction, you can create multi-page diagrams with vector-based graphics, dragging and dropping elements in as you see fit. You can also create flow charts if you want to add more visual display.

Who is it recommended for?

This tool is particularly suitable for users requiring a free, functional network mapping tool with Cisco Discovery Protocol support.

The core version is free, or you can purchase the Professional License for $24.00 (£18.00). Network Notepad can be downloaded from the platform website here.

14. Microsoft Visio

In the world of network mapping tools, Microsoft Visio is somewhat of a household name. This nifty product has helped to inspire many other network mapping tools on this list. Visio comes in at a hefty price tag of $299 (£220) for the standard version and $590 (£435) for the pro version. For this price you buy the luxury of using over 70 templates and thousands of IT image objects to map your network.

Key Features:

• Over 70 templates
• Thousands of IT image objects
• Sharp default diagrams
• High customization potential

Why do we recommend it?

Microsoft Visio is recommended for its extensive range of templates and IT image objects, coupled with sharp, customizable diagrams, making it a top choice for professional network mapping.

One of the most noticeable things about Visio is its slick design. The default diagrams look very sharp, which makes it more convenient to draw distinguishable network maps. Unfortunately, Microsoft Visio is let down by its price. Though it offers an extensive suite of network mapping features, it doesn’t offer an auto-discovery feature. That being said, if you’re looking for a diagramming tool made specifically for network administrators, then look no further.

Who is it recommended for?

Ideal for professionals who require a sophisticated, feature-rich tool for creating detailed and visually appealing network diagrams.

Visio can be downloaded from the Microsoft website here.

Network Maps: Showing You the Way Forward

Designing a network map from scratch can seem like an impossible task in the beginning, but with the help of a network mapping and topology tool, it doesn’t have to be. Employing the assistance of a network mapping tool will ensure you don’t have to spend hours plotting your network on a map just to get to grips with your IT environment. If you want to be even more time-efficient, you can opt for a tool with auto-discovery like SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper.

In the world of network monitoring, network diagram mapping tools are very underrated. Many enterprises spend thousands on network monitoring suites but overlook the importance of managing their network infrastructure from a geographical perspective. Network topology tools are essential for restoring balance.

By incorporating network topology tools into your current network monitoring environment, you ensure the bare minimum standard of visibility necessary to see a complete view of your network. Ultimately, the better your view is, the more you’re able to adapt to the needs of the future. This not only allows you to maintain the integrity of your network but, helps take your performance to the next level.