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The expansion of enterprise networks is expected to continue as cloud computing, edge computing, and the widespread use of 5G technology continue to bring about changes in the way that enterprise networks function. Irrespective of whether you are attempting to resolve speed issues, locate security flaws, or conduct audits on how users interact with gadgets, it can be challenging to navigate a massive network that is this complicated.
This is where a network diagram comes in helpful; it enables you to understand in a clear and concise manner how the various linkages and components of the network are related. The sophisticated network diagram software that is capable of performing automatic updates makes it simple for individuals of varying levels of expertise to comprehend the intricate web of connections that exists within the network.
People are able to make better decisions as a result of this, which also makes operations function more smoothly. The fact that I have firsthand experience demonstrates that having such a comprehensive visual representation not only makes the process of troubleshooting more efficient, but it also improves the overall control and security of the network.
Best Network Diagram Software Comparison Table
Any organisation needs a computer network diagram. Most multi-computer internet networks start with the server and work down to the PC using this arrangement. Visualising network devices, virtual domains, mobile components, and device inter-dependencies in network maps aids network monitoring and troubleshooting.
Feature | Auvik | Microsoft Visio | SmartDraw | SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper | Site24x7 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Primary Function | Network device management & automation | Diagramming & visualization | Diagramming & visualization | Network device discovery & visualization | Network monitoring & visualization |
Compression | Not directly applicable | Optional file compression (ZIP, VDX) | Optional file compression (VSX) | Not directly applicable | Not directly applicable |
Strengths | Network automation, real-time monitoring | Powerful diagramming features, extensive templates | User-friendly interface, collaboration tools | Network discovery, automated mapping | Network performance monitoring, real-time alerts |
Weaknesses | Limited diagramming features | Steeper learning curve, cost | Steeper learning curve compared to Auvik | Limited automation compared to Auvik | Limited diagramming flexibility |
Ideal for | Network administrators, IT operations | Professional diagrammers, cross-functional teams | Businesses needing user-friendly diagramming | Network administrators, NOC teams | Network operations teams, network monitoring specialists |
Best Network Diagram Software
There is a picture called a network diagram that shows all the links in a network. A full network visualisation lets people see how the network’s devices, links, paths, and data flows are set up right now.
Auvik

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Real-Time Network Mapping | Automatically discovers and visualizes network devices and their connections in real-time. |
Traffic Insights | Offers detailed insights into network traffic and usage patterns. |
Automated Config Backups | Provides automatic backups for network device configurations, ensuring easy recovery. |
Integrated Alerting System | Customizable alerts for network issues, enabling rapid response to prevent downtime. |
Cloud-Based | Accessible from anywhere, facilitating remote network management without needing onsite hardware. |
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Auvik is unique because it is a cloud-based network control platform that includes network mapping features without any problems. It quickly makes visual maps of network infrastructure by automatically discovering devices and tracking their health and performance in real time. This mix of features makes sure that all network resources are managed well and that there is full control.
The Good
- Real-time monitoring and updates
- Comprehensive traffic analytics
- Simplifies network management tasks
- Enhances network security with configuration backups
- Cloud-based for easy access and scalability
The Bad
- Can be complex for beginners
- Pricing might be steep for small organizations
Microsoft Visio

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Versatile Diagramming | Supports creating a wide range of diagrams including flowcharts and floor plans. |
Collaboration | Allows multiple users to work on diagrams simultaneously. |
Integration | Works seamlessly with other Microsoft products like Office and SharePoint. |
Templates and Shapes | Offers a vast library of templates and shapes to streamline design work. |
Data Linking | Enables linking diagrams to real-time data for dynamic visualizations. |
Microsoft Visio shows itself to be a flexible tool for making diagrams and vector drawings, letting you make your own network diagrams. Even though Visio wasn’t really made to be a network management tool, it does let users make complex network visualisations that fit their needs.
The Good
- Highly versatile and powerful
- Supports collaboration
- Extensive library of templates and shapes
- Good integration with Microsoft ecosystem
The Bad
- Can be expensive
- May have a steep learning curve for complex features
SmartDraw

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Intuitive Diagramming | Easy-to-use interface for creating various diagrams with minimal effort. |
Extensive Template Library | Includes thousands of templates for quick and easy diagram creation. |
Automatic Formatting | Automatically formats diagrams for a professional look with minimal effort. |
Collaboration Features | Allows for easy sharing and collaboration on diagrams across teams. |
Integration Capabilities | Supports integration with popular tools like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. |
SmartDraw is another diagramming program that you can use. It has a large library of network symbols and themes. SmartDraw lets you make network diagrams like Visio, but it might not have the automation features that are common in network management software.
The Good
- User-friendly interface
- Wide range of templates and symbols
- Facilitates collaboration and sharing
- Strong integration options
The Bad
- Limited customization options compared to some competitors
- Subscription model may not suit all users
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper

Feature | Description |
---|---|
Automated Network Discovery | Automatically discovers and maps network devices and their connections. |
Multi-Layer Network Maps | Generates detailed maps that include Layer 2 and Layer 3 connectivity. |
Export Options | Allows for export of network maps to Microsoft Office, PDF, and PNG formats. |
Customizable Views | Offers customizable views and maps to focus on specific network elements. |
Scheduled Scanning | Enables scheduled network scans to ensure up-to-date network topology documentation. |
The SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper is a useful tool that makes a significant contribution. It provides extensive insights into network architecture while simultaneously proactively identifying possible problems by combining capabilities for network mapping and discovery with real-time monitoring and warning services.
The Good
- Automates the creation of detailed network maps
- Supports multiple layers of network topology
- Flexible export options
- Customization and scheduled scans enhance usability
The Bad
- Learning curve for advanced features
- License cost may be prohibitive for smaller networks
Site24x7

Feature | Description |
---|---|
All-in-One Monitoring | Provides monitoring for websites, servers, cloud, applications, and network infrastructures. |
Global Monitoring Points | Offers monitoring points around the world to test website availability and performance. |
Real User Monitoring | Tracks and analyzes the experience of actual users visiting your website or application. |
Alerting System | Customizable alerts for performance issues, downtime, and anomalies. |
Integration Capabilities | Supports integration with popular development and operational tools. |
Network mapping is a significant component of Site24x7’s comprehensive approach to monitoring information technology infrastructure, which is offered by the company. Through the provision of real-time visibility into network performance in conjunction with troubleshooting tools, it makes it possible to manage and optimise network resources in a proactive manner.
The Good
- Comprehensive monitoring solutions
- Global perspective with worldwide monitoring points
- Insight into real user experiences
- Extensive integration capabilities
The Bad
- Can be complex to set up for beginners
- Pricing may escalate quickly with add-ons and scale
Factors to Consider When Choosing Network Diagram Software
Network planning, implementation, management, and troubleshooting are greatly affected by the network diagram tool you use. Consider these aspects while choosing a tool for your needs:
- Usability: The product should have an easy-to-use interface that requires little training. Drag-and-drop, quick navigation, and a clear, user-friendly design can boost productivity.
- Compatibility and Integration: Make sure the tool works with your existing systems and integrates with other network administration, documentation, and monitoring applications. Operating systems, cloud platforms, and other software may be compatible.
- Scalability: The tool should grow with your network. This means it should handle larger network layouts without performance degradation and allow network growth without substantial cost or tool change.
- Choose a diagram-customization tool. This includes configurable icons, layouts, and extensive device and connection descriptions and annotations. Flexible design lets you customise diagrams to your organization’s specifications.
- Features and Functionality: Assess features like automatic diagram generation, real-time updates, version control, and capability to construct physical, logical, and topology diagrams. Simulation or integration with network monitoring systems for real-time status information are advanced features.
- Collaboration: Sharing schematics with team members, management, and external stakeholders is essential in many settings. Collaboration tools should have multiple user access, comment functions, and safe sharing.
- Security: Protect sensitive data with strong tool security. If diagrams contain precise network settings, IP addresses, or other exploitable information, this is crucial.
- Cost: Compare cost to budget and ROI. Some tools are subscription-based, while others are one-time purchases. Consider updates and support expenditures over time. Consider whether free tools match your needs and their drawbacks.
- Support and Community: Complex network settings require reliable customer support. An active user community can give templates, tutorials, and troubleshooting tips.
- Documentation & Export Options: Diagrams must be exported in PDF, PNG, and Visio formats for documentation, presentations, and compliance. Good tool documentation can help manage and maintain the network over time.
Questions and Answers
Many templates, shapes, and symbols in Visio cover different types of networks, such as LAN, WAN, and wireless. This makes it a useful tool for network planning. The parts and properties of the network diagram can be changed, such as the colour, size, text, layout, and alignment.
There are a lot of different ways to make a network diagram, but the two most popular are the precedence diagramming method (PDM) and the arrow diagramming method (ADM). They use the priority diagramming method to make their network diagrams these days.
A Gantt chart might be enough to see and manage the project plan for simple projects with few tasks and clear dependencies. For bigger projects with lots of complicated task dependencies, a network model can help you see how the tasks are connected more clearly.