Quick Overview
- 1#1: SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper - Automatically discovers network devices and generates detailed topology maps with exportable diagrams.
- 2#2: NetBrain - Delivers dynamic, real-time network maps for troubleshooting, planning, and compliance visualization.
- 3#3: Auvik - Cloud-based auto-discovery and mapping of networks with device dependencies and configuration backups.
- 4#4: Domotz - Provides remote network discovery, mapping, and monitoring for MSPs with real-time topology views.
- 5#5: ManageEngine OpManager - Offers automated network topology mapping integrated with performance monitoring and alerts.
- 6#6: PRTG Network Monitor - Creates interactive network maps from auto-discovered devices with real-time monitoring data.
- 7#7: WhatsUp Gold - Discovers and maps network infrastructure with customizable maps and layer 2/3 topology views.
- 8#8: Intermapper - Generates real-time, auto-updating network maps with customizable layouts and alert integration.
- 9#9: diagrams.net - Free diagramming tool with network stencils for creating custom topology maps and exports.
- 10#10: The Dude - Free tool for network discovery, mapping, and monitoring with customizable device layouts.
Tools were evaluated based on criteria like auto-discovery efficiency, real-time mapping accuracy, integration with monitoring and alerts, ease of use, and overall value proposition for varied user bases.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines top network mapping software, featuring SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper, NetBrain, Auvik, Domotz, ManageEngine OpManager, and more, to outline key capabilities, usability, and suitability for different network sizes. Readers will gain insights into each tool's unique strengths and ideal use cases, aiding in informed decisions for efficient network monitoring and management.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper Automatically discovers network devices and generates detailed topology maps with exportable diagrams. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | NetBrain Delivers dynamic, real-time network maps for troubleshooting, planning, and compliance visualization. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Auvik Cloud-based auto-discovery and mapping of networks with device dependencies and configuration backups. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Domotz Provides remote network discovery, mapping, and monitoring for MSPs with real-time topology views. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | ManageEngine OpManager Offers automated network topology mapping integrated with performance monitoring and alerts. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 6 | PRTG Network Monitor Creates interactive network maps from auto-discovered devices with real-time monitoring data. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | WhatsUp Gold Discovers and maps network infrastructure with customizable maps and layer 2/3 topology views. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Intermapper Generates real-time, auto-updating network maps with customizable layouts and alert integration. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | diagrams.net Free diagramming tool with network stencils for creating custom topology maps and exports. | other | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 10/10 |
| 10 | The Dude Free tool for network discovery, mapping, and monitoring with customizable device layouts. | other | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
Automatically discovers network devices and generates detailed topology maps with exportable diagrams.
Delivers dynamic, real-time network maps for troubleshooting, planning, and compliance visualization.
Cloud-based auto-discovery and mapping of networks with device dependencies and configuration backups.
Provides remote network discovery, mapping, and monitoring for MSPs with real-time topology views.
Offers automated network topology mapping integrated with performance monitoring and alerts.
Creates interactive network maps from auto-discovered devices with real-time monitoring data.
Discovers and maps network infrastructure with customizable maps and layer 2/3 topology views.
Generates real-time, auto-updating network maps with customizable layouts and alert integration.
Free diagramming tool with network stencils for creating custom topology maps and exports.
Free tool for network discovery, mapping, and monitoring with customizable device layouts.
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper
enterpriseAutomatically discovers network devices and generates detailed topology maps with exportable diagrams.
Automated Layer 2/3 topology discovery that accurately maps physical and virtual connections, including VLANs and dependencies, in a single scan
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper (NTM) is a robust on-premises network discovery and diagramming tool that automatically detects devices, links, and dependencies across Layer 2/3 networks using protocols like SNMP, ICMP, CDP/LLDP, and WMI. It generates interactive, customizable topology maps and diagrams that can be updated on-demand or scheduled, supporting virtualization platforms like VMware and Hyper-V. Users can export maps to Visio, PDF, PNG, or SVG formats for documentation and sharing, making it ideal for network visualization and change management.
Pros
- Comprehensive auto-discovery supporting SNMP v1/v2/v3, ICMP, WMI, CDP/LLDP, and virtualization integration
- Customizable, interactive maps with filtering, labeling, and automatic layout optimization
- Flexible export options including Visio stencils and scheduled discovery for ongoing network documentation
Cons
- High upfront cost for perpetual license without free tier or trial limitations
- Windows-only deployment, lacking native cloud or multi-platform support
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization and large-scale deployments
Best For
Enterprise IT administrators and network engineers managing complex, on-premises infrastructures who require automated, detailed topology mapping and documentation.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at approximately $1,495 for standard edition, plus optional annual maintenance (~20% of license cost); volume discounts available for larger deployments.
NetBrain
enterpriseDelivers dynamic, real-time network maps for troubleshooting, planning, and compliance visualization.
Intent-driven runbooks that dynamically test network paths and automate expert troubleshooting workflows
NetBrain is an enterprise-grade network mapping and automation platform that automatically discovers, visualizes, and maps complex network topologies in real-time across multi-vendor environments. It enables IT teams to create dynamic maps, runbooks, and golden configurations for troubleshooting, change management, and compliance. By capturing network intent and behavior, it bridges the gap between network design and operations, reducing mean time to resolution (MTTR) significantly.
Pros
- Real-time dynamic topology mapping with multi-layer visibility
- Intent-based runbooks for automated troubleshooting and knowledge capture
- Seamless integration with ITSM, monitoring, and orchestration tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Enterprise pricing may be prohibitive for SMBs
- Limited on-premises flexibility compared to cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Large enterprises managing complex, hybrid/multi-vendor networks that require advanced automation, visibility, and rapid issue resolution.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on network size and modules; perpetual licenses also available.
Auvik
enterpriseCloud-based auto-discovery and mapping of networks with device dependencies and configuration backups.
Real-time automated topology mapping that instantly detects and visualizes network changes without manual intervention
Auvik is a cloud-based network management platform specializing in automated discovery and visualization of network infrastructure. It generates interactive, layer 2/3 topology maps that automatically update in real-time as changes occur, helping IT teams quickly understand dependencies and troubleshoot issues. Beyond mapping, it provides monitoring, alerting, configuration backups, and traffic analysis for comprehensive network oversight.
Pros
- Automated real-time network mapping with accurate topology visualization
- Agentless deployment and intuitive interface for quick setup
- Seamless integrations with ticketing systems and strong MSP multi-tenant support
Cons
- Pricing scales steeply with billable devices, less ideal for small networks
- Some advanced analytics locked behind higher tiers
- Customization options for maps are somewhat limited
Best For
MSPs and mid-sized IT teams managing complex, multi-site networks who need automated visibility and change tracking.
Pricing
Subscription-based on billable devices (e.g., $13.50/device/month for Essentials); minimums apply, custom quotes typically start at $150/month with Performance and Elite tiers available.
Domotz
specializedProvides remote network discovery, mapping, and monitoring for MSPs with real-time topology views.
Interactive network topology maps with one-click remote access and logical/physical layer views
Domotz is a cloud-based remote monitoring and management (RMM) platform that excels in automatic network discovery and interactive topology mapping for IT infrastructure. It scans networks agentlessly using protocols like SNMP, ICMP, and WMI to visualize device relationships, monitor performance, and provide real-time alerts. Beyond mapping, it offers remote access tools, ticketing integrations, and bandwidth analysis, making it suitable for proactive network management.
Pros
- Agentless auto-discovery and interactive topology maps for quick visualization
- Real-time alerts, remote toolbox, and mobile app for on-the-go management
- Scalable for SMBs with strong integrations like Slack and Microsoft Teams
Cons
- Mapping depth limited for very large or complex enterprise networks
- Advanced analytics and custom reports require higher-tier plans
- Cloud dependency can introduce minor latency during remote sessions
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses and MSPs needing user-friendly remote network mapping and monitoring without on-premises hardware.
Pricing
Starts at $35/month (Pro, 25 devices), $85/month (Business, 250 devices), Enterprise custom; 14-day free trial, billed per active device.
ManageEngine OpManager
enterpriseOffers automated network topology mapping integrated with performance monitoring and alerts.
Automated Layer 2 topology mapping with real-time link status and dependency visualization
ManageEngine OpManager is a robust network monitoring platform with strong network mapping capabilities, featuring automated device discovery via SNMP, ICMP, and CLI to generate accurate Layer 2 topology maps. It supports customizable business views, three-dimensional rack visualizations, and link monitoring for comprehensive network topology representation. Beyond mapping, it integrates fault management, performance monitoring, and reporting, making it a holistic solution for network oversight.
Pros
- Automated Layer 2 topology discovery and mapping with drag-and-drop editing
- Customizable business views and 3D rack perspectives for intuitive visualization
- Seamless integration with other ManageEngine tools for extended monitoring
Cons
- Resource-intensive on large-scale networks requiring significant server specs
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization and scripting
- Pricing model scales aggressively with device count
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams in enterprises needing integrated network mapping and monitoring without excessive complexity.
Pricing
Free edition for up to 10 devices; paid Standard edition starts at $245/year for 10 devices, with Professional and Enterprise tiers scaling per monitored device.
PRTG Network Monitor
enterpriseCreates interactive network maps from auto-discovered devices with real-time monitoring data.
Automated discovery with interactive, real-time topology maps that overlay live sensor data
PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler is an all-in-one network monitoring tool with robust network mapping features, automatically discovering devices and creating interactive topology maps. It visualizes network structure, dependencies, and real-time status through customizable sensors and dashboards. Ideal for ongoing monitoring, the maps integrate performance data like bandwidth usage and device health for proactive management.
Pros
- Automatic device discovery and dynamic map generation
- Real-time interactive maps with overlaid monitoring data
- Highly customizable maps and extensive sensor library
Cons
- Sensor-based licensing escalates costs for large networks
- Steep learning curve for advanced mapping customization
- Resource-intensive on the host server for complex environments
Best For
IT teams in mid-sized to large organizations seeking integrated network monitoring and mapping.
Pricing
Free for up to 100 sensors; paid plans start at ~$1,750/year for 500 sensors, with perpetual licenses and sensor scaling options.
WhatsUp Gold
enterpriseDiscovers and maps network infrastructure with customizable maps and layer 2/3 topology views.
Dynamic Layer 2/3 topology mapping with automatic discovery and real-time updates
WhatsUp Gold, developed by Progress Software, is a robust network management platform that automates device discovery and generates detailed layer 2 and layer 3 topology maps for visualizing network infrastructure. It enables IT teams to monitor performance, track dependencies, and identify issues through interactive maps that update in real-time. Beyond mapping, it integrates alerting, reporting, and analytics for comprehensive network oversight.
Pros
- Powerful automated discovery and dynamic layer 2/3 mapping
- Highly customizable dashboards and reports
- Scalable for large, complex enterprise networks
Cons
- Steep initial setup and configuration time
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern alternatives
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, dynamic networks requiring detailed topology mapping and integrated monitoring.
Pricing
Subscription-based; starts at around $1,995 per device license annually, with custom quotes for distributed editions.
Intermapper
specializedGenerates real-time, auto-updating network maps with customizable layouts and alert integration.
Dynamic, auto-updating maps that provide live visual feedback on network status and changes
Intermapper, from Fortra, is a network mapping and monitoring software that automatically discovers devices and creates dynamic, real-time visualizations of network topology. It monitors performance metrics, bandwidth usage, and device status, with interactive maps that update instantly to reflect changes. The tool supports customizable alerts, web-based access, and integration with various protocols for comprehensive network oversight.
Pros
- Automatic discovery and real-time mapping
- Highly customizable and interactive dashboards
- Robust alerting system with multiple notification options
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for large networks
- Limited advanced analytics compared to top competitors
- Steeper learning curve for complex configurations
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams needing intuitive, real-time network visualization and monitoring without extensive setup.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$395 per concurrent map per year, with enterprise tiers and volume discounts.
diagrams.net
otherFree diagramming tool with network stencils for creating custom topology maps and exports.
Massive, industry-standard library of vector network symbols with full customization and import/export in 20+ formats
diagrams.net (formerly Draw.io) is a free, open-source diagramming tool specialized for creating custom network diagrams, flowcharts, and technical illustrations. It provides an extensive library of network-specific shapes including routers, switches, servers, firewalls, and cloud icons, allowing users to manually map out complex topologies with layers, grouping, and styling options. The tool supports offline editing and seamless integration with cloud storage like Google Drive and OneDrive for easy sharing and collaboration.
Pros
- Completely free with no feature limitations or subscriptions
- Vast, searchable library of customizable network icons and shapes
- Offline capability and cross-platform support (desktop, web, integrations)
Cons
- No automated network discovery or real-time scanning capabilities
- Steeper learning curve for advanced layouts and custom styling
- Basic collaboration features compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Network engineers and IT teams needing a flexible, no-cost solution for manually designing and documenting static network diagrams.
Pricing
Entirely free for core features; optional paid add-ons for advanced integrations like Atlassian Confluence ($5-10/user/month).
The Dude
otherFree tool for network discovery, mapping, and monitoring with customizable device layouts.
Automatic network discovery and dynamic topology mapping that updates in real-time with device status colors
The Dude is a free network monitoring and mapping application from MikroTik that automatically discovers devices via SNMP, ICMP, DNS, and other protocols to create visual topology maps. It provides real-time monitoring of device status, services, bandwidth usage, and performance metrics with customizable alerts for issues like downtime or high latency. Primarily aimed at small to medium networks, it integrates seamlessly with MikroTik RouterOS for enhanced visibility into router-specific data.
Pros
- Completely free with no licensing costs
- Automatic device discovery and intuitive topology mapping
- Strong integration with MikroTik hardware and RouterOS
Cons
- Outdated graphical user interface feels clunky
- Limited scalability for enterprise-level networks
- Windows-only client with no native web or mobile access
Best For
Admins managing small to medium-sized networks with MikroTik routers who need basic mapping and monitoring on a budget.
Pricing
Free (included with MikroTik RouterOS or standalone download)
Conclusion
After reviewing 10 powerful network mapping tools, the top picks cater to varied needs: SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper leads with its automatic discovery and detailed exportable diagrams, NetBrain impresses with real-time, dynamic troubleshooting views, and Auvik stands out for cloud-based, dependency-focused mapping. Together, these solutions highlight the breadth of options for managing networks effectively, from basic visualizations to complex monitoring.
Unlock efficient network management by starting with SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper, or explore NetBrain or Auvik if cloud flexibility or real-time insights are your key priorities—each delivers exceptional value to suit your unique setup.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
