Quick Overview
- 1#1: SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper - Automatically discovers network devices and generates detailed, multi-level topology diagrams.
- 2#2: NetBrain - Provides dynamic, interactive network mapping and visualization for complex enterprise environments.
- 3#3: Auvik - Cloud-based platform that automatically maps and monitors network topology in real-time.
- 4#4: ManageEngine OpManager - Offers automated network discovery, topology mapping, and performance monitoring.
- 5#5: PRTG Network Monitor - Creates interactive topology maps using sensor-based network discovery and monitoring.
- 6#6: WhatsUp Gold - Discovers and maps network topology with customizable maps and real-time monitoring.
- 7#7: Intermapper - Delivers real-time, color-coded network maps with automatic discovery and alerts.
- 8#8: LogicMonitor - SaaS observability platform featuring dynamic network topology mapping and insights.
- 9#9: Microsoft Visio - Professional diagramming tool with extensive stencils for designing network topologies.
- 10#10: Lucidchart - Collaborative online diagramming software for creating and sharing network topology maps.
We ranked these tools based on a blend of robust features (e.g., automated mapping, real-time monitoring), user experience, reliability, and overall value, ensuring a balanced selection that caters to both enterprise and niche requirements.
Comparison Table
Network topology software is vital for visualizing, managing, and maintaining network infrastructure, supporting efficient troubleshooting and scalability. This comparison table examines tools including SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper, NetBrain, Auvik, ManageEngine OpManager, and PRTG Network Monitor, among others, to outline their key features. Readers will gain insights into suitability for various network sizes, ease of use, and unique capabilities to inform their software selection.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper Automatically discovers network devices and generates detailed, multi-level topology diagrams. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | NetBrain Provides dynamic, interactive network mapping and visualization for complex enterprise environments. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Auvik Cloud-based platform that automatically maps and monitors network topology in real-time. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 4 | ManageEngine OpManager Offers automated network discovery, topology mapping, and performance monitoring. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | PRTG Network Monitor Creates interactive topology maps using sensor-based network discovery and monitoring. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | WhatsUp Gold Discovers and maps network topology with customizable maps and real-time monitoring. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Intermapper Delivers real-time, color-coded network maps with automatic discovery and alerts. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 8 | LogicMonitor SaaS observability platform featuring dynamic network topology mapping and insights. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Microsoft Visio Professional diagramming tool with extensive stencils for designing network topologies. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Lucidchart Collaborative online diagramming software for creating and sharing network topology maps. | creative_suite | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.0/10 |
Automatically discovers network devices and generates detailed, multi-level topology diagrams.
Provides dynamic, interactive network mapping and visualization for complex enterprise environments.
Cloud-based platform that automatically maps and monitors network topology in real-time.
Offers automated network discovery, topology mapping, and performance monitoring.
Creates interactive topology maps using sensor-based network discovery and monitoring.
Discovers and maps network topology with customizable maps and real-time monitoring.
Delivers real-time, color-coded network maps with automatic discovery and alerts.
SaaS observability platform featuring dynamic network topology mapping and insights.
Professional diagramming tool with extensive stencils for designing network topologies.
Collaborative online diagramming software for creating and sharing network topology maps.
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper
enterpriseAutomatically discovers network devices and generates detailed, multi-level topology diagrams.
Advanced multi-protocol auto-discovery that builds precise L2/L3 maps without manual configuration, even in dynamic or hybrid networks
SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper (NTM) is an on-premises network discovery and mapping tool that automatically scans and visualizes network topologies across layer 2 and layer 3. It supports multiple protocols like SNMP, WMI, ICMP, CDP, and LLDP for comprehensive device detection in multi-vendor environments. Users can create customizable diagrams, schedule automated scans, and export maps to Visio, PDF, PNG, and other formats for documentation and troubleshooting.
Pros
- Powerful multi-protocol auto-discovery for accurate topology mapping
- Highly customizable maps with drag-and-drop editing and scheduling
- Seamless export options including Visio integration and detailed reporting
Cons
- Windows-only deployment limits flexibility
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced customization
- Higher upfront cost may deter small networks
Best For
Enterprise network administrators managing complex, multi-vendor infrastructures who require automated, detailed topology visualization and documentation.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,495 per technician, with optional annual maintenance around 20-25% of license cost.
NetBrain
enterpriseProvides dynamic, interactive network mapping and visualization for complex enterprise environments.
Intent-based dynamic maps that provide real-time, drill-down topology visualization with baseline comparisons via Golden Topology
NetBrain is an enterprise-grade network automation and visibility platform specializing in dynamic, real-time topology mapping for complex networks. It automatically discovers devices, links, and configurations across multi-vendor environments using SNMP, CLI, NetFlow, and other protocols, creating interactive visual maps for troubleshooting, planning, and compliance. The software's 'Golden Topology' feature captures baseline network states to compare against live views, accelerating issue resolution and change management.
Pros
- Real-time dynamic topology mapping with multi-vendor support
- Powerful troubleshooting via Q-App scripting and Golden Topology snapshots
- Automation for runbooks, compliance audits, and change planning
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High enterprise-level pricing with quote-based model
- Initial setup can be time-intensive for large networks
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multi-vendor networks needing automated visibility, troubleshooting, and change management.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically starting at $20,000+ annually depending on network size and features.
Auvik
enterpriseCloud-based platform that automatically maps and monitors network topology in real-time.
Real-time automated topology mapping that dynamically updates with network changes for always-accurate visualizations
Auvik is a cloud-based network monitoring and management platform renowned for its automated network discovery and real-time topology mapping capabilities. It generates interactive layer 2 and layer 3 network diagrams that visualize device connections, traffic flows, and dependencies across multi-vendor environments. In addition to topology visualization, Auvik provides continuous monitoring, configuration backups, alerting, and detailed inventory management to streamline network operations.
Pros
- Automated real-time network discovery and topology mapping
- Interactive visual diagrams with drill-down capabilities
- Integrated monitoring, alerting, and config management
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with device count
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Cloud-only deployment limits on-premises options
Best For
MSPs and mid-sized IT teams managing complex, multi-client networks that require automated discovery and ongoing visualization.
Pricing
Per-billable-device model starting at ~$13/device/month (Essentials tier), up to $20+/device for advanced tiers; minimums apply with custom enterprise quotes.
ManageEngine OpManager
enterpriseOffers automated network discovery, topology mapping, and performance monitoring.
Automated Layer 2 topology mapping with dependency views and drill-down analytics
ManageEngine OpManager is a comprehensive network monitoring and management solution that excels in automated discovery and visualization of network topology. It generates Layer 2 and Layer 3 maps, business views, and 3D rack diagrams to provide a clear picture of network infrastructure. The tool monitors device performance, faults, and traffic in real-time, enabling proactive issue resolution.
Pros
- Automated network discovery and Layer 2/3 topology mapping
- Real-time performance monitoring with customizable dashboards
- Integration with other ManageEngine tools for extended visibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced configuration
- Resource-intensive on large-scale deployments
- Pricing escalates quickly with device count
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams in enterprises seeking robust network monitoring with detailed topology visualization.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 devices; Standard edition starts at ~$395/year for 10 devices, scaling to $11,000+ for Enterprise with 250+ devices.
PRTG Network Monitor
enterpriseCreates interactive topology maps using sensor-based network discovery and monitoring.
Auto-discovery with interactive, dependency-aware network maps that update in real-time
PRTG Network Monitor is a comprehensive network monitoring tool from Paessler that excels in real-time performance tracking, device health checks, and automated network topology mapping. It uses a sensor-based system with over 250 sensor types to discover devices automatically and generate interactive, dynamic maps visualizing connections, dependencies, and traffic flow. While primarily a monitoring solution, its topology features provide clear visual insights into network structure for troubleshooting and planning.
Pros
- Automatic device discovery and dynamic topology mapping
- Extensive library of 250+ sensors for detailed monitoring
- Customizable dashboards and real-time alerting
Cons
- Sensor-based licensing model scales expensively
- User interface appears dated and cluttered
- Steep learning curve for complex configurations
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams in enterprises seeking integrated network monitoring with reliable topology visualization.
Pricing
Free for up to 100 sensors; paid licenses start at $1,899 for 500 sensors, scaling to $15,999+ for unlimited sensors with annual maintenance.
WhatsUp Gold
enterpriseDiscovers and maps network topology with customizable maps and real-time monitoring.
Intelligent auto-discovery with Layer 2/3 mapping and dependency views for instant, accurate network topology visualization
WhatsUp Gold is a robust network monitoring platform with strong capabilities in automated device discovery and interactive topology mapping, providing visual representations of network infrastructure including Layer 2/3 details and dependencies. It offers real-time performance monitoring, alerting, and reporting to help IT teams detect and resolve issues quickly. The software supports scalable deployment for distributed environments, making it suitable for visualizing and managing complex networks.
Pros
- Automated discovery and dynamic mapping for quick topology visualization
- Real-time monitoring with customizable alerts and dashboards
- Scalable architecture supporting large, distributed networks
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small to mid-sized organizations
- Initial setup and configuration may require networking expertise
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing comprehensive network topology mapping and performance monitoring in complex environments.
Pricing
Starts at approximately $1,995 for 100 devices; perpetual licenses with annual maintenance, scales per device monitored—enterprise quotes recommended.
Intermapper
enterpriseDelivers real-time, color-coded network maps with automatic discovery and alerts.
Dynamic auto-updating maps that visually represent device connectivity, bandwidth usage, and status changes in real-time
Intermapper, from SolarWinds, is a network monitoring and mapping tool that automatically discovers devices and generates dynamic, real-time topology maps using SNMP, ICMP, and other protocols. It visualizes network layouts with customizable icons, color-coded status indicators, and link utilization metrics, enabling quick identification of issues. The software supports polling, alerting, and basic performance monitoring, making it suitable for ongoing network oversight.
Pros
- Automatic discovery and real-time mapping of Layer 2/3 topologies
- Highly customizable maps with intuitive drag-and-drop editing
- Integrated alerting and historical reporting for proactive management
Cons
- Licensing model scales expensively with network size and maps
- User interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited advanced analytics or AI-driven insights
Best For
Mid-sized IT teams needing simple, visual network topology mapping without extensive configuration.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$700 for small networks (25 elements), with pricing scaling per map/element; annual maintenance ~20%; subscription options available.
LogicMonitor
enterpriseSaaS observability platform featuring dynamic network topology mapping and insights.
Dynamic, auto-discovered topology maps with dependency correlation and drill-down analytics
LogicMonitor is a SaaS-based IT observability platform that delivers comprehensive monitoring for hybrid environments, including automated network discovery and dynamic topology mapping. It visualizes device relationships, dependencies, and performance metrics across layer 2/3 networks, enabling proactive issue resolution. The tool integrates AIOps for root cause analysis and alerting, making it suitable for complex IT infrastructures beyond just topology visualization.
Pros
- Automated network discovery and real-time topology updates
- Deep integration with performance monitoring and alerting
- Scalable for hybrid cloud and on-prem environments
Cons
- Topology features are secondary to broader monitoring capabilities
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Higher pricing for smaller deployments
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking an all-in-one observability platform with robust network topology visualization.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at ~$19/device/month (minimum 25 devices), scales with collectors and usage; custom enterprise quotes.
Microsoft Visio
enterpriseProfessional diagramming tool with extensive stencils for designing network topologies.
Certified stencil libraries from vendors like Cisco and AWS for precise, industry-standard network visualizations
Microsoft Visio is a powerful diagramming application renowned for creating detailed network topology diagrams using an extensive library of stencils for Cisco, AWS, Azure, and other vendors. It supports drag-and-drop design, data linking from Excel or databases for dynamic updates, and validation rules to ensure diagram accuracy. While versatile for general diagramming, its network-specific templates make it suitable for visualizing complex IT infrastructures.
Pros
- Vast library of certified network stencils and shapes for accurate topology mapping
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 tools like Excel and Teams for collaboration
- Advanced automation features like data linking and shape validation for professional diagrams
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users due to complex interface
- Full features require desktop app; web version is limited
- Subscription pricing adds up for small teams or individuals
Best For
Enterprise IT architects and Microsoft 365 users needing highly customizable, standards-compliant network diagrams.
Pricing
Visio Plan 1 at $5/user/month (web-only); Plan 2 at $15/user/month (desktop + web); perpetual license ~$600.
Lucidchart
creative_suiteCollaborative online diagramming software for creating and sharing network topology maps.
Real-time collaborative editing with live cursors and comments directly on network diagrams
Lucidchart is a cloud-based diagramming platform that allows users to create professional network topology diagrams using drag-and-drop interfaces and extensive libraries of network hardware icons like routers, switches, and firewalls. It supports layers, grouping, and conditional formatting for complex visualizations, with real-time collaboration features for team editing. The tool integrates with tools like Google Workspace and Microsoft Office, and allows Visio import/export for seamless workflows.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface with auto-alignment
- Rich library of customizable network symbols and templates
- Real-time multiplayer collaboration and version history
Cons
- Lacks automated network discovery or live monitoring
- Advanced automation and data linking require paid plans
- Can slow down with very large, complex diagrams
Best For
Teams and IT professionals needing collaborative diagramming for network documentation alongside flowcharts and org charts.
Pricing
Free basic plan; Individual $7.95/user/month; Team $9/user/month (billed annually).
Conclusion
The top network topology tools reviewed showcase diverse strengths, with SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper emerging as the clear leader, excelling in automatic device discovery and detailed multi-level diagrams. NetBrain impresses with dynamic, interactive mapping for complex enterprise environments, and Auvik stands out for real-time cloud-based monitoring. Each tool caters to unique needs, making the top three strong choices for different network setups.
Experience seamless network visibility—begin using SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper today to explore its robust discovery and visualization capabilities.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
