10 Best Network Mapping Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Keeping track of your network can be a real headache. As a tech expert, you know how important it is to have a clear view of your network's layout and performance. That's where network mapping tools come in. They offer a way to visualize and manage your network's components, easing the burden on you and your team.
I've spent hours testing and reviewing various software solutions, and I aim to offer an unbiased, well-researched review of the top network mapping tools. In this article, I'll share my insights and help you find the right tool for your needs. Let's dive into the best options and see how they can make your life easier.
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Best Network Mapping Tools Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top network mapping tools selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | NetCrunch NetCrunch offers SNMP monitoring, real-time alerts, and an intuitive interface. | Best for SNMP monitoring | 30-day free trial | From $2,550/year | Website |
2 | Fortra (Intermapper) Fortra Intermapper offers live maps, real-time updates, and customizable alerts. | Best for real-time mapping | 30-day free trial | From $302/year | Website |
3 | Domotz Domotz enables remote monitoring, alerts, power control, and network mapping. | Best for remote monitoring | 14-day free trial | From $24.98/month/site | Website |
4 | PRTG Network Monitor PRTG offers real-time monitoring, custom alerts, and wide sensor support. | Best for customizable alerts | Free trial available | From $2,149/year | Website |
5 | RevealX ExtraHop RevealX detects threats with real-time alerts and traffic analysis. | Best for threat detection | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
6 | LANTopoLog LANTopoLog auto-discovers and maps devices with SNMP support and an easy interface. | Best for topology discovery | Free plan available | From $100 one-time payment | Website |
7 | Obkio Obkio offers real-time network monitoring, alerts, and historical analysis. | Best for network performance | 14-day free trial | From $9/month | Website |
8 | NMap Nmap excels in security auditing with fast scans, OS detection, and versatility. | Best for security auditing | Open-source | Available for free | Website |
9 | MikroTik (The Dude) MikroTik (The Dude) offers auto-discovery, custom maps, and protocol monitoring. | Best for small networks | Not available | Free plan available | Website |
10 | Network Glue ITGlue Network Glue automates discovery, documentation, and IT management. | Best for MSPs | Free demo available | From $29/user/month | Website |
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Deel
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
New Relic
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.3 -
Checkmk
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7
Best Network Mapping Tool Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of my shortlist’s best network mapping tools. My reviews thoroughly examine the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
NetCrunch is a network monitoring solution for IT teams requiring efficient SNMP monitoring capabilities. It helps manage network performance, detect issues, and ensure system reliability.
Why I picked NetCrunch: NetCrunch excels in SNMP monitoring by providing comprehensive insights into network performance. It supports various SNMP devices, making it versatile for different network setups. The tool includes real-time alerts, helping you address issues promptly. Its intuitive interface simplifies the monitoring process, allowing your team to focus on critical tasks.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards that clearly overview your network’s health. The tool offers automatic network discovery, which helps you map your network effortlessly. It also provides detailed performance reports, allowing you to analyze network trends and optimize operations.
Integrations include Microsoft Active Directory, VMware, Hyper-V, AWS, Azure, Cisco, SNMP, Syslog, NetFlow, and WMI.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Interactive network visualization tools
- Customizable alerting and notifications
- Agentless monitoring for easy setup
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Requires dedicated hardware resources
Fortra (Intermapper) is a network monitoring and mapping tool designed for IT teams who need real-time visibility into their network's performance and status. It helps identify network issues quickly and maintains optimal network operations.
Why I picked Fortra (Intermapper): Intermapper provides real-time network mapping, allowing you to see the status of your network at a glance. It offers live maps that update automatically to reflect changes, helping you stay informed. The tool includes customizable alerts that notify you of network issues as they occur. Additionally, its ability to monitor various devices makes it suitable for diverse network environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include live network maps that visually represent your network's status. The tool offers customizable alerts, immediately informing you of network issues. It also supports various network devices, from routers to switches, enhancing its adaptability.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, ServiceNow, Splunk, Grafana, SolarWinds, Nagios, Cisco, Meraki, and Amazon Web Services.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable dashboards and reports
- Automated network performance alerts
- Real-time network visualization tools
Cons:
- Limited mobile app functionality
- Interface can feel slightly outdated
Domotz is a network monitoring tool designed for IT professionals and managed service providers who need to oversee networks from afar. It offers remote monitoring capabilities, helping users maintain network health and performance.
Why I picked Domotz: Domotz is tailored for remote monitoring, offering features like automated network mapping and real-time alerts. It provides a centralized dashboard informing you of network status and issues. The tool supports remote power management, allowing you to reboot devices without being onsite. Additionally, it offers detailed reporting, making it easier to analyze and optimize network performance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time alerts that notify you of network issues promptly. The tool offers remote access to devices, allowing you to manage networks without being physically present. It also provides detailed reports, which help you assess network performance over time.
Integrations include Slack, Splunk, Microsoft Teams, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Freshdesk, Zendesk, ServiceNow, ConnectWise, and Autotask.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated alerts for network issues
- Remote network monitoring capability
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface
Cons:
- Can generate excessive alert noise
- Requires agent installation on devices
PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler is a comprehensive network monitoring tool aimed at IT administrators overseeing complex network environments. It helps monitor network performance, detect issues, and ensure optimal network operations.
Why I picked PRTG Network Monitor: PRTG from Paessler offers highly customizable alerts, allowing you to set specific thresholds that matter to your team. It provides real-time monitoring, helping you catch issues before they escalate. The tool supports various sensors, making it adaptable to various network setups. Its intuitive interface simplifies monitoring, letting you focus on critical tasks.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an intuitive map designer that lets you visualize your network layout. The tool offers in-depth reporting to help you analyze network performance over time. It also supports distributed monitoring, which is ideal for large network environments.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Cisco, VMware, NetApp, Dell EMC, Google Cloud, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable alerting and triggers
- Supports both agentless monitoring
- Intuitive web-based user interface
Cons:
- Can be resource-intensive at scale
- Licensing based on sensor count
RevealX is a network detection and response tool designed for security teams that must identify and address threats quickly. It monitors network traffic to provide insights into potential security risks and helps maintain network integrity.
Why I picked RevealX: RevealX excels in threat detection by analyzing network traffic for anomalies and suspicious activities. It provides real-time threat alerts, ensuring your team can respond promptly. The tool features an intuitive interface that simplifies the process of threat analysis. It also supports integration with existing security systems, enhancing its effectiveness in diverse environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time threat alerts that keep your team informed of potential risks. The tool provides detailed traffic analysis, helping you identify patterns and anomalies. It also offers customizable dashboards, allowing you to tailor the interface to your needs.
Integrations include Splunk, ServiceNow, IBM QRadar, Palo Alto Networks, Cisco, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, CrowdStrike, and Carbon Black.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalable for enterprise use
- Real-time network traffic analysis
- AI-driven threat detection system
Cons:
- No built-in endpoint protection features
- High resource consumption on servers
LANTopoLog is a network topology discovery tool aimed at network administrators who need to visualize and manage their network infrastructure. It helps identify and map network devices, making it easier to manage network layouts.
Why I picked LANTopoLog: LANTopoLog excels in topology discovery by automatically detecting and mapping network devices. It provides detailed information about connected devices like IP and MAC addresses. This tool supports SNMP, enhancing its ability to gather network data effectively. It also offers a simple interface, making it accessible to those who require straightforward network visualization.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automatic detection of network devices, which simplifies network management. It provides detailed device information to help you understand your network better. The tool also supports SNMP, which makes data collection more efficient.
Integrations include Microsoft Visio, Cisco, Juniper, HP, Dell, IBM, Nortel, Avaya, Alcatel, and 3Com.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Minimal system resource consumption
- Automatic network topology mapping
- Simple and lightweight application
Cons:
- Few customization options available
- Lacks advanced security features
Obkio is a network performance monitoring tool designed for IT professionals and administrators who must closely monitor network health and performance. It helps identify and resolve network issues to ensure optimal operation.
Why I picked Obkio: Obkio focuses on network performance and offers features like continuous monitoring and real-time alerts. It provides a user-friendly dashboard that displays network metrics. The tool supports on-premise and cloud monitoring, making it versatile for various environments. It also includes historical data analysis, which helps you identify and address recurring network issues.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include continuous monitoring, which ensures you're always aware of your network's status. The tool offers real-time alerts to notify you of any performance issues. Additionally, it provides historical data analysis to help you track and understand network trends over time.
Integrations include Slack, PagerDuty, Microsoft Teams, ServiceNow, Datadog, Zabbix, Cisco, Meraki, Fortinet, and Ubiquiti.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy deployment with cloud options
- Real-time network performance metrics
- Continuous end-to-end network testing
Cons:
- Requires agents for full monitoring
- Limited historical data retention
Nmap is a free and open-source tool designed for network discovery and security auditing, primarily used by system and network administrators. It helps manage network inventory service upgrades and monitor host uptime.
Why I picked Nmap: Nmap excels in security auditing by using raw IP packets to identify hosts, services, operating systems, and firewall types on a network. It scans large networks and is also effective for single hosts. Key features include a command-line interface and a GUI (Zenmap), supporting advanced network mapping techniques. It's compatible with major operating systems like Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X, adding to its versatility.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include network inventory capabilities, service upgrade management, and host uptime monitoring. It also offers tools like Ncat for data transfer, Ndiff for comparing scan results and Nping for packet analysis. The software is user-friendly and well-documented, backed by a strong community.
Integrations include Metasploit, Nessus, Wireshark, Snort, Security Onion, Splunk, OpenVAS, AlienVault, Tenable, and Nagios.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Multi-platform compatibility
- Strong community support
Cons:
- Resource-intensive on large networks
- Potential legal concerns if misused
MikroTik (The Dude) is a network monitoring application for small network environments. It's used primarily by network administrators to manage and monitor devices within their networks efficiently.
Why I picked MikroTik (The Dude): This tool is ideal for small networks, offering features like automatic network discovery and layout. It supports multiple monitoring protocols like SNMP, ICMP, DNS, and TCP, which are crucial for effective network management. Users can create custom maps and add devices, enhancing their ability to visualize network layouts. The tool also provides link usage monitoring and alerts, making it well-suited for small network setups.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include auto network discovery, which simplifies device management. It offers device and link monitoring with notifications to inform you of network issues. You can also customize your network maps with your own devices and backgrounds.
Integrations include Metasploit, Nessus, Wireshark, Snort, Security Onion, Splunk, OpenVAS, AlienVault, Tenable, and Nagios.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Custom alerts for network issues
- Supports SNMP for detailed insights
- Automated network discovery tools
Cons:
- Interface may feel outdated
- Windows-only application support
Network Glue is a network documentation tool aimed at managed service providers (MSPs) who must maintain organized and accessible network documentation. It helps automate network discovery and documentation, making it easier for MSPs to manage their clients' IT environments.
Why I picked Network Glue: This tool is tailored for MSPs, with features like automated network discovery and documentation. It provides detailed network diagrams and data that assist in efficient IT management. The ability to integrate with existing IT documentation makes it a valuable asset for MSPs. It's designed to streamline operations and reduce the time spent on manual network mapping tasks.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated network discovery, which simplifies the documentation process. It provides detailed network diagrams to help you visualize your client's IT environment. The tool also offers customizable documentation templates to fit your specific needs.
Integrations include ConnectWise, Autotask, Kaseya, SolarWinds, Continuum, Microsoft Azure, Office 365, QuickBooks, Slack, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated network discovery tools
- Strong access control features
- Centralized IT documentation system
Cons:
- Some features feel slightly outdated
- Requires consistent data updates
Other Network Mapping Tools
Here are some additional network mapping tools options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist but are still worth checking out.
- Checkmk
For hybrid IT environments
- Auvik
For automated mapping
- Nagios
For customizable monitoring solutions
- Zabbix
For open-source flexibility
- SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor
For scalable network management
- Site24x7
For cloud-based monitoring
- Icinga
For data visualization
- Atera
For IT automation
- ManageEngine (OpManager)
For multi-vendor network monitoring
Network Mapping Tool Selection Criteria
When selecting the best network mapping software for this list, I considered everyday buyer needs and pain points, such as network visibility and real-time monitoring. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair.
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these everyday use cases:
- Network discovery
- Topology mapping
- Performance monitoring
- Alert notifications
- Device management
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Automated mapping updates
- Customizable dashboards
- Integration with cloud services
- Advanced security features
- Scalability for large networks
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy navigation
- Customization options
- Learning curve
- Aesthetic design
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Migration support
- Access to webinars
- Onboarding templates
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Response time
- Support channels (chat, email, phone)
- Availability of a knowledge base
- Quality of support resources
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Pricing transparency
- Features offered vs. price
- Competitor pricing comparison
- Availability of free trials
- Long-term cost benefits
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction score
- Commonly mentioned pros and cons
- Frequency of updates
- Customer feedback on support
- Ease of implementation
How to Choose Network Mapping Tools
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. Here's a checklist of factors to remember to help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process.
Factor | What to Consider |
Scalability | Ensure the network topology mapper can grow with your network. Look for options that handle increased data traffic and devices without compromising performance and creating bottlenecks. |
Integrations | Check if it integrates with existing systems like cloud services, security platforms, or other IT management tools to enhance its functionality. |
Customizability | Consider tools that let you tailor dashboards and reports to fit your specific needs, making it easier for your team to interpret data. |
Ease of Use | Look for intuitive interfaces and easy navigation. Your team should quickly adapt to using the tool without extensive training. |
Budget | Align the tool’s cost with your budget. Evaluate the features offered at each pricing tier to ensure you're getting value for your money. |
Security Safeguards | Verify that the tool includes features to protect sensitive network data, such as encryption and access controls. |
Support Services | Consider the availability and quality of customer support, including response times and support channels. |
Performance Monitoring | Ensure the tool offers real-time monitoring to identify and resolve network issues quickly. |
Trends in Network Mapping Tools
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different network mapping tool vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on.
- AI-Driven Analytics: AI analyzes network data more efficiently, providing insights that help predict and prevent network issues. Vendors like ExtraHop are incorporating AI to enhance threat detection capabilities.
- IoT Device Management: As IoT devices proliferate, network mapping tools are evolving to manage and monitor these devices effectively. This trend is crucial for businesses that rely heavily on IoT technology.
- Cloud-Native Solutions: More tools are designed specifically for cloud environments, offering better integration and performance for cloud-based networks. This is especially useful for businesses migrating to cloud infrastructures.
- User Experience Enhancements: Vendors focus on improving the user interface to make complex network data more accessible. This includes intuitive dashboards and better visualization tools, helping users make informed decisions quickly.
- Security Integration: Network mapping tools increasingly integrate security features to provide a more comprehensive approach to network management. This trend addresses the growing need for security due to increasing cyber threats.
What Are Network Mapping Tools?
Network mapping tools are software solutions that visualize and manage a network's layout and performance. IT professionals and network administrators use them to ensure network health and efficiency.
Real-time monitoring, automated mapping, and threat detection features help identify issues, manage devices, and maintain security. These tools provide essential insights for efficient network management and problem resolution.
Features of Network Mapping Tools
When selecting network mapping tools, look for the following key features.
- Automated mapping: Automatically discovers and maps your network, saving time and ensuring up-to-date network layouts.
- Real-time monitoring: Provides continuous updates on network performance, helping you quickly identify and address issues.
- Alert notifications: Sends alerts for network anomalies, allowing for prompt responses to potential problems.
- Customizable dashboards: Lets you tailor the interface to display the information most relevant to your needs, improving usability.
- IoT device management: Monitors and manages IoT devices within your network, supporting the growing trend of IoT integration.
- AI-driven analytics: Uses AI to analyze network data, providing insights to predict and prevent issues.
- Security integration: Incorporates security features to protect network data and enhance overall network management.
- Cloud-native solutions: Designed to work seamlessly with cloud environments, offering better integration for cloud-based networks.
- Topology visualization: Provides a clear, interactive visual representation of network connections and device relationships, improving troubleshooting and management.
- Multi-vendor compatibility: Supports a wide range of network hardware and software vendors, ensuring flexibility across different environments.
- SNMP support: Utilizes Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) to collect real-time data from network devices, improving monitoring accuracy.
- Historical network analysis: Stores historical network data, enabling performance trend analysis and issue diagnosis over time.
- Layer 2 and Layer 3 mapping: Offers visibility into both physical (Layer 2) and logical (Layer 3) network connections, allowing deeper network insights.
- Bandwidth monitoring: Tracks network scanning traffic and bandwidth usage to help optimize performance and prevent congestion.
- Device discovery and classification: Identifies all connected devices and categorizes them based on type, role, and function within the network nodes.
- Automated reporting: Generates detailed reports on network performance, security events, and device status, aiding compliance and operational oversight.
- API integration: Provides APIs for seamless connectivity with other IT management tools, allowing for automated workflows and extended functionality.
- Remote network access: Enables administrators to monitor and manage network topology from anywhere, improving operational efficiency.
- Network segmentation visualization: Helps visualize and enforce segmentation policies, improving security and providing powerful network performance.
- Role-based access control (RBAC): Restricts network access based on user roles, ensuring only authorized personnel can modify network configurations.
- Virtual network mapping: Extends mapping capabilities to virtualized environments, providing insight into cloud-based and virtual machine structures over the entire network.
- Compliance monitoring: Ensures adherence to industry regulations and internal security policies by tracking configuration changes and potential vulnerabilities.
- Integration with ITSM platforms: Connects with IT service management (ITSM) systems for enhanced ticketing, troubleshooting, and incident management.
Benefits of Network Mapping Tools
Implementing network mapping tools provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to.
- Improved network visibility: Automated mapping and real-time monitoring provide a clear view of your network, making management more effortless.
- Faster issue resolution: Alert notifications and real-time data help your team quickly identify and fix network problems.
- Enhanced security: Security integration features protect your network from threats and vulnerabilities.
- Better resource allocation: AI-driven analytics offer insights into network performance, helping you optimize resource use.
- Streamlined device management: IoT device management supports the organization and control of connected devices within your network.
- Adaptability to growth: Scalability features ensure your network can expand without compromising performance.
- Custom user experience: Customizable dashboards allow you to tailor the tool to your needs, improving overall usability.
Costs & Pricing of Network Mapping Tools
Selecting network mapping tools requires understanding the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes standard plans, average prices, and typical features in network mapping tool solutions.
Plan Comparison Table for Network Mapping Tools
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0 | Basic network discovery, limited device support, and community support. |
Personal Plan | $5-$25/ user/month | Network discovery, basic alerts, real-time monitoring, and basic reporting. |
Business Plan | $30-$75/ user/month | Automated mapping, customizable dashboards, IoT device management, and enhanced security features. |
Enterprise Plan | $80-$150/ user/month | Full feature access, AI-driven analytics, advanced security integration, and priority support. |
Network Mapping Tools FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about network mapping tools.
What protocol do network mapping tools use?
Network mapping solutions typically use the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) to discover and map network objects automatically. SNMP allows you to manage devices on IP networks by exposing technical data as variables on managed systems. This protocol is crucial for gathering information and maintaining network health.
What is the purpose of network mapping tools?
The primary purpose of network mapping tools is to provide network administrators with insights into device status, physical connections, and traffic metrics. This information helps troubleshoot issues quickly and maximize uptime, ensuring the network runs smoothly and efficiently.
How do network mapping tools help with security?
Network mapping tools enhance security by identifying unauthorized devices and unusual traffic patterns. They provide visibility into the network, enabling you to detect potential threats early. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining robust network security.
Are cloud-based network mapping tools better?
Cloud-based network mapping tools offer advantages, including easy scalability and remote access. They integrate well with other cloud services, providing a seamless experience for businesses adopting cloud solutions. However, the best choice depends on your specific network needs and infrastructure.
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