When I started experimenting with network documentation tools during recent tests at eWEEK Labs, I looked at Computer Systems Odessas ConceptDraw V and several other options.
Like Microsofts Visio and SmartDraw.coms namesake tool, ConceptDraw V made it easy to accurately document my network. But ConceptDraw V, which lists for $299, has a rich palette of design elements that were easier to incorporate into network documents than either of those competitors.
My fellow Labs analyst, Jason Brooks, has pointed out several open-source design document tools worth checking, including Dia.
For automated network mapping of small and midsize networks, check out Neon Softwares LANsurveyor. Ive used LANsurveyor for years, and although it provides useful network monitoring, its layout tools cant compare with those Ive seen in pure network documentation packages.
ConceptDraw can be downloaded at www.conceptdraw.com/en/products/cd5/main.php.
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