Understanding your network is critical for network design and troubleshooting. However, understanding a mid-sized to large network is not easy since today’s networks are dynamic, involve multiple media types, utilize multiple protocols, and are often interconnected to networks controlled by service providers. The convergence of voice and video into data networks has also added to the complexity and made networks harder to understand.

As network complexity increases, network engineers’ need for up-to-date network data increases as well. However, network engineers still rely on manually drawn network diagrams, which usually are out of date. Like navigating a dark cave without light, network engineers are forced to rely on their instincts and experience to manage their network. Therefore, it is not surprising that one third of network problems are caused by human errors. Considering that the cost of downtime for mission-critical systems can range from $25,000 to $2.5 million per hour, a solution is needed to help network engineers visualize and understand their network from top to bottom.