Are you still struggling with managing and optimising your network infrastructure?
Well you’re not alone in this. Many are. And what best can help you is – Network device discovery tools.
Network Device Discovery tools automate network scans, identify connected devices, and provide insights into their configurations and capabilities. But again there are so many options available. In this guide, we will walk you through 5+ best network device discovery tools. From features to what to consider, you will be able to pick the right one:
Why Network Device Discovery is Important?
We know, networks are getting more complex every second. The more the devices are adding up, the more difficult it gets to manage it all. Starting from traditional computers and servers to smartphones and IoT devices, there are a lot of variations. And here’s where Network device discovery tools play the ace card.
Frim identifying, and cataloguing, to monitoring devices, these tools do it all. And all of this makes the job of IT administrators a lot easier. They get a clear, real-time view of their network. That’s why they are able to manage better whilst taking the best care of the performance.
Top Network Device Discovery Tools
1. Spiceworks Network Inventory
User-friendly interface, automatic device discovery, detailed device information, custom reports.
Pros:
Asset management
Free to use
Preferred by smaller IT teams.
Cons:
Basic functionality may not suffice for complex networks.
2. SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper
Comes with advanced network mapping and visualisation, automatic discovery, detailed interconnections and dependencies.
Pros:
Ideal for larger, complex networks
Best visualisation capabilities.
Cons:
Commercial solution with a higher cost.
3. ManageEngine OpUtils
Can scan multiple subnets, detailed device information, custom network maps, part of a broader suite of network management tools.
Pros:
Centralised platform for various network-related tasks
Best tool for network monitoring and troubleshooting.
Cons:
Primarily an on-premises solution.
4. Lansweeper
The best comprehensive asset management tool. Can identify a wide range of devices. Also comes with software licence management and remote deployment capabilities.
Pros:
Asset management feature
Cloud-based deployment option.
Cons:
Focused on asset management rather than network monitoring.
5. Nmap (Network Mapper)
Features available here are – Open-source network discovery, port detection, vulnerability identification, network scanning.
Pros:
Powerful and flexible
Excellent for network reconnaissance and security auditing.
Cons:
Steeper learning curve
Requires technical expertise.
6. Zabbix
It comes with open-source network monitoring and management, automatic device discovery, real-time monitoring, alerting, reporting.
Pros:
Broad range of features
User-friendly interface
Suitable for enterprise-level network management.
Cons:
May require significant configuration for optimal use.
7. PRTG Network Monitor
The last tool in the list, that comes with Network monitoring, automatic device detection, real-time insights, custom dashboards features.
Pros:
Advanced monitoring capabilities
Commercial solution with various pricing options.
Cons:
Higher cost compared to free tools.
Quick Comparison of Network Device Discovery Tools
Above was just a list of the best 7 network discovery tools you can find out there. But the main struggle lies in picking one out of these many options. To make this process easier for you, here’s a quick comparison chart:
Spiceworks Network Inventory vs. SolarWinds Network Topology Mapper
Spiceworks gives a major focus to assets management. It’s great for inventory tracking. It comes with a user-friendly interface and is free, making it ideal for smaller IT teams.
On the other hand, SolarWinds excels in network mapping and visualisation. The tools offer advanced features suited for larger, complex networks. Remember it is a commercial solution, so you get many pricing options to choose from.
Manage Engine OpUtils vs. Lansweeper
ManageEngine OpUtils, again part of a broader suite of network management tools, offers centralised network monitoring and troubleshooting. It is basically an onpremises solution.
But coming to Lansweeper, this one focuses on asset management. It comes with extensive features like software licence management and remote deployment capabilities. Over here you also get a cloud-based deployment option.
Nmap vs. Zabbix
Nmap is the most popular open-source tool. It majorly focuses on network reconnaissance and vulnerability identification. It is powerful and flexible but requires technical expertise.
Zabbix is a network monitoring and management platform with a user-friendly interface. It offers real-time monitoring, alerting, and reporting. This one is best suited for enterprise-level management.
What to consider when choosing a network device discovery tool?
Now that you have explored the options, next comes the choosing part. Here’s what you should do while choosing correct network device discovery tool:
First match the tool’s capabilities with your network size and complexity. Because tools that are designed for small networks might not handle larger ones.
The tool you’re selecting should be compatible enough to identify various devices, including legacy systems and IoT devices.
Always prefer tools with intuitive interfaces and easy deployment. The learning curve should be less.
Reports are a must have. If the tool comes with reporting and visualisation features – you can get the best insights.
Always choose tools that integrate well with other IT systems. If it comes with automation features, it’s quite a win-win. Since you will save time, and there will be less risk of any human error happening. L
Lastly, consider the tool’s pricing model. Understand its long-term financial impact. The features you are going for, should justify the cost and fit within your budget.
That’s it. If you are able to take care of the above pointers, you can easily select your network discovery tool from the crowd. However, make sure to monitor and scan regularly. Make the best out of the automation features available on your plate. Train your team. If possible, implement strong access controls, and you’re all set to make the mark!
