7 Best FREE Network Diagram Software (2025)

Network Diagram Software tools define networks graphically. These detailed network diagrams help users illustrate the relationship between different network components, devices, and nodes. Using these software tools, users can document and design different networking patterns.

Research carefully before selecting a tool since an unstable network diagramming software solution may not serve the purpose effectively. There can be limitations in functionality, incompatibility issues, customizations, and security concerns. Keep in mind these are not the only areas of concern. A bad tool may lack the presence of relevant technical support to address queries. Henceforth, it is important to install good network diagram maker.

After spending over 100 hours analyzing 40+ Network Diagram tools, I curated this carefully verified selection of free and paid options. Each has been tested thoroughly to provide a credible and well-researched foundation for network planning. One platform once helped me map an enterprise system with surprising clarity. This is a must-see guide with insightful, honest commentary, exclusive features, and a transparent breakdown of pros and cons with up-to-date recommendations. Read more…

Best Network Diagram Software (Free & Open-source)

Tool Name	Supported Platforms	Key Features	Free Trial	Link
👍 Miro	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS	• Advanced facilitation tools • AI-generated Mindmaps	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More
👍 Visme	Windows, Mac	• Intuitive drag-and-drop functionality • Customizable canvas size	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More
EdrawMax	Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux	• Floor plan design • Foundational system development	7-Days	Learn More
ManageEngine OpManager	Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android	• Network Performance Monitoring • Automated Workflows and Alerts	30-Days	Learn More
Creately	Android, Windows, and iOS	• Many exporting options, including PDF & SVG • Data security with regional data storage	Lifetime Free Basic Plan	Learn More

1) Miro

Miro is a powerful tool that I reviewed while writing this guide on free network diagram software. I was able to collaborate in real-time with teammates and map out technical workflows without hassle. It is important to note how smoothly Miro helps you visualize processes. I particularly liked its drag-and-drop features which made building diagrams quick. If you are starting out or managing a remote team, Miro is one of the easiest ways to get your network diagrams ready.

Features:

• AI Diagram Generation: Miro’s AI diagramming tool impressed me with how quickly it transformed a simple prompt into a structured network diagram. It recognizes complex relationships and turns them into clean visuals in seconds. While testing this feature, one thing I noticed is that using more specific prompts produces far better layouts and fewer corrections. This feature is a huge time-saver for IT architects and network planners who want to skip repetitive structuring tasks.
• Extensive Shape Libraries: Miro offers a wide variety of over 2,500 diagramming shapes that cover AWS, Azure, Kubernetes, and more. It’s perfect when you’re building mixed-cloud or hybrid architecture. I used these libraries during a client presentation to accurately reflect their infrastructure—everything was intuitive and fast to deploy. I suggest favoriting commonly used shapes in your toolbar for quicker access across projects.
• Cisco Shape Pack: The Cisco shape pack includes well-designed, standardized Cisco icons that make technical diagrams immediately understandable to network engineers. I relied on this while preparing topology maps for a data center migration, and the clarity it added was significant. There is also an option that lets you layer these icons with custom labels, which helps highlight key routes or failover paths clearly.
• Infinite Canvas: Miro’s infinite canvas gives you unrestricted space to map complex networks and subnets without switching tools or cramming visuals. When I was working on a global infrastructure model for a distributed team, having this visual sprawl was essential. It felt like a whiteboard that never ran out of space. You will notice that zooming and panning stay responsive, even on dense diagrams, which keeps the experience fluid.
• Real-Time Collaboration: This feature lets teams build, comment on, and revise diagrams together in real time. It significantly reduces the back-and-forth of traditional feedback loops. I have used it during live IT workshops where stakeholders could jump in to suggest changes on the fly. It fosters a stronger sense of shared ownership and accelerates alignment.
• Compliance-Ready Features: Miro supports secure sharing and data protection, making it suitable for enterprise environments with strict privacy protocols. You can invite collaborators with permission levels that protect sensitive parts of your network diagram. I have worked with teams in healthcare IT, and this compliance support made Miro an easy choice over tools like Lucidchart that require paid tiers for similar features.

👉 How to Get Miro for Free?

• Navigate to Miro‘s website.
• Click the “Sign Up Free” button to join and enjoy unlimited access to the free basic plan without any time limit.

Visit Miro >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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2) Visme

Visme is a solid choice that I tested when preparing content on the best free network diagram software. I particularly appreciate how it allows you to combine data visualization with attractive design templates. It is important to pay attention to how quickly diagrams can be created and shared. I found that great for team collaboration. Freelancers create client-facing visual reports in Visme to showcase proposed system layouts with clarity and style.

Features:

• Drag-and-Drop Editor: Visme’s drag-and-drop editor makes designing network diagrams feel intuitive, even for beginners. I have used it during live client sessions where real-time adjustments were needed, and the smoothness of the interface helped keep the meeting productive. While using this feature, one thing I noticed is that grouping commonly used elements into folders can really streamline the process for repeat projects. This functionality stands out over more rigid tools like Draw.io.
• Customizable Templates: Visme offers professionally designed network templates that are fully customizable. These save time, especially when starting from scratch isn’t ideal. I have tweaked templates for different industries—telecom, healthcare, SaaS—and found the flexibility helpful. I suggest cloning a master template for each department or client to keep formatting consistent across all deliverables.
• Interactive Elements: You can add hover effects, clickable links, and pop-ups to make network diagrams more engaging and informative. I used this in a project where each device icon was linked to a real-time dashboard, which was incredibly helpful for IT managers. This feature adds a layer of interactivity that static diagrams simply can’t match.
• Data Visualization Tools: Visme lets you embed charts, graphs, and widgets directly into your network diagrams. This is ideal for presenting performance metrics alongside infrastructure layouts. I have integrated bandwidth data into a diagram to illustrate usage by node, and the visual impact was impressive. The tool lets you sync these visuals with updated datasets, which saves time on manual edits.
• Brand Kit Integration: Visme’s brand kit ensures that every diagram reflects your organization’s visual identity. You can lock in fonts, colors, and logos, which is especially useful for client-facing reports. I used this while working with a Fortune 500 company, and the ability to apply branding with one click elevated the professionalism of the outputs.
• Cloud-Based Access: Being cloud-based, Visme lets you access and edit your network diagrams from anywhere. This has been especially useful during remote team workshops where quick edits needed to be made live. I remember collaborating with a partner in a different time zone, and we were able to co-edit without missing a beat. The syncing was fast and reliable.

👉 How to Get Visme for Free?

• Visit Visme’s official website.
• Simply select the “Sign Up Free” button to activate your account and begin using Visme’s free version with no expiration date.

Visit Visme >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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3) EdrawMax

EdrawMax helped me create clean and professional-looking network diagrams effortlessly. I particularly liked how customizable the fonts and shapes are, which adds a personal touch to my visuals. It is the perfect network planning software solution for those who want a streamlined experience. My advice is to take advantage of its file backup feature—it keeps your projects safe at every step. Businesses looking to reduce IT documentation time find this tool to be a top-rated asset.

Features:

• Visio Compatibility: EdrawMax supports both import and export of Visio files (VSD, VSDX), which is essential for teams migrating from Microsoft’s ecosystem. I used this when collaborating with an enterprise client that had legacy diagrams in Visio. The transition was smooth, and no formatting was lost. I recommend double-checking symbol libraries post-import to ensure icon consistency when working across both platforms.
• Pre-Designed Templates: The tool provides a solid collection of pre-built templates designed for common network architectures. These templates are highly customizable, saving valuable time on setup. I have found them especially useful when preparing infrastructure models for client proposals. While testing this feature, one thing I noticed is that labeling your templates by use case—like LAN, WAN, or hybrid—helps you find them faster later.
• Cloud Integration: EdrawMax integrates with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, letting you save and access diagrams from anywhere. This is ideal for remote teams or consultants like me who switch devices often. I once finalized a campus network layout on a tablet during a flight and synced it seamlessly with the desktop version later.
• Customizable Themes: You can change colors, fonts, and line styles easily using the theme tool, making your network diagrams not only functional but visually professional. I used this when preparing documentation for stakeholders who preferred clean, branded visuals. It added polish without taking extra time.
• Infinitive Canvas: EdrawMax offers an unlimited workspace, which is great for visualizing complex or multi-site networks without running out of room. I worked on a telecom backbone diagram that spanned multiple data centers, and the ability to zoom and scroll without constraints made planning far easier. The tool lets you anchor key components on gridlines, which keeps large diagrams structured as they grow.
• Smart Layouts: The automatic alignment and distribution features help keep your diagrams tidy. You can quickly snap elements into place and ensure everything stays visually balanced. I appreciated this when working with densely packed diagrams that would otherwise look cluttered. It eliminates the need to nudge icons manually into place.

👉 How to Get EdrawMax for Free?

• Go to the official EdrawMax website.
• Click the “Try It Free” option to immediately start downloading the software and enjoy full access without needing to pay anything.

Visit EdrawMax >>

7-Days Free Trial

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4) ManageEngine OpManager

ManageEngine OpManager made it possible for me to keep track of thousands of devices with minimal configuration. During my research, I noticed how well it supports multi-vendor environments and performance metrics. It is a top-rated network planning software solution that fits into any IT strategy. I advise paying attention to its latency and VoIP monitoring, especially for remote teams. It is important to consider this if you are scaling infrastructure.

Features:

• Automated Layer 2 Discovery: ManageEngine OpManager uses protocols like CDP, LLDP, and ARP to scan and map your Layer 2 network automatically. This provides a real-time topology view with accurate device relationships. While testing this feature, one thing I noticed is that enabling SNMP across your network improves discovery speed and accuracy significantly. It’s especially useful when onboarding new segments or devices.
• Business Views: You can group devices based on business services, such as CRM systems or email infrastructure. This simplifies monitoring and speeds up incident response. I once used this to isolate a bandwidth issue in a customer-facing app within minutes. I suggest naming each business view clearly and keeping it updated as services evolve to maintain clarity.
• Geographical Mapping: OpManager integrates with Google Maps and Zoho Maps to provide a location-based overview of your network devices. I used this during a global deployment to track routers and switches across three continents. It gave our team real-time visibility into regional operations and quick fault isolation.
• 3D Floor Views: With this feature, you get a three-dimensional visual of your server rooms organized by floor. It helped me during a datacenter audit to pinpoint hardware placement without physically tracing cables. The tool lets you drag and position devices on the floor plan, which makes visual alignment and documentation easier for on-site staff.
• 3D Rack Views: This feature creates virtual rack diagrams, showing device position and health at a glance. I have used it to validate asset allocation and track overheating issues in densely packed racks. It’s a practical upgrade from flat diagrams that miss spatial awareness. Every rack is fully interactive, saving time during diagnostics.
• Virtualization Mapping: OpManager maps entire virtual environments, including hosts and guest VMs for platforms like VMware and Hyper-V. I relied on this feature during a server consolidation project, and it visualized the VM-to-host relationships clearly. You will notice that hovering over a virtual machine instantly reveals resource usage, which speeds up capacity planning.

👉 How to Get ManageEngine OpManager for Free?

• Visit the official ManageEngine OpManager website.
• Click on the “Download” option to sign up and get full access to all features free for a 30-day trial period.

Visit OpManager >>

30-Days Free Trial

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5) Creately

Creately offered me a seamless way to work on structured visuals with others in real time. I was able to share diagrams instantly and get feedback without leaving the platform. As a network planning software solution, it is one of the most intuitive I have worked with. It is a good idea to use its collaboration tools when multiple team members contribute to the same project. Business analysts use Creately to visualize operations strategies. It helps them present ideas clearly during executive meetings and improve decision-making alignment.

Features:

• Data Linking: Creately lets you connect external data sources to your diagrams so elements can reflect real-time updates automatically. I used this to visualize server status from a Google Sheet linked to the diagram, which kept everything in sync without manual edits. I recommend setting conditional formatting on shapes to reflect key metrics, such as uptime or alerts, for instant visual cues. It adds dynamic value beyond just static diagrams.
• Version History: This feature tracks every change and lets you roll back to earlier versions when needed. It’s helpful during team collaboration where multiple edits may occur quickly. I have recovered a network map after a formatting issue thanks to this history log. While using this feature, one thing I noticed is that labeling major revisions clearly makes it much easier to navigate past iterations later.
• Smart Shapes: Creately includes context-aware shapes that adapt and auto-connect as you build the diagram. This dramatically speeds up workflow and reduces the chance of misaligned links. I found this especially handy when mapping VLANs across multiple switches. It took less than half the time compared to manual connectors in Lucidchart.
• Shape Libraries: You get access to a deep library of standardized network symbols, including routers, firewalls, and cloud elements. These icons meet industry norms, which is key for IT documentation. I used them during an ITIL project, and the clarity helped non-technical stakeholders understand the infrastructure map without extra explanation.
• Commenting and Notes: With built-in commenting, teams can leave feedback directly on diagram components. I have used this to flag potential changes to a subnet layout before the final review. There is also an option that lets you assign comments to users, which keeps accountability clear during collaborative sessions. It works well when paired with real-time editing.
• Access Controls: Creately provides robust permission settings so you can define who views, edits, or shares a diagram. I once worked on a confidential network architecture where edit access had to be tightly limited. This feature gave peace of mind and prevented unauthorized changes. It’s also useful for client-facing presentations where view-only access is preferred.

👉 How to Get Creately for Free?

• Visit Creately’s main site.
• By choosing the “Sign Up Free” option, you’ll gain immediate access to core tools at no cost and without any subscription requirements.

Visit Creately >>

Lifetime Free Basic Plan

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6) Microsoft Visio

Microsoft Visio is a smart option if you are already comfortable with the Microsoft ecosystem. I analyzed its diagram layers and data linking, which helps you build more dynamic network visuals. This network planning software solution stands out for its detailed orientation. I would recommend it to teams that need scalable and high-quality documentation. Logistics companies use Visio to outline regional connectivity models. It simplifies coordination between hubs and improves network scaling strategies.

Features:

• Auto-Alignment and Spacing: This tool automatically organizes your shapes with consistent alignment and spacing. It enhances diagram readability, especially when you’re handling dense layouts. I have relied on this during executive reviews where clarity was non-negotiable. It eliminated the need for manual adjustments and saved time on final formatting.
• Layer Management: Visio supports layer-based organization, which is incredibly useful when managing complex infrastructure maps. You can separate logical layers such as security, routing, and physical cabling. While using this feature, one thing I noticed is that locking background layers prevents accidental edits and helps keep diagrams clean during collaboration. It’s an effective way to build modular network views.
• Cloud Storage Support: Diagrams can be saved directly to OneDrive or SharePoint, giving users flexibility across devices. I once edited a Visio file from a hotel lobby using my tablet and then synced the changes back to our team’s shared folder. This integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem makes it an easy pick for remote and hybrid environments.
• Touchscreen Compatibility: Visio is optimized for touchscreen use, allowing drag-and-drop and shape editing with gestures. I tested this on a Surface device and found the interaction surprisingly fluid. It’s convenient for quick sketches or field updates when you don’t have access to a mouse. You will notice that switching to stylus input enables smoother shape control and better handwriting-to-text conversion.
• Network Topology Suggestions: When you add networking components, Visio offers suggestions for logical topology arrangements. This feature helped me structure a client’s hybrid cloud layout in less time than manual planning. The tool lets you drag suggested paths and nodes directly onto the canvas, which accelerates mapping while still letting you customize layout decisions. It’s a smart blend of automation and control.

👉 How to Get Microsoft Visio for Free?

• Visit the Microsoft Visio product page.
• Click the “See Plans and Pricing” button to sign in with your Microsoft account and access all features free for one full month.

Link: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/visio/flowchart-software

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7) Lucidchart

Lucidchart gave me a clean, flexible workspace to sketch out my ideas and iterate quickly with my team. I checked how permissions are managed, and it is easy to control access levels. As a network design software, it is helpful to both technical and non-technical teams. I particularly liked the simplicity of its interface. Education professionals use Lucidchart to design curriculum maps. It helps teachers and administrators coordinate better on learning outcomes.

Features:

• Visio File Import: Lucidchart supports importing Visio files, which helps teams transition without losing past work. I used this feature to help a client switch from Visio to Lucidchart. Their network diagrams are imported cleanly, with only minor formatting tweaks needed. I recommend reviewing imported layers and connector logic, as complex Visio files may need a quick polish after import.
• Offline Access: Lucidchart allows offline editing, which is a major plus when internet access is limited. I once updated a branch office topology while flying, and everything synced perfectly once I reconnected. It gave me flexibility that most browser-based tools don’t offer. You can trust it to work even in low-connectivity settings.
• Presentation Mode: This feature lets you walk through diagrams directly within the platform. I have used it during stakeholder meetings to highlight specific segments of our network without switching to another tool. While using this feature, one thing I noticed is that linking frames to key components makes the walkthrough smoother and keeps your audience focused. It’s like turning your diagram into a guided slideshow.
• Smart Diagramming: Lucidchart uses AI-powered suggestions to align, connect, and lay out shapes intelligently. It speeds up diagramming, especially for large network maps. I found it very helpful while building a cloud-hybrid layout—the suggested flows were accurate enough to use with minimal edits. This saves both time and manual cleanup.
• Export Options: You can export diagrams in multiple formats like PDF, PNG, and SVG. This makes it easy to embed visuals into reports, manuals, or emails. I used the SVG export for a developer portal that needed scalable network graphics. The tool lets you set custom export resolutions, which is great for maintaining clarity in print or web formats.
• Conditional Formatting: Lucidchart allows you to apply rules that visually indicate the status of your network components. I once used it to show CPU loads by changing router icon colors based on live data from a Google Sheet. You will notice that using icon shape variations along with color cues improves readability, especially when sharing diagrams with non-technical teams.

👉 How to Get Lucidchart for Free?

• Visit the Lucidchart website.
• Click on “Sign Up Free” to instantly activate your lifetime basic plan without entering any credit card or making a payment.

Link: https://www.lucidchart.com/pages/examples/network_diagram_software

Feature Comparison Table

What is a Network Diagram?

A network diagram demonstrates an organization through the visual medium. It also reflects on the organization’s interactions with the team members. Such diagrams help in improving business productivity.

A physical network diagram focuses on the essential physical aspects within the network topology, like racks, cables, ports, etc.

A logical network diagram focuses on the connections and other elements that remain invisible but are associated with the physical objects in the network.

Network diagrams focus on planning, implementing, and troubleshooting different network issues.

The three most common types of network diagrams are:

• Computer Network
• Network Security
• Switch Diagrams

Whether it is physical or logical network diagrams, they focus on either a singular component or multiple aspects within a network.

How Did We Choose Best FREE Network Diagram Software?

At Guru99, we are committed to providing credible, relevant, and objective insights backed by accurate and thorough reviews. After analyzing over 40 network diagram tools across 100+ hours, we curated this guide featuring both free and paid options that support infrastructure planning, real-time collaboration, and issue diagnosis. Each platform has been tested for usability, clarity, and technical efficiency, ensuring you get trustworthy and practical solutions. The content is frequently updated to reflect the most reliable tools available today. We focus on the following factors while reviewing a tool based on

• User-Friendliness: We made sure to shortlist tools with intuitive interfaces that simplify diagramming for all users.
• Feature Set: Our team chose options based on essential features like templates, icons, and automatic layout support.
• Collaboration: Experts in our team selected the tools based on their real-time collaboration and sharing capabilities.
• Compatibility: We chose based on whether each platform runs smoothly across devices and offers cloud-based flexibility.
• Customization: We made sure each option allows you to modify designs with ease, for versatile project requirements.
• Community and Support: We considered active communities and helpful documentation to ensure rapid issue resolution and learning.

What are the different types of network diagrams?

Different types of network diagrams serve different purposes. Here are the different types:

• Topology Diagram
• Logical Network Diagram
• LAN Diagram
• WAN Diagram
• Wireless Network Diagram
• VoIP Network Diagram
• VPN Diagram
• Data Center Diagram
• Subnetting Diagram
• Load Balancing Diagram
• Hierarchical Network Diagram
• Enterprise Network Diagram

Verdict

Creating a network diagram has always been about clarity and efficiency for me. I often look for a platform that is secure and intuitive and helps solve communication gaps in technical discussions. If you are deciding how to resolve issues in managing and presenting network architecture, check my verdict.

• Miro: A user-friendly and robust tool, Miro’s real-time collaboration and AI-powered diagramming make it a superior choice for distributed teams.
• Visme: Its customizable templates and drag-and-drop simplicity allow fast yet impactful diagram creation. An ideal pick if visual clarity matters most to you.
• EdrawMax: With its built-in symbol library and flexible export options, this is the ultimate platform for professionals who need comprehensive visuals and secure sharing.

FAQs