networkmapping

Network mapping is the process of discovering, documenting, and visualizing the devices, links, and data flows that comprise a computer network. The goal is to produce a usable representation of network topology and asset inventory that supports design, management, and planning.

It typically yields a topology map showing physical and logical connections, an inventory of network devices (routers, switches, firewalls, load balancers, servers), IP addressing schemes, and the services and dependencies that run on the network. Data sources include active and passive discovery, management protocols, and network telemetry such as SNMP, LLDP/CDP, routing tables, NetFlow, logs, and configuration data.

Methods include automated discovery, topology mapping, and dependency analysis. Outputs can include topology diagrams, asset registries, dependency graphs, CMDB entries, and change records. Representations may be graph-based, tabular, or multiview diagrams and may be stored in databases or standard interchange formats.

Applications include capacity planning, performance monitoring, fault isolation, incident response, change management, security risk assessment, and compliance. It helps IT staff understand how components interoperate and how traffic or failures propagate through the network.

Challenges include dynamic networks with virtualization, software-defined networks, and cloud environments that span multiple providers. Data may be incomplete or stale, requiring ongoing automation and validation. Privacy and security considerations arise when mapping sensitive network details.

Common tools range from commercial network management suites to open-source scanners and visualization programs. Outputs are often integrated into configuration management databases (CMDB), ticketing systems, or security dashboards. Data models frequently use graph representations to capture relationships among devices, links, and services.