If the business network contains more than a few routers, it is a good idea to invest in some way to accurately describe and document its topology and characteristics, and plan for future changes. Network design tools aren’t new, but some of the features and functionality they now contain are. Use these tips to get a handle on the available network design tool options.

In their most basic form, network design tools can create an organizational flowchart for the enterprise’s network design. However, more advanced tools can achieve more complex results; for example, some tools are able to create configuration specifications for routers directly from the diagram, others can predict how the network will react to a change before it is implemented (for more information, refer to Info-Tech Advisor research note, “Prevent Network Performance Surprises with Modeling Tools”). The desired level of complexity will dictate the price tag. Tools start as low as $260 for basic Microsoft Visio, but can climb to over $100,000 for more advanced solutions.