Comprehensive Network Mapping? 1

[BTilson]

I have recently taken over the IT duties here at work. Our network spans across a 90,000sf facility that is split between two physical locations. Everything has been thrown together in a relatively haphazard way, with switches here, hubs there, cables through random holes in the walls, all sorts of stuff. I really need to get a handle on how all this stuff is laid out, but I also REALLY want to avoid having to hand trace this spaghetti mess if at all possible.

I have tried looking at several trial versions of different network mapping programs, but none of them are nearly comprehensive enough for my needs.

So on to my question: Are there any network mappers out there that can get to the level of detecting hubs, switches, networked printers, etc? Basically anything that is connected with a cat5 cable, I want to detect.

Does anything like this exist out there?

Any input is greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

Brooks Tilson
Database Development
Tilson Machine, Inc.

 

[dearingkr]

I know you don't want to hear this, but you are going to have to "hand trace this spaghetti mess".

But, give yourself a head start first.
1. If available, gather any existing documentation, diagrams, etc.
2. If available, get a copy of existing inventory; your comptroller/finance folks may be your best source.
3. Scan the network; should pick up most SNMP and IP-enabled devices; unmanaged devices like cheap hubs and switches won't show up on your scan.
4. Map out what you have so far; for managed devices you should be able to go in and look at the ARP table to see what MAC address is connected to which port.

Once you've got all that, it's time to start tracing some spaghetti.

When you're done, give a copy of the new inventory to your comptroller. They usually need it for insurance purposes.


MCSE CCNA CCDA

 

[BTilson]

Thanks very much for the input! Guess I'll be pulling some weekend hours sometime soon, since there's no way they'll let me do the tracing during work hours.

Also, unfortunately, your #1 and #2 points are definitely non-existent here. Should make for an interesting experience. It really is a mess here!

Thanks!

Brooks Tilson
Database Development
Tilson Machine, Inc.

 

[resorttech12]

I've used 3Com Network Supervisor. It gives you a decent picture of the logical map, as far as what is connected to what.
There is a free trial version on their website. May not give you everything you are looking for, but it is a place to start.
Good luck with the spaghetti!
mk

 

[jimbopalmer]

Some free tools that are worth every penny you pay.

Angry IP Scanner

http://www.angryziber.com/w/Download

can be set to detect IP Address, MAC address, WorkGroup, Computer Name, Device name, User name, and Ping time.

If you have managed switches, You can look at your ARP tables to match Port Number to MAC Address, then use Angry IP Scanner to identify the device.

The Dude

http://www.mikrotik.com/thedude.php

Will make maps of devices, identifying Routers.
The Dude shows how your network really looks.

Network Notepad

http://www.networknotepad.com/

Helps you draw network maps of how you wish your network looked.



I tried to remain child-like, all I acheived was childish.