Network Troubleshooting Tools

Network Troubleshooting Tools Overview

What are Network Troubleshooting Tools?

Network troubleshooting tools help technicians find, analyze, and solve network issues.

Networks contain a large number of potential failure points. Hardware or software problems at one point in the network can cause interruptions, bottlenecks, and outages for many users. Network troubleshooting tools aim to help technicians solve these issues quickly and reliably.

Network troubleshooting tools monitor and analyze network traffic. Users can analyze the network in real-time or save reports for later analysis. Some vendors offer graphical assistance to help users identify where and when problems occur. These interfaces may include customizable data charts, visual network maps, and lists of network elements with their status.

Some vendors also offer network configuration tools. These tools are used for network management tasks, such as automation, compliance, and vulnerability assessment. These tools may support integration with the vendor’s network troubleshooting tools.

Network Troubleshooting Tools Features & Capabilities

Basic Features

Most vendors offering network troubleshooting tools include these basic features:

• Real-time monitoring of network traffic

• Data archiving for later analysis or comparison

• Support for VoIP monitoring

• Support for wide-area networks (WAN)

Additional Features

Some vendors offer additional features, including:

• Graphical representations of network elements and traffic

• Automatic network mapping

• Highlighting of potential problems

• Lists of network elements and their status

• Customizable alerts to notify technicians of problems

• Network management toolsets

Pricing Information

Pricing for network troubleshooting tools can vary based on the feature set, the size of the network, and the amount of data analyzed. Vendors may offer free trials or free tiers with limited features. Some network troubleshooting tools are open-source and free.

Some vendors charge by the number of elements - routers, switches, servers, and access points - in the network. Pricing ranges from under $3,000.00 for up to 100 elements to over $30,000.00 for unlimited elements.

Other vendors charge by feature set. These tiers range from under $300.00 per license for lower tiers to over $1,000.00 per license for higher tiers.

Vendors with one-time licensing fees may offer yearly maintenance and support plans. The prices listed here are licensing fees. Additionally, some vendors offer a yearly rate based on your requirements.