NetVidi provides the most commonly used features of an enterprise-class network management product at only a fraction of the cost. At the core is NetVidi's dynamic discovery and collection engine allowing networking professionals to automate daily administration tasks by sending customizable command sets to any or all devices. Up/Down monitoring, FTP and Syslog services are bundled in, providing a mobile yet capable toolkit. NetVidi Professional introduces automated security, compliance, and industry best analysis and reporting. The new visualization engine generates interactive and exportable (PNG, Visio) network diagrams depicting network architecture and interconnectivity based of running configurations. Free version is limited to 10 devices.
I was looking for a cheap router/switch application that works in Windows, was easy to use, and didn't require a server platform. Most of what I found was either in Unix and really complicated to run, in Windows but required an always-on server platform and a huge install or cost too much. I used to run Kiwi Cattools, but it is too expensive now that they got bought by Solarwinds. At $29 this is good replacement.
Good start for an admin's toolkit
yumyumy2
Pros
This tool is good for collecting information across the entire infrastructure, like interface statistics and checking configuration settings for compliance.
Cons
Only one user can use the tool at a time. Also the password to lock the application must me shared if you want anyone else to use the application. It would be nice if you could add more than one user. Also like the other reviewer mentioned, you cant schedule the tasks.
Summary
Having looked at the company's website NetVidi look brand new. The "by engineers for engineers" mantra they tout is evident in the focus of NetVidi. There isn't much gloss or reporting capabilities, but it is a helpful tool for getting actual work done. At $29 for the full version it's a no-brainer.
NetVidi packs a powerful little punch
ch_underwood
Pros
-Easy wizard to start discovery - compatible with Cisco, Juniper and others. (Didnt test the others)
-up/down monitoring
-SSH to devices right from the program
-Can automate batch show and configure commands.
-Simple install
Cons
-Limited number of reports / Unable to create my own reports
-Setting up tasks is not particularly intuitive. (Was able to figure it out with the help docs tough)
-Can't schedule tasks
Summary
Netvidi has about 3 things it does well. Discovery of managed infrastructure, up/down ping status, and the execution of batch command sets. I've been using the free version and have been pleased.