Drawing Network Diagrams


Tutorial Home >Software >Graphics >Microsoft Visio 2000 >Using Stencils and Templates >Drawing Network Diagrams
Tutorial Home >Software >Office >Microsoft Visio 2000 >Using Stencils and Templates >Drawing Network Diagrams

  Step 1:  Open Network Diagram Solution

Open a Report
With the blank drawing open, from the File menu, select New, and then select the Network Diagram folder. From this folder, select the Basic Network option. The Basic Network solution displays to the left of your drawing page.
  Step 2:  Add Network Shapes

Open a Report
From the accompanying stencils, drag-and-drop network topology shapes (such as a bus or Ethernet) and devices that connect to the network (such as a computer and printer) to the page. Edit the shapes' text with appropriate labels (numbers, names).
  Step 3:  Connect Network to Devices

Open a Report
From the items on the page, select a network topology shape (bus, Ethernet, or other). Put the pointer over the shape's control handle (the pointer changes to a four-way arrow) and drag it to a device's connection point. The connector is glued to the shape when the point turns red. The shape can be moved without breaking the connection. If devices are linked to other items (Laptop, Modem, fax), use other connector shapes from the stencils to show these connections.
  Step 4:  Attach Custom Properties

Open a Report
You might want to associate specific information (manufacturer name, product number, serial number, location, or room) with a network shape. Right-click on a network shape. From the pop-up menu, select Properties. The Custom Properties dialog box displays. Enter the appropriate information. If you enter data in this dialog box, you can then generate reports based on these values. And when you're finished, don't forget to save the file (File> Save As).