LANState — Visual Map for Network Monitoring
General Information
LANState is a Windows tool that shows the network as a picture rather than a list. Devices appear on a map, links between them are drawn, and their status updates in real time. For admins, this kind of view is often quicker to read than tables full of numbers — you can literally see which part of the LAN has a problem.
How It Works
After scanning the local network, LANState discovers hosts and lets the user arrange them on a diagram. Each device changes color depending on its state: reachable, down, or warning. Behind the map, the tool runs standard checks like ping, port queries, and SNMP polling. From the same map, admins can send Wake-on-LAN, perform remote shutdowns, or run traceroute. That makes it not just a monitor but also a small management console.
Features at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
| Network map | Interactive diagram showing devices and connections. |
| Monitoring | ICMP, port checks, SNMP polling for live status. |
| Remote actions | Wake-on-LAN, shutdown, traceroute, command execution. |
| Alerts | Notifications when hosts fail or thresholds are exceeded. |
| Reporting | Event logs and exportable summaries. |
| Interface | Visual and easy to read, suitable even for non-technical staff. |
Installation Guide
1. Download the installer from the official site.
2. Run setup with admin rights.
3. Follow the wizard; default options are usually fine.
4. Launch the program and start a network scan.
5. Place devices on the map, adjust their layout.
6. Configure checks, SNMP if needed, and set alerts.
7. Enable remote actions like Wake-on-LAN if required.
Where It Fits
LANState is useful in small and mid-size networks where people prefer to see a map instead of scrolling through long host lists. Helpdesk teams often rely on it to quickly confirm whether a switch, router, or server is alive. It also helps when explaining network layout to management — the diagram is far easier to show than a set of tables.
Limitations
The tool works best on LANs with dozens or maybe a few hundred devices. Once networks get larger, the map becomes crowded and harder to manage. Historical reporting is limited, and for cross-datacenter or WAN-level visibility, admins usually switch to something heavier like Zabbix or Icinga.
Comparison
| Tool | Platforms | Strengths | Typical Use |
| LANState | Windows | Visual maps, remote actions, simple interface | Mid-size LANs needing both monitoring and control |
| LANMonitor | Windows | Lightweight host checks, SNMP stats | Small networks, quick availability tests |
| Zabbix | Linux/Windows | Full monitoring suite, scalable, alerting | Enterprises, large infrastructures |