How we did it

Our testing aimed to see whether VisualRoute could solve network connectivity problems faster than the command-line traceroute utility and be accurate in comparing the VisualRoute analysis with traceroute lists the command-line method displays. We also aimed to check accuracy of VisualRoute's location information by talking to Web site administrators (such as, "Is your site really in Dallas?"), and officials at AT&T WorldNet, Level 3 Communications and MCI. We also looked for a responsive, intuitive user interface and multiple-platform support.

We installed VisualRoute on a Windows 2000 Advanced Server machine on our lab's six-segment Fast Ethernet network. Each segment consists of a server and 25 clients, all connected to the Internet via T-1 and frame relay lines. To access VisualRoute's Web-based interface, we used Internet Explorer 6.0.

To continue reading, register here and become an Insider. You'll get free access to premium content from CIO, Computerworld, CSO, InfoWorld, and Network World. See more Insider content or sign in.

Our testing aimed to see whether VisualRoute could solve network connectivity problems faster than the command-line traceroute utility and be accurate in comparing the VisualRoute analysis with traceroute lists the command-line method displays. We also aimed to check accuracy of VisualRoute's location information by talking to Web site administrators (such as, "Is your site really in Dallas?"), and officials at AT&T WorldNet, Level 3 Communications and MCI. We also looked for a responsive, intuitive user interface and multiple-platform support.

We installed VisualRoute on a Windows 2000 Advanced Server machine on our lab's six-segment Fast Ethernet network. Each segment consists of a server and 25 clients, all connected to the Internet via T-1 and frame relay lines. To access VisualRoute's Web-based interface, we used Internet Explorer 6.0.

Read more about infrastructure management in Network World's Infrastructure Management section.