Alternative to Visio for Mac: Free and Affordable Options

YEd (Figure E) is a Java-based tool that's available for Windows and Linux. While you can use Gliffy for free, it offers more features if you're willing to pay $4.95 per month for 200 diagrams, 200 MB of storage, public and private diagrams, and unlimited collaborators.

Gliffy (Figure D) is the only web-based tool on this list, offering customizable template objects, a spell checker, import/export capabilities in various formats, and more. With its drag-and-drop functionality and numerous object libraries, you can create your network diagram quickly and easily, regardless of the platform you're using.

If you're looking for free options, Diagram Designer (Figure B) is another freeware tool that may lack modern looks but makes up for it with ease of use. Dia (Figure C), available for Linux, Mac, and Windows, has a shallow learning curve and can help you create basic network diagrams.

CADE 2 (Figure A) is an open-source GTK+ diagramming tool with a simple learning curve, allowing you to create basic network diagrams. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of costlier tools, CADE offers most of the basic functionality found in Visio.

For those who only need to use a diagramming tool occasionally, cheaper solutions like these alternatives to Visio can be a better option. At some point, every administrator will need to diagram a network, and with these free and affordable options, you can do so without breaking your budget.

Alternative to visio for mac