Auvik has established itself as a significant player in the network management industry, offering powerful tools that help businesses monitor and manage their network infrastructure with ease. The company’s focus on simplifying complex network operations has made it a preferred choice for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT teams globally.
Below, we’ll highlight all aspects of Auvik, detailing its founding story, growth trajectory, and the challenges it has overcome. Additionally, we’ll explore Auvik’s product suite, competitive landscape, and market positioning as Auvik’s offerings evolve.
Auvik’s Inception
Auvik was founded in 2011 by Marc Morin, Alex Hoff, and David Yach, who were driven by the desire to simplify network management for IT professionals. The founders, each with extensive experience in the tech industry, noticed a significant gap in the market: traditional network management tools were overly complex and difficult to use, especially for small to mid-sized businesses. They saw an opportunity to create a cloud-based platform that would allow IT teams to manage networks with less friction and greater efficiency.
Marc Morin, a serial entrepreneur with a track record of successful ventures, including PixStream and Sandvine, brought his extensive experience to the table. Alongside Hoff and Yach, he envisioned a tool that could automate the tedious and time-consuming aspects of network management, making it accessible even to those without specialized training. Their goal was to create a platform that would not only provide visibility into network operations but also allow for proactive management and automated problem resolution.
Auvik’s initial success can be attributed to its innovative approach to network mapping and automation, which quickly attracted a loyal customer base. The company has since expanded its capabilities, adding features for SaaS management and Wi-Fi monitoring, among others. Today, Auvik supports millions of devices across thousands of networks globally, positioning itself as a leader in the network management industry
Early Challenges and Milestones
In the early stages of its development, Auvik faced several challenges typical of tech startups, particularly in refining its product to meet market needs and securing early customers. One of the significant challenges was convincing potential users to transition from established, albeit complex, network management tools to Auvik’s more streamlined, cloud-based platform. The founders had to address concerns about cloud security and reliability, as many IT professionals were accustomed to on-premises solutions.
Auvik overcame these challenges by focusing on ease of use and automation, which quickly became key selling points. The platform’s ability to automatically map out networks and provide real-time insights without requiring extensive manual input was a game-changer, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses with limited IT resources. This focus on user-friendly design and automation helped Auvik gain traction in the market.
Key milestones during this period include the successful exit from beta testing and the acquisition of its first paying customer in 2015. These milestones validated Auvik’s business model and product-market fit, setting the stage for further growth. By 2019, Auvik had secured significant financing and expanded its operations globally, marking its transition from a startup to a leading player in the network management industry
The Forrester study, released in 2021, found that enterprises implementing Auvik achieved a 173% ROI over three years. The study revealed that Auvik’s automated network management capabilities resulted in over $1 million in time savings for network monitoring, avoided $600,000 in legacy license costs, and improved operational efficiencies by $567,000. These findings validated Auvik’s value proposition, demonstrating its ability to simplify network management, reduce costs, and improve IT team productivity. These milestones were pivotal in establishing Auvik as a leading player in the network management industry, driving its rapid growth and expansion.
Auvik’s Timeline of Growth
Auvik’s growth trajectory since its founding in 2011 has been marked by a series of significant milestones that reflect its rising influence in the network management industry. After successfully exiting beta testing in 2015, Auvik rapidly secured its first paying customers, validating its market fit and setting the stage for accelerated growth. By 2019, the company had expanded its reach globally, managing over one million network devices across more than 100,000 networks.
This global expansion was bolstered by strategic acquisitions, such as the purchase of Talaia, a Spanish network traffic analytics company, and MetaGeek, a Wi-Fi monitoring tools provider, which enhanced Auvik’s product offerings and market presence.
By 2024, Auvik had grown to manage over 1 million network devices globally, supported by a robust infrastructure and a dedicated team of over 300 employees. The company’s continued focus on simplifying network management and expanding its capabilities through strategic acquisitions and technological advancements has solidified its position as a leader in the industry
Company Culture and Vision
Auvik fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, which has been integral to its success and rapid growth. The company places a strong emphasis on maintaining a remote-first work environment where employees feel empowered to experiment, take ownership of their projects, and contribute to the overall mission of simplifying network management. Auvik’s leadership, including co-founder Marc Morin, actively encourages open communication and teamwork, recognizing that the best ideas often come from collaborative efforts across different teams.
The company’s culture is also shaped by its commitment to customer satisfaction. Auvik’s teams are driven by the goal of reducing friction for IT professionals, ensuring that their tools not only meet but exceed user expectations. This customer-centric approach has led to high levels of innovation, as the company continuously adapts its products to address the evolving needs of its clients. The supportive and dynamic work environment at Auvik has been a key factor in attracting top talent, further fueling the company’s growth and innovation.
Market Position
Auvik has positioned itself as a leader in the network management industry, particularly within the small to mid-sized business and MSP segments. Its cloud-native platform and focus on automation have resonated well with these markets, allowing Auvik to capture a significant share despite the presence of larger, more established competitors. Auvik’s ability to offer a comprehensive, yet easy-to-use solution has made it a preferred choice for organizations that require robust network management capabilities without the complexity associated with traditional on-premises tools.
The company’s strategic acquisitions, such as Talaia and MetaGeek, have further strengthened its market position by expanding its product offerings and enhancing its technological capabilities. These acquisitions have allowed Auvik to offer more specialized tools, such as network traffic analytics and Wi-Fi monitoring, which have broadened its appeal and provided additional value to its users.
Looking ahead, Auvik is well-positioned to continue its growth, particularly as more businesses move towards cloud-based solutions and seek to automate their IT operations. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric development, combined with its strong market presence, suggests that Auvik will remain a formidable player in the network management space.
Product Suite Overview
The initial offering was particularly valuable for Managed Service Providers and small to mid-sized businesses, as it allowed them to manage network infrastructure more efficiently without requiring extensive in-house expertise. The platform’s automated network mapping and documentation capabilities were also a key differentiator, enabling IT teams to quickly understand and manage even the most complex network environments. This focus on automation and user-friendly design laid the foundation for Auvik’s rapid adoption in the IT management market
Evolution of Product Suite
As Auvik grew, so did the capabilities of its product suite. After its initial success with network discovery and performance monitoring, Auvik expanded its platform to include more advanced features that catered to the evolving needs of its users. One of the significant developments was the introduction of TrafficInsights in 2018, a tool that provides deep visibility into network traffic, helping IT teams better understand and manage network usage and performance.
Auvik also integrated support for a broader range of network devices, extending compatibility to over 15,000 devices from more than 700 vendors. This extensive support allowed users to manage a diverse array of network environments, making Auvik a more versatile tool for IT professionals. The platform’s evolution also included enhancements in automation, with more tasks being automated to reduce the manual workload on IT teams, such as automated alerts for network issues and more sophisticated reporting capabilities.
Additionally, Auvik’s strategic acquisitions, like the purchase of Talaia for network traffic analytics and MetaGeek for Wi-Fi monitoring, further enriched the platform’s offerings. These acquisitions enabled Auvik to integrate specialized tools directly into its platform, providing users with a more comprehensive and seamless network management experience. These continuous enhancements have solidified Auvik’s position as a leading network management solution, capable of addressing the complex needs of modern IT environments
Challenges and Overcoming Adversity
As Auvik expanded its footprint in the network management industry, it encountered several significant challenges. One of the primary issues was the skepticism surrounding cloud-based network management, especially from businesses that were traditionally reliant on on-premises solutions. This skepticism was rooted in concerns about data security, latency, and the reliability of cloud infrastructure. Additionally, Auvik faced the challenge of differentiating itself in a crowded market, where established competitors had already gained significant traction with more traditional tools.
Another challenge was the technical complexity involved in integrating a wide array of network devices and ensuring compatibility across different environments. As Auvik aimed to support over 15,000 devices from more than 700 vendors, ensuring seamless integration and consistent performance across all these devices was a daunting task. This required continuous updates and improvements to the platform to maintain compatibility and performance.
Auvik also had to navigate the challenge of scaling its platform to handle the growing number of users and devices under management. As the user base expanded globally, ensuring that the platform could maintain high performance and reliability became increasingly complex. These challenges required Auvik to invest heavily in infrastructure, development, and customer support to meet the growing demands of its users.
To address these challenges, Auvik employed several strategic approaches. To combat skepticism about cloud-based management, Auvik focused on building robust security features into its platform, such as end-to-end encryption and automated compliance reporting. These features were designed to alleviate concerns about data security and make the transition to cloud-based management smoother for traditional businesses.
In terms of technical complexity, Auvik invested in developing strong partnerships with network device manufacturers to ensure deep integration and compatibility with a wide range of devices. This collaboration allowed Auvik to stay ahead of the curve in supporting new devices and technologies as they entered the market.
Auvik also strategically expanded its platform’s capabilities through acquisitions, such as the purchase of Talaia for network traffic analytics and MetaGeek for Wi-Fi monitoring. These acquisitions allowed Auvik to incorporate specialized tools into its platform, providing users with a more comprehensive solution while also differentiating itself from competitors.
Finally, to handle the challenges of scaling, Auvik continuously upgraded its cloud infrastructure to ensure high availability and reliability as its user base grew. The company also placed a strong emphasis on customer support, offering extensive resources and responsive service to help users make the most of the platform.
Auvik In The Competitive Landscape
Auvik operates in a highly competitive market, where it faces significant competition from established players in the network management space, such as SolarWinds, PRTG Network Monitor, and LogicMonitor. These competitors offer a range of tools that overlap with Auvik’s capabilities, particularly in network monitoring, automation, and device management. However, Auvik differentiates itself with its cloud-native architecture and user-friendly interface, which simplifies deployment and reduces the learning curve for IT teams.
One of Auvik’s primary advantages over its competitors is its emphasis on automation and ease of use. Unlike some traditional tools that require extensive configuration and manual intervention, Auvik automates many of the time-consuming tasks involved in network management, such as network discovery, configuration backups, and real-time monitoring. This focus on automation not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the likelihood of human error, making it an attractive option for small to mid-sized businesses and Managed Service Providers.
Auvik’s ability to support a vast array of network devices from over 700 vendors gives it a significant edge in terms of versatility and compatibility. This extensive device support allows IT teams to manage diverse network environments more effectively, without being constrained by compatibility issues. While competitors like SolarWinds and PRTG also offer robust feature sets, Auvik’s cloud-based model and emphasis on automation make it a strong contender, particularly for businesses looking to simplify and streamline their network management processes
Success Stories
Auvik has a proven track record of delivering significant benefits to its clients, as evidenced by various case studies. For example, Fulton Public Schools utilized Auvik to optimize their network management, leading to improved operational efficiency and enhanced network visibility. The school district was able to reduce downtime and better manage their multi-campus network environment, ensuring a reliable network for staff and students.
Another notable success is Brightworks Group, which leveraged Auvik’s SaaS management capabilities to automate SaaS inventory and reduce license waste. By gaining better control over shadow IT, Brightworks was able to improve security and operational efficiency, reducing costs associated with unused or redundant software licenses.
Additionally, the City of Williamsburg used Auvik to empower its small IT team by automating network management tasks and providing real-time network insights. This deployment allowed the city to maintain high network reliability despite limited IT resources, ultimately enhancing public services.
Vision for the Future
Auvik’s vision for the future is centered around continuing its mission to simplify and enhance network management through innovative technology. The company aims to expand its product offerings by integrating more advanced features such as AI-driven automation, enhanced network security tools, and deeper analytics capabilities. Auvik is also focused on further expanding its global footprint, with plans to enter new markets and increase its presence in existing ones.
Looking ahead, Auvik envisions a future where its platform not only manages networks but also predicts and prevents issues before they occur, leveraging AI and machine learning. This proactive approach to network management is intended to help IT teams operate more efficiently and reduce downtime, thereby increasing overall business productivity. Additionally, Auvik is committed to maintaining its user-centric approach by continuously gathering feedback from customers to guide the development of new features and improvements.
The company is also exploring opportunities to integrate with more third-party tools and platforms, enhancing the interoperability of its solutions and providing users with a more comprehensive IT management experience. Auvik’s long-term goal is to become the go-to platform for network management across various industries, driven by innovation, customer satisfaction, and a relentless focus on making IT management easier and more effective.
Auvik SaaS Management Overview
Auvik SaaS Management is a powerful tool designed to provide businesses with comprehensive visibility and control over their SaaS applications. It helps organizations manage and secure their SaaS environments by identifying and mitigating risks like shadow IT and unauthorized software usage.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive SaaS Visibility: Auvik provides a unified view of all SaaS applications, helping businesses monitor usage and manage licenses effectively.
- Real-Time Alerts: Receive immediate notifications for security incidents, risky user behavior, and unauthorized software usage, enabling proactive management.
- Automated Software Inventory: The platform automatically generates a detailed inventory of all SaaS applications, including user access, purpose, and lifecycle stage.
- SaaS Health Score: Auvik’s proprietary health score tracks the overall health of your SaaS environment, identifying areas for improvement and optimization.
- Streamlined Offboarding: Easily manage employee offboarding by tracking and securing all SaaS applications accessed by departing staff.
The platform’s real-time monitoring and alerts make it easy to track software inventory, user behavior, and security incidents, ensuring that businesses can maintain compliance and optimize their SaaS usage. Auvik’s centralized dashboard and automation capabilities streamline IT processes, saving time and enhancing efficiency.
Pros:
- Centralized Management: Auvik’s unified dashboard simplifies the management of SaaS applications across the organization, reducing complexity and improving oversight.
- Security Focused: With real-time monitoring and alerts, Auvik enhances security by identifying potential risks and unauthorized activities promptly.
- Time-Saving Automation: Automated SaaS inventory management and reporting save significant time for IT teams, allowing them to focus on more strategic tasks.
- Ease of Use: The platform is user-friendly, with an intuitive interface that makes it accessible even to those less familiar with SaaS management tools.
Cons:
- Advanced Billing Structure: The billing setup can be complex, especially regarding the charges associated with software discovery and management, for smaller organizations unfamiliar with usage-based billing.
Auvik Network Management Overview
Auvik Network Management is a cloud-based solution designed to provide deep visibility and control over network infrastructure. It simplifies network management by automating tasks such as network mapping, monitoring, and configuration backups.
Key Features:
- Automated Network Discovery: Auvik automatically scans and maps your entire network, providing a real-time topology view that updates as changes occur.
- Real-Time Network Monitoring: Continuously monitor network performance with customizable alerts that notify you of potential issues, helping to prevent outages before they impact users.
- Configuration Backup and Recovery: The platform automatically backs up device configurations, allowing for quick restoration in case of failures or misconfigurations.
- Traffic Analysis: Auvik provides detailed insights into network traffic, helping you identify bottlenecks, bandwidth hogs, and potential security threats.
- Multi-Vendor Support: The software supports a wide range of network devices from various vendors, ensuring compatibility across diverse IT environments.
The platform offers real-time insights into network performance, helping IT teams quickly identify and resolve issues, reducing downtime. Auvik’s integration capabilities and user-friendly interface make it an essential tool for managed service providers (MSPs) and IT departments looking to streamline their network management processes and improve overall efficiency.
Pros:
- Ease of Deployment: Auvik’s cloud-based nature and automated discovery make it easy to set up, allowing IT teams to start managing networks quickly without extensive configuration.
- Centralized Dashboard: The platform offers a unified view of all network assets, simplifying management and providing quick access to critical information.
- Automated Backups: Regular automated backups of network device configurations provide peace of mind and quick recovery options in case of failures.
- Scalability: Auvik scales easily with your network, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to large organizations.
Cons:
- Limited On-Premise Features: Auvik is primarily cloud-based, which might limit its functionality in environments that require on-premise solutions or those with strict data sovereignty requirements.
Auvik for MSPs Overview
Auvik offers a comprehensive network management solution tailored for Managed Service Providers, offering a robust set of tools designed to simplify network monitoring, management, and troubleshooting.
Key Features:
- Automated Network Mapping: Auvik automatically discovers and maps all devices on a client’s network, providing an up-to-date visual topology that aids in quick issue identification.
- Multi-Site Management: Manage multiple client networks from a single dashboard, enabling MSPs to monitor and support diverse environments efficiently.
- Configuration Management: Automatically back up device configurations and restore them easily in case of network failures or changes, ensuring quick recovery and continuity.
- Real-Time Alerts: Customizable alerts notify MSPs of network issues as they arise, allowing for proactive management and faster problem resolution.
- Third-Party Integrations: Auvik integrates seamlessly with popular MSP tools like ConnectWise, Autotask, and ServiceNow, enhancing workflows and improving service delivery.
The platform’s cloud-based approach allows MSPs to easily deploy and scale their services across multiple client environments, providing real-time visibility and automated insights into network health, application performance, and client satisfaction.
Auvik’s user-friendly interface, combined with its powerful PSA features, helps MSPs reduce manual tasks, increase operational efficiency, and deliver high-quality service to their clients.
Pros:
- Streamlined Operations: Auvik’s automation features significantly reduce the manual workload, allowing MSPs to focus on higher-value tasks and strategic initiatives.
- Scalability: The platform is designed to grow with your business, making it ideal for MSPs managing networks of varying sizes and complexities.
- User-Friendly Interface: Auvik’s intuitive dashboard and easy setup process make it accessible even for MSPs new to network management tools.
- Comprehensive Support: Auvik offers extensive customer support, including documentation, chat, and training resources, ensuring MSPs can maximize the platform’s potential.
Cons:
- Learning Curve for Advanced Features: While easy to use, mastering Auvik’s more advanced capabilities may require additional time and training for some users.
Auvik Insights Wrap-Up
Auvik has firmly established itself as a leader in the network management industry by offering innovative, cloud-based solutions that simplify and automate complex IT tasks. From its early challenges to its current position as a trusted partner for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and small to mid-sized businesses, Auvik has consistently focused on reducing the friction of network management. The platform’s extensive device support, automation features, and real-time insights have proven invaluable across various industries, from education to government.
As businesses continue to adopt cloud technologies and expand their digital infrastructures, Auvik’s commitment to innovation positions it well for future growth. Looking ahead, Auvik is poised to continue its impact on the industry, driven by its vision to make network management as effortless and effective as possible.