Free Network Rack Builder and Design Tool
RackBuilder is a free network rack design tool and network rack builder for IT closets and IDFs. Use it as a network rack designer to place switches and patch panels by U, then review the elevation before install day.
Ready to lay out a network rack in the live designer?
What this network rack builder includes
The tool turns catalog network gear into a visual elevation. You choose a rack height, add devices from the library, and see empty U while you work. That makes it a practical network rack planner for closets and small rooms, not just a static sketch.
- Place switches, routers, firewalls, patch panels, and cable managers by U.
- Block library adds when the rack has no free U left for that device height.
- See catalog wattage labels where available while you place gear.
- Start without an account; guest layouts survive reload, and signed-in users can save designs to the cloud.
How to use a network rack designer by U
Inventory each device height first, then pick a cabinet size with spare capacity. Group patch panels with the switches they feed, leave U for horizontal managers near dense switching, and keep heavier UPS or PDU gear lower in the stack.
Move that plan into the designer and place devices in order. New devices from the library are blocked when the rack has no free U for that height. For a step-by-step closet workflow, read how to design a network rack. For spacing rules, see U-space best practices.
Network rack design tool tips for closets and IDFs
Align patch panel ports with switch ports to shorten patch cords. Reserve vertical managers for trunk bundles. Confirm receptacle types and circuit capacity using nameplate or catalog wattage outside the layout itself. RackBuilder does not store chassis weights, so compare vendor weight totals to the rack load rating separately.
Choosing form factor matters as much as U math. Compare 2-post, 4-post, and wall-mount racks, then lock the elevation in RackBuilder so facilities and installers share one picture. For cabinet-focused custom builds, see the server rack builder guide.
Free network rack design tool vs saved designs
Designing stays free. Guests can plan without signup, and work in the browser survives a reload. Sign in when you want cloud sync across devices. Free accounts can save up to three rack designs; Pro unlocks unlimited saved designs. Compare options on Pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What is a network rack builder?
A network rack builder is a browser tool for laying out switches, patch panels, routers, firewalls, and cable managers in a virtual rack elevation. RackBuilder lets you place catalog devices by U height so you can review the plan before install day.
How do I use this as a network rack designer?
Pick a rack height, add devices from the catalog, and arrange them in the live elevation. Library adds are blocked when the rack has no free U left for that device height. Start without an account; guest work stays in the browser across reloads until you sign in to save.
Is this network rack design tool free?
Yes. You can use the network rack design tool free without signup to place devices and plan the elevation. Free accounts can save up to three designs; Pro unlocks unlimited saved designs when you need more capacity.
What belongs in a network rack planner layout?
Typical network racks group patch panels with the switches they feed, leave U for horizontal cable managers, and keep heavier UPS or PDU gear lower. Use the catalog power labels where available to cross-check circuits outside the tool, and reserve spare U for growth.
Build your network rack layout next
Open the free designer and turn this plan into a live elevation.