A network map is a diagram or inventory showing how computers, servers, network segments, devices, and connections relate. It can also record details such as device roles, locations, or communication paths. IT teams use maps to plan infrastructure, troubleshoot problems, and understand which systems depend on one another.
In cyber security, a network map can help defenders identify exposed systems, segment sensitive resources, and prioritize monitoring. If attackers obtain an internal map, it may help them choose valuable targets and plan movement through an environment. Maps should therefore be treated as sensitive information, with access limited to people who need them and copies reviewed or removed when no longer necessary.