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phpIPAM vs PureRef

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

phpIPAM icon
phpIPAM
PureRef icon
PureRef

phpIPAM vs PureRef: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

phpIPAM: phpIPAM is an open-source IP address management application. It allows administrators to manage IPv4 and IPv6 addresses, subnets, VLANs, and other network objects through a web interface. Useful for mid-size networks.

PureRef: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature phpIPAM PureRef
Sugggest Score
Category Network & Admin Photos & Graphics
Pricing Open Source Free

Product Overview

phpIPAM
phpIPAM

Description: phpIPAM is an open-source IP address management application. It allows administrators to manage IPv4 and IPv6 addresses, subnets, VLANs, and other network objects through a web interface. Useful for mid-size networks.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

PureRef
PureRef

Description: PureRef is a free, lightweight application for Windows that helps artists and designers quickly view visual references without cluttering their workspace. It's useful for keeping photos, drawings, webpages, etc. easily accessible while working on graphics, illustrations, presentations, documents, and more.

Type: software

Pricing: Free

Key Features Comparison

phpIPAM
phpIPAM Features
  • IP address management
  • Subnet management
  • VLAN management
  • DHCP server management
  • DNS server management
  • User and group management
  • REST API
PureRef
PureRef Features
  • Tabbed interface to organize references
  • Resizable panels
  • Zoom and pan images
  • Minimal UI
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • Search references
  • Fullscreen mode
  • Portable app
  • Dark mode

Pros & Cons Analysis

phpIPAM
phpIPAM

Pros

  • Open source
  • Easy to use web interface
  • Scales to mid-size networks
  • Integrates with LDAP/AD
  • REST API for automation

Cons

  • Lacks some features of commercial IPAM tools
  • Can be complex for very large networks
  • Limited native integrations
PureRef
PureRef

Pros

  • Lightweight and fast
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Easy to use
  • Good for quick reference viewing
  • Free with no ads or limitations

Cons

  • Limited features compared to full reference managers
  • No cloud sync
  • Windows only

Pricing Comparison

phpIPAM
phpIPAM
  • Open Source
PureRef
PureRef
  • Free

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