The invention relates to a system and method called autotopology of a network or advertising based network management which enables the analysis and automatic graphical and hierarchical representation of any hierarchical or flat network topology, especially a switched Ethernet (SE). The autotopology can be used for self-configured networks (for example by using zeroconf) and for any otherwise configured networks, especially using DHCP or manually configured networks. The use of zeroconf is called autoconfiguration. Autoconfiguration and autotopology enable a comfortable and safe administration of a network. Administration of a self-configured network using the autotopology data proceeds in a separate and low-priority sub-network (link local) so that the productive operation of the network remains undisturbed. The topology of the network is used as a clear possibility of administering a network. Administration of the network is possible immediately after determination of the topology.