Dia

What Dia is

Dia is a free desktop program for creating structured diagrams on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It covers entity-relationship, UML, flowchart, and network diagrams, giving users tools for modeling data, software structures, processes, and connections. Existing work can be brought in through Dia XML (.dia) or Visio XML (.vdx) files. Completed diagrams can be exported as EPS, SVG, XFIG, WMF, or PNG. The project is released as free software under the GNU General Public License, version 2. The Windows package is Dia 0.97.2, offered in 60 languages at a listed 20 MB size, while the download page also provides Mac OS X and Linux packages. Release 0.97.2 is described as a maintenance and bug-fix update with 28 corrected bugs and added SADT colors. Windows installer 0.97.2-2 bundles updated base libraries and carries a digital signature. Dia is a dedicated desktop option for users whose diagram types and file formats fit these supported choices.

Who it suits

Dia suits people who need structured diagrams for data relationships, software design, processes, or networks. It is also suitable for users who want a free GPLv2 desktop application on Windows, macOS, or Linux.

Limits

Dia's listed plan is a free download for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. Import and export are limited to the formats provided by the application.

Getting started

1. Open the Dia website
2. Choose the Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux download
3. Install the desktop package
4. Create or import a diagram
5. Export finished work in a supported format

Verdict

Pick Dia if you need a free desktop diagrammer covering UML, flowcharts, networks, and entity relationships. Look elsewhere if you need a different platform or file-import route than those provided.