Wireshark

Open-source network protocol analyzer for packet analysis

Best for: Network engineers and security analysts doing packet-level analysis

Free plan

4.7/5Editorial score 92/100wireshark.org

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Editorial score92/100

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The editorial note

What to know about Wireshark

Wireshark is the world's most widely used network protocol analyzer — capturing and analyzing network traffic in real time with deep packet inspection for hundreds of protocols. Used by network engineers, security analysts, and developers to troubleshoot network issues, analyze protocols, detect intrusions, and verify network behavior. As a free, open-source tool maintained by a global community, Wireshark is the standard for packet-level network analysis in both educational and professional environments.

Is it right for you?

Who Wireshark suits

Choose it if

Network engineers and security analysts doing packet-level analysis

Look elsewhere if

Business users needing automated security monitoring

What you get

Key features

Packet capture
Protocol dissection
Color coding
Statistics
IO graphs
VoIP analysis

Works with

Integrations3

NmapTshark CLISecurity tools

The trade-off

Pros and cons

Pros

Free and open source
Industry standard
Deep packet inspection
Multi-platform

Cons

Complex interface
Requires network knowledge
Can capture sensitive data

Quick read

At a glance

Category: Cybersecurity & Privacy
Pricing model: Free
Free plan: Available
Free trial: Not listed
Website: wireshark.org

The verdict

Our take on Wireshark

Wireshark is indispensable for anyone doing serious network troubleshooting or security analysis.

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