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Hazel Networking

Free#26 of 29 in Game Networking Middleware

Hazel Networking: A focused, low-level option for basic C# network communications. Ranked #26 of 29 in Game Networking Middleware by our editors (6.4/10); pricing: Open source; best for basic C# network communications.

6.4/10Editor score

Try Hazel Networking

Hazel Networking6.4 Try Hazel Networking

At a glance

Editor score
6.4 / 10
Pricing
Open source
Best for
Basic C# network communications
Paid from
Free
Facts checked
21 Sep 2026

Where it wins
- Supports TCP, UDP and reliable UDP communication
- Thread-safe, message-based interface across protocols
- Includes IPv4, IPv6 and automatic traffic statistics
Where it doesn't
- The published repository says this version is no longer supported
- Low-level library without verified game-specific services
- Limited platform breadth beyond its C# networking focus

Our verdict on Hazel Networking

Hazel Networking is a low-level, open-source C# library for connection-oriented, message-based communication. It is intended for developers who need a lightweight networking layer with support for TCP, UDP and reliable UDP, rather than a complete game networking service. A common interface across supported protocols makes it suitable for basic C# communications where transport flexibility and direct control matter.

The library's main strength is its focused protocol and connection model. It provides interchangeable protocol implementations, thread-safe operation, IPv4 and IPv6 support, and automatic connection traffic statistics. This gives developers a consistent interface while retaining access to multiple transport options. The published project can be built from its Visual Studio solution, and the original repository is distributed under the MIT License.

Hazel Networking is a practical fit for teams looking for an open-source foundation for basic C# network communications. Its scope is narrower than a broader game networking stack: the available product details cover transport and messaging capabilities, but do not establish game-specific services or wider platform support. The repository also states that this version is no longer supported and directs developers to a separate fork for the latest Hazel implementation. Choose it when a focused library suits the project; consider an alternative when ongoing support, game-specific features or broader ecosystem coverage are central requirements.

Your product? Our editors can test Hazel Networking in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Hazel Networking pricing

Plans Open sourceFree Free to use — no paid tier required for the core job.

See plans on github.com

Hazel Networking fact sheet

Free plan	Not verified
Paid from	Free
Network model	Not verified
Supported platforms	Not verified
Matchmaking	Not verified
Rollback netcode	Not verified
Max players per session	Not verified
Transport protocols	TCP, UDP, RUDP
Support	Email, Community, Docs
Built for	Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate)
Pricing	Open source
Website	github.com
Facts checked	21 Sep 2026

Alternatives to Hazel Networking

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Featured on iTechGuides

Hazel Networking is listed in our Game Networking Middleware directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update