iwScanner
iwScanner: A focused, free Linux scanner for viewing nearby access points and signal strength. Ranked #29 of 29 in Wi-Fi Analyzer Software by our editors (6.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free lightweight Linux scanning.
At a glance
- Editor score6.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree lightweight Linux scanning
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Founded2008
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with a graphical Linux interface
- Shows AP, MAC, channel, encryption, and signal-strength details
- Supports NetDetect and NetStumbler file formats
Where it doesn't
- Linux-only availability limits cross-platform use
- Does not provide site surveys or network recommendations
- Lacks historical analysis and broader export features
Our verdict on iwScanner
iwScanner is a free, open-source Wi-Fi analyzer for Linux users who need a straightforward graphical scanner. It detects nearby wireless networks through wireless tools and iwlist, then presents access point, MAC address, channel, and encryption details. Signal-strength charts add a visual view of detected networks, while adjustable scanning speed gives users control over how the scan runs. Its focus is practical discovery rather than a broad network-planning suite.
The feature set is useful for lightweight inspection. Users can view nearby access points, compare signal levels through charts, and save or open NetDetect (.ndd) and NetStumbler (.ns1) files. The download options include Debian packages and generic Linux archives, making the product relevant to Linux environments with either of those installation paths. Compatibility with established wireless-scanning file formats may also help users work with existing scan records.
iwScanner remains narrow in scope. It does not offer site surveys, recommendations, or historical analysis, so it is not aimed at teams that need structured wireless planning or long-term reporting. The published product details also describe Linux downloads only, making platform fit an important consideration. iwScanner suits users who want a free graphical scanner with core access-point details, signal charts, adjustable scan speed, and basic file compatibility. Choose another tool if you need broader survey workflows, recommendations, historical views, or a non-Linux platform.
Your product? Our editors can test iwScanner in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
iwScanner pricing
iwScanner fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Site survey tools | Not verified |
| Spectrum analysis | Not verified |
| Channel recommendations | Not verified |
| Supported platforms | linux |
| Report export | Not verified |
| Historical analysis | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Linux |
| Support | |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | kuthulu.com |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to iwScanner
- NetSpotA cross-platform analyzer for inspection, surveys, planning, and Wi-Fi troubleshooting.9.4
- WiFi ScannerA deep Wi-Fi analysis suite for teams that need surveys, diagnostics, and exports.9.2
- TamoGraph Site SurveyA mature survey suite for teams that need measurement, modeling, and reporting.9.0
See all iwScanner alternatives →
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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