Sniffnet review
A free, open-source packet monitor with live capture and offline PCAP analysis.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Sniffnet is a free, open-source desktop application for monitoring and analyzing Internet traffic. It is aimed at beginners and professionals who want a simpler packet-monitoring workflow across Windows, macOS, and Linux. The application can capture live traffic from a selected physical or virtual network adapter, or analyze previously saved PCAP files. Its interface presents traffic statistics, real-time charts, hosts, domains, services, programs, and connection details.
The Free plan costs nothing and includes network traffic monitoring, PCAP import and export, and open-source software. The feature set extends beyond basic visibility: users can apply Berkeley Packet Filter expressions, import and export PCAP capture reports, inspect packet timestamps and address details, and review network host, domain, ASN, and geolocation information. Application and program traffic identification adds context, while custom notifications and IP blacklists support repeat monitoring workflows.
Sniffnet’s main appeal is breadth within a focused packet-monitoring tool: it combines live capture, offline analysis, reporting, charts, filtering expressions, and command-line controls without introducing paid tiers. That makes it a practical choice for users who want a cross-platform, open-source desktop application for straightforward traffic inspection and PCAP work. It is less suitable for buyers seeking AI-assisted analysis or a workflow centered on capture-file formats beyond PCAP. Choose Sniffnet for accessible monitoring across the three supported operating systems; look elsewhere when those capabilities are requirements.
Sniffnet pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Live and offline packet analysis across Windows, macOS, and Linux
- BPF expressions, connection inspection, charts, and traffic reports
- Free, open-source desktop software with PCAP import and export
- Where it doesn't
- PCAP is the listed capture-file format
- Live capture requires choosing a physical or virtual adapter
- No AI-assisted features are included
Sniffnet fact sheet, pricing and score →
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