18.2
Fing Security checks routers for vulnerabilities, scans open ports, and detects network threats automatically and continuously.
Free planAndroidiOSWeb
Best Network Troubleshooting Software in 2026
Network troubleshooting software helps inspect traffic, trace paths and diagnose problems across networks. The list covers tools that run on Windows, Linux, the web, macOS, self-hosted systems or through an API. Check Android support before choosing a tool for a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone or tablet: Android is not among the platform notes here. Compare packet capture, path analysis, deployment method and device…
28.2
PingPlotter monitors network performance continuously, tracking latency, jitter, and packet loss while showing network paths to help locate connection problems.
Free planiOSWebAPI
37.5
Wireshark is a free, open-source network protocol analyzer for capturing and examining network traffic.
Free planOpen sourceAPILinuxmacOS
- 4
Colasoft Capsa
Colasoft Capsa is a Windows network analyzer for monitoring, analyzing, and troubleshooting wired and wireless networks.
Free planWindows7.4$295 one-time - 5
Nmap
Nmap is a free, open-source utility for discovering networks and auditing security.
Free planLinuxmacOSSelf-hostedWindows7.0From $9,980 a month - 6
CommView
CommView is a Windows packet sniffer, network monitor, and protocol analyzer for wired networks.
Windows6.4From $149 a year - 7
NetScanTools Pro
Windows6.3$299 one-time - 8
tcpdump
tcpdump is a free tool for network monitoring and data acquisition.
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows6.2Free plan - 9
perfSONAR
perfSONAR is a free, open-source network measurement toolkit for examining performance across network paths and helping identify problems as they occur.
Free planAPILinuxSelf-hosted6.1Free plan - 10
SystemTrayMenu
SystemTrayMenu is a free, open-source Windows toolbar and Start Menu alternative for browsing and opening files.
Free planWindows6.1Free plan - 11
Omnipeek
Omnipeek is LiveAction’s Windows network protocol analyzer for examining packet data during investigations of network performance, application…
WebWindows5.9 - 12
VisualRoute
WebWindows5.9 - 13
5.4 - 14
NetWatch
LinuxmacOSWindows4.7 - 15
Network Doctor
LinuxmacOSWindows4.7 - 164.7
- 174.6
- 184.3
Choosing well
Match the platform to your setup
The platform notes cover Windows, Linux, web, macOS, self-hosted systems and APIs. A web or self-hosted deployment may suit a team, while a desktop platform may fit local analysis.
If you plan to work from an Android phone or tablet, confirm Android availability directly before choosing.
Compare the diagnostic functions
Use packet capture when you need to inspect network traffic. Path analysis is useful when you need to follow a route and locate a connection problem.
The comparison also includes deployment and device limit, so check those fields against the network you need to manage.
Check plans and trial terms
Free plans are available in this category, while paid options may list a starting price or pricing on request. A free trial can help you assess a paid tool before buying.
For example, Colasoft Capsa lists a free plan, a 30-day trial and a paid plan from $695; NetScanTools Pro lists a 14-day trial and starts at $299.
Review code and deployment needs
Open-source software is available, including perfSONAR. If you need to read or change the code, check the tool's licence and deployment requirements before adopting it.
Self-hosted and API options can require more setup than a hosted web interface, so match the operating model to your team.
Questions people ask
Can I use a free network troubleshooting tool?
Yes. The category includes free plans, including free software and open-source options. Check the listed plan terms for the tool you want.
Which comparison fields matter most?
Compare packet capture, path analysis, deployment, supported platforms and device limit. Pricing and free-plan details also help narrow the choice.
Are there open-source options?
Yes. Open-source code is offered by tools in this category; perfSONAR is listed as open source. Review the licence and deployment requirements before use.
Do paid tools offer trials?
Trial terms vary. Colasoft Capsa lists a 30-day trial and NetScanTools Pro a 14-day trial; other paid tools list pricing on request.