Arkime
7.3#1 in digital forensics softwareFree planFree planWebAPILinuxSelf-hosted
VisitArkime vs PacketWatch
PacketWatch
5.4#18 in network packet capture softwareWebAPISelf-hosted
VisitWhat both publish
| Fact | Arkime | PacketWatch |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | The installation guide covers Linux, recommends Debian or Ubuntu LTS, and also links to a container installation guide. | The company describes its offering as a SaaS platform and lists self-service deployment under the Self-Managed package. |
| Integrations | Arkime uses OpenSearch or Elasticsearch for indexed metadata and offers WISE threat-intelligence integration. | PacketWatch describes CrowdStrike Falcon integration for endpoint telemetry and threat containment, and Validin integration for threat intelligence and DNS context. |
| Investigation | Users can search sessions, inspect packet data, and export search results as PCAP or CSV. | Users can filter and replay network activity retrospectively, build nested rules, and export packet captures as forensic evidence. |
| Packet capture | Arkime can store full packets in standard PCAP format or run as a metadata-only engine, with rules to select which traffic is saved. | Passive collectors capture full network packets, while the cloud platform analyzes packet metadata and the page says high-fidelity data is stored locally. |
Arkime plans
- ArkimeFree
PacketWatch plans
- Co-ManagedPriced on request
- Fully ManagedPriced on request
- Self-ManagedPriced on request
Pick Arkime if…
Arkime suits teams that need to search and inspect network sessions and can provide OpenSearch or Elasticsearch for metadata storage. It is designed for self-hosted use, with Linux installation guidance and a container guide.
Pick PacketWatch if…
PacketWatch is aimed at threat hunters and security teams investigating network activity, including in AWS or Azure environments. Its managed packages may suit organizations seeking analyst support, while Self-Managed is listed for self-service deployment.