Wireshark: The Ultimate Network Protocol Analyzer

Wireshark is a powerful tool for analyzing network traffic in real-time, making it ideal for network administrators and security professionals.
Comprehensive Network Traffic Analysis with Wireshark
Wireshark, developed by Gerald Combs, is a leading network protocol analyzer renowned for its powerful packet capturing and analysis features. Designed for network administrators, cybersecurity experts, and tech enthusiasts, Wireshark provides an extensive platform for monitoring, diagnosing, and securing network infrastructures.
Real-Time Packet Capture & Inspection
One of Wireshark's standout capabilities is its ability to capture network data packets in real-time across wired and wireless environments. Users can examine detailed packet information such as headers, payloads, protocol specifics, source and destination addresses, and timing metrics to gain deep insights into network behavior and identify performance bottlenecks or security threats.
Advanced Filtering & Search Functionality
Wireshark offers sophisticated filtering options to focus analysis on specific traffic. Users can apply display filters, protocol-based filters, or custom query parameters to isolate relevant packets—for example, by IP address, port number, protocol type, or error condition—streamlining troubleshooting and forensic investigations.
Extensive Protocol Support
The software supports an impressive array of protocols spanning LANs, WANs, internet traffic, VoIP calls, wireless networks, IoT devices, and more. This extensive compatibility enables users to analyze application layer protocols like HTTP and DNS, transport protocols such as TCP and UDP, as well as lower layers including Ethernet and Wi-Fi for comprehensive network diagnostics.
Insightful Statistics & Visualization Tools
- Traffic pattern graphs like I/O Graphs and Conversations Graphs
- Endpoint statistics and protocol hierarchy views
- Flow analysis diagrams including TCP stream graphs
- Customizable data visualization aids for easier interpretation of complex traffic data
Benefits of Using Wireshark
Wireshark empowers users to effectively capture and analyze network traffic, uncover security vulnerabilities, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and optimize performance. Its real-time monitoring combined with advanced filtering and extensive protocol support makes it an indispensable tool for maintaining robust network security and efficiency.
Overview
Wireshark is a Open Source software in the category Internet developed by Gerald Combs.
The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked Wireshark for updates 3,267 times during the last month.
The latest version of Wireshark is 4.4.7, released on 06/05/2025. It was initially added to our database on 08/24/2007. The most prevalent version is 4.4.6, which is used by 34% of all installations.
Wireshark runs on the following operating systems: Windows/Mac. The download file has a size of 83.3MB.
Users of Wireshark gave it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Pros
- Powerful network protocol analyzer
- Supports a wide range of network protocols
- Open-source software with a large community of users and developers
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- May be overwhelming for casual users due to the wealth of features
- Can consume significant system resources when analyzing large amounts of data
FAQ
What is Wireshark?
Wireshark is a free and open-source network protocol analyzer. It allows users to inspect and analyze network traffic in real-time or from stored capture files.
How do I install Wireshark?
You can download Wireshark from its official website for various operating systems. Once downloaded, run the installer and follow the instructions to install it on your computer.
How do I capture network traffic in Wireshark?
To capture network traffic using Wireshark, you need to select the interface that you want to capture from and click on the "Start" button. Then, Wireshark will start capturing packets on that interface.
What are some common display filters in Wireshark?
Some common display filters in Wireshark include filtering by IP address, TCP/UDP port, protocol type, and packet length.
How do I export packets from Wireshark?
To export packets from Wireshark, you can either save the capture file or choose a specific packet or packet range and export it to a file in various formats like CSV, TXT, or JSON.
What are some advanced features of Wireshark?
Some advanced features of Wireshark include decrypting SSL/TLS traffic, following network streams, saving filtered packets to a new file, and using various statistical tools to analyze network behavior.
Can Wireshark capture wireless network traffic?
Yes, Wireshark can capture wireless network traffic if you have a wireless card that supports promiscuous mode and monitor mode.
Is Wireshark legal to use?
Yes, Wireshark is legal to use as long as you comply with the laws and regulations of your country and avoid using it for illegal purposes like unauthorized network access or data interception.
How do I join the Wireshark community?
You can join the Wireshark community by subscribing to its mailing lists, participating in its forums, contributing to its source code or documentation, or attending its events like SharkFest.
Who are the creators of Wireshark?
Wireshark was created by Gerald Combs in 1998 under the name of "Ethereal" and later renamed to "Wireshark" due to trademark issues. It is now maintained by a team of active developers and contributors.

David Fischer
I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.
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