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Wireshark

● Identity checked

Developer tools · Vendor site 2026-10-04

Wireshark is a free, open-source network protocol analyzer for capturing and interactively inspecting traffic on computer networks. The project site provides downloads, documentation, sample captures, certification programs, and community support resources.

Updated 2026-10-04View sources
Official website
Category
Developer tools
Free access
Wireshark.org offers free downloads and learning resources without a paid analyzer license on the homepage.
API access
Not confirmed

Is Wireshark right for you?

A good fit for

Network engineers and developers troubleshooting protocol behavior with deep packet inspection.

Before you choose

Capturing traffic may require OS permissions and acceptable use policies on the networks you monitor.

Network protocol analyzer

Wireshark.org hosts the leading open-source packet capture tool with docs, certifications, and community events for deep network diagnostics.

What it can do

Features & capabilities

Unknown is different from unavailable. Each fact carries its own evidence.

CapabilityValueEvidenceChecked
Analyzer roleHomepage defines Wireshark as a network protocol analyzer for interactive traffic capture and inspection.Facts sourced2026-10-04
AdoptionSite cites tens of millions of annual downloads and a large contributor community.Facts sourced2026-10-04
Learning resourcesNavigation links documentation, sample captures, certifications, and SharkFest training events.Facts sourced2026-10-04

Understand the total cost

Wireshark pricing & plans

Free

Free

Wireshark.org offers free downloads and learning resources without a paid analyzer license on the homepage.

Access
Wireshark.org offers free downloads and learning resources without a paid analyzer license on the homepage.
Explore pricing & history

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The practical questions

Frequently asked questions

What is Wireshark used for?

Wireshark is a free, open-source network protocol analyzer for capturing and interactively inspecting traffic on computer networks. The project site provides downloads, documentation, sample captures, certification programs, and community support resources.

Does Wireshark have a free plan?

Wireshark.org offers free downloads and learning resources without a paid analyzer license on the homepage.. This record lists ongoing free access; check the plan limits before starting.

How much does Wireshark cost?

No paid monthly price is listed; this record treats the product as free to start. See the plan cards for entitlements, billing commitments and seat minimums.

Can I use Wireshark through an API?

Not confirmed. API access and subscription access may have different terms; consult the linked sources.

What should I check before choosing it?

Capturing traffic may require OS permissions and acceptable use policies on the networks you monitor.

Price history

No retained pricing changes yet. A current price alone does not establish a historical trend.

How this profile is supported

Facts apply to the named version and check date. Send a sourced correction if something changed.