Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

LinSSID VS Kismet

Compare LinSSID VS Kismet and see what are their differences

LinSSID logo LinSSID

Download LinSSID for free. Graphical wireless scanning for Linux. LinSSID is graphically and functionally similar to Inssider (Microsoft™ Windows®). It is written in C++ using Linux NL80211 tools, Qt5, and Qwt 6.1.

Kismet logo Kismet

Kismet is an 802.11 layer2 wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection system.
  • LinSSID Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-08-04
  • Kismet Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-12-24

LinSSID features and specs

No features have been listed yet.

Kismet features and specs

  • Open Source
    Kismet is open-source software, allowing users to examine the source code, customize the tool according to their needs, and contribute to its development.
  • Platform Compatibility
    Kismet works on various platforms, including Linux, macOS, and Windows (through WSL), making it versatile and accessible to a wide range of users.
  • Wireless Network Detection
    Kismet can detect and capture traffic from a variety of wireless networks (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), making it useful for network monitoring and security auditing.
  • Passive Sniffing
    Kismet is capable of passive sniffing, allowing it to detect networks and devices without emitting any signals that might alert the target.
  • Extensive Plugin Support
    Kismet supports plugins and external tools, enabling users to extend its functionality and integrate it with other network security tools.

Possible disadvantages of Kismet

  • Steep Learning Curve
    Kismet can be complex to set up and use, particularly for those who are not familiar with networking and wireless security concepts.
  • Limited Windows Support
    While Kismet can be used on Windows via the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), it is primarily designed for Unix-based systems, which may limit its usability on Windows.
  • Hardware Dependency
    Kismet requires compatible wireless network adapters to function properly, which might necessitate additional hardware purchases.
  • Potential Legal Issues
    Using Kismet for unauthorized network monitoring can be illegal in many jurisdictions. Users must ensure they have permission to monitor the networks they are testing.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running Kismet can be resource-intensive, particularly on devices with limited processing power or memory, potentially affecting system performance.

Analysis of Kismet

Overall verdict

  • Yes, Kismet (kismetwireless.net) is generally considered a good tool for network monitoring and wireless security auditing.

Why this product is good

  • Open source
    Kismet is an open-source tool, which means it's freely available and can be modified to suit specific needs.
  • Community support
    The tool has a robust community and support base, ensuring regular updates and improvements.
  • Comprehensive features
    It offers a wide range of features for wireless network monitoring, including packet sniffing, device tracking, and intrusion detection.
  • Multi-platform support
    Kismet is compatible with multiple platforms, including Linux, macOS, and Windows, making it accessible to a broad range of users.

Recommended for

  • Network administrators
  • Security professionals
  • Wireless network enthusiasts
  • Penetration testers

LinSSID videos

Use linSSID to figure out the right channel for your wireless network

More videos:

  • Review - LinSSID, scanneur réseau wifi

Kismet videos

KISMET PURE VITAMIN C PRIMER REVIEW

More videos:

  • Review - Kismet - 2 Minute Review
  • Review - Newton Kismet Main Review

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to LinSSID and Kismet)
Log Management
20 20%
80% 80
Monitoring Tools
13 13%
87% 87
Network & Admin
16 16%
84% 84
CD Image Creator
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare LinSSID and Kismet

LinSSID Reviews

We have no reviews of LinSSID yet.
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Kismet Reviews

5 Best Wireshark alternative packet sniffers
Kismet’s data collector doesn’t probe networks like other packet sniffers, so intrusion detection systems can’t spot its activities. This makes it a powerful tool for hackers who have access to a computer that is connected to the network. Standard network monitoring systems will spot the presence of the device on which Kismet is running, but won’t see that the program is...

What are some alternatives?

When comparing LinSSID and Kismet, you can also consider the following products

NetSpot - NetSpot is a free app for wireless site surveys, Wi-Fi analysis, and troubleshooting

Vistumbler - Vistumbler is a wireless network scanner for Windows Vista and Windows 7. Features:

sparrow-wifi - Next-Gen GUI-based WiFi and Bluetooth Analyzer for Linux

Homedale - With Homedale you can search for Wi-Fi / WLAN Access Points and monitor their signal strength.

Acrylic Wifi - Acrylic WiFi is a free to use WiFi scanning and channel scanning tool for the Windows operating devices only.

inSSIDer - inSSIDer Essential makes it easy to maintain small business WiFi.