Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

NetBalancer VS Portmaster

Compare NetBalancer VS Portmaster and see what are their differences

NetBalancer logo NetBalancer

NetBalancer is a Windows application for local network traffic control and monitoring.

Portmaster logo Portmaster

Is a Privacy Modular Privacy App which includes a "DNS over TLS" feature as well as an "Application Firewall".
  • NetBalancer Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-03-31
  • Portmaster Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-06-21

NetBalancer features and specs

  • Traffic Control
    Enables users to set download and upload network priority or limit for any process, offering precise control over bandwidth allocation.
  • Comprehensive Monitoring
    Provides detailed information and statistics on network usage by applications, helping users monitor and analyze network traffic effectively.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Features an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface that simplifies the process of managing network resources, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users.
  • Customizable Rules
    Allows users to create custom rules and filters to automate network management specific to their needs, enhancing flexibility and control.
  • Multiple Network Adapter Support
    Supports multiple network adapters and connections, allowing users to manage different network interfaces from a single platform.

Possible disadvantages of NetBalancer

  • Limited Free Version
    The free version of NetBalancer offers limited features and functionalities, requiring a paid license to unlock its full capabilities.
  • Learning Curve
    Although the interface is user-friendly, new users might face a learning curve in understanding all the features and effectively configuring advanced settings.
  • System Resource Usage
    Running NetBalancer can consume considerable system resources, which might affect system performance, particularly on lower-end devices.
  • Windows-Only
    The software is only available for Windows operating systems, limiting its usage for users with Mac or Linux systems.
  • Lack of Cloud Integration
    NetBalancer lacks integration with cloud-based services, which might be a drawback for users wishing to manage multiple devices remotely.

Portmaster features and specs

  • Enhanced Privacy
    Portmaster offers comprehensive network monitoring and filtering, giving users control over data leaving their devices, therefore enhancing privacy by minimizing data leaks.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software features an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible even for users who are not technically inclined.
  • Open Source
    Portmaster is open-source, which means its code is publicly available for scrutiny, helping to build trust through transparency and community contributions.
  • Customizable
    Users have the ability to customize settings and filters according to their needs, allowing for a personalized security and privacy configuration.
  • Real-Time Protection
    Provides real-time monitoring and protection, ensuring that users are alerted to and can block unwanted connections as they occur.

Possible disadvantages of Portmaster

  • Potential System Impact
    Depending on system specifications and usage, the software may cause noticeable performance impacts due to its real-time monitoring capabilities.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its user-friendly interface, there is still a learning curve associated with understanding and effectively utilizing all features, particularly for non-tech-savvy users.
  • Limited Support Resources
    While it has community support, users may find professional support options limited compared to established commercial solutions.
  • Compatibility
    There may be compatibility issues with certain operating systems or network configurations, requiring additional troubleshooting.
  • False Positives
    As with many security solutions, there is a risk of false positives where legitimate connections are mistakenly blocked, potentially disrupting certain services.

Analysis of NetBalancer

Overall verdict

  • NetBalancer is generally considered a good tool for those needing detailed network management and traffic control. Its features are well-received by users who require fine-grained control over their network usage. However, some users might find it too advanced for simple needs.

Why this product is good

  • NetBalancer is a network traffic control and monitoring tool that allows users to manage their internet bandwidth with ease. Users appreciate its ability to prioritize certain applications, monitor real-time data, and set bandwidth limits. The software's intuitive interface and robust functionality make it a popular choice for both personal and professional use.

Recommended for

    Individuals or businesses needing to manage and monitor network traffic effectively. It's suitable for IT professionals, network administrators, and users with multiple applications or devices that need specific bandwidth allocations.

Analysis of Portmaster

Overall verdict

  • Portmaster is a good choice for individuals looking for a robust, privacy-focused network monitoring tool. Its open-source nature and user-centric design make it a reliable option for enhancing digital privacy and security.

Why this product is good

  • Portmaster is an open-source network monitoring and firewall tool developed by Safing. It provides users with the ability to monitor and control their network traffic, enhancing privacy and security. The application is user-friendly and offers features such as automatic profile-based configuration, DNS encryption, and the ability to block specific domains or services. As it is open-source, users can review its source code, ensuring greater transparency and trust.

Recommended for

    Portmaster is recommended for privacy-conscious users, tech enthusiasts interested in open-source software, people looking to enhance their network security, and anyone wanting greater control over their network traffic. It's suitable for both individuals and small organizations seeking to improve their digital privacy without requiring extensive technical expertise.

NetBalancer videos

NetBalancer 9.15.3.2276 Lifetime Activation Code

More videos:

  • Review - Block Programs for Using Internet With NetBalancer 9.4.1 Unlimited trial
  • Tutorial - NetBalancer, how to use, monitor all your internet data through NetBalancer

Portmaster videos

The Portmaster is Out in Pre-Alpha! - Progress Update #3

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to NetBalancer and Portmaster)
Monitoring Tools
50 50%
50% 50
Network Monitoring
100 100%
0% 0
Security & Privacy
0 0%
100% 100
Exception Monitoring
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Portmaster seems to be a lot more popular than NetBalancer. While we know about 59 links to Portmaster, we've tracked only 2 mentions of NetBalancer. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

NetBalancer mentions (2)

  • Is there "something" for the cinnamon desktop environment that shows total download speed?
    On windows I have installed a program called NetBalancer. The paid version allows you to limit bandwidth usage of any application. With the free version all you can do is monitor, but I found it very useful. I could at least know why sometimes my internet was slow, most of the time was because windows was updating, or another application. Source: about 4 years ago
  • I am a fully-synced Dogecoin Node: How can I focus my uploads towards others here who want to also be a Dogecoin Node?
    I am going to be playing around with a couple different tools such as Net Balancer that I found and see which one is the easiest to use. This way Ill be able to stay connected 100% of the time and not have to disable my Dogecoin Core network to upload a large file of my own. Source: over 4 years ago

Portmaster mentions (59)

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing NetBalancer and Portmaster, you can also consider the following products

NetLimiter - NetLimiter is an ultimate Internet traffic control and monitoring tool designed for Windows.

TinyWall - Lightweight and non-intrusive firewall

FreeMeter - Monitor network bandwidth (C#.NET 2k/XP+). Desktop and Systray graph.

simplewall - Simple tool to configure Windows Filtering Platform (WFP) which can configure network activity on...

Network Lights - Network Lights is a Windows program, which blinks keyboard LEDs (Light Emitting Diode) indicating outgoing and incoming network packets on network interface.

GlassWire - Visualize network activity in detail, get notified when new apps access the network, look out for...