Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

NetSpeedMonitor VS AFWall+

Compare NetSpeedMonitor VS AFWall+ and see what are their differences

NetSpeedMonitor logo NetSpeedMonitor

NetSpeedMonitor is a lightweight Network Monitoring Toolbar for your Windows Taskbar

AFWall+ logo AFWall+

AFWall+ (Android Firewall +) - iptables based firewall for Android
  • NetSpeedMonitor Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-04-30
  • AFWall+ Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-02

NetSpeedMonitor features and specs

  • Lightweight
    NetSpeedMonitor is a lightweight application that does not consume significant system resources, making it suitable for use on older or less powerful computers.
  • Ease of Use
    The software features a straightforward and intuitive user interface, allowing users to easily monitor their network speeds without a steep learning curve.
  • Real-Time Monitoring
    NetSpeedMonitor provides real-time data on both download and upload speeds, helping users keep track of their web traffic instantly.
  • Taskbar Integration
    The tool integrates smoothly into the Windows taskbar, providing constant access and visibility without requiring users to open a separate application window.
  • Logging Capabilities
    NetSpeedMonitor offers logging features that record data usage over time, enabling users to analyze their network performance and bandwidth usage.
  • Compatibility
    The software is compatible with multiple versions of Windows, including Windows XP, Vista, and 7.

Possible disadvantages of NetSpeedMonitor

  • Limited OS Support
    NetSpeedMonitor does not officially support newer versions of Windows, such as Windows 8, 8.1, or 10, which may result in compatibility issues or the need for workarounds.
  • Old Interface
    The user interface looks outdated compared to modern applications, which may not appeal to users who prefer a more polished and contemporary design.
  • No Advanced Features
    While adequate for basic network monitoring, NetSpeedMonitor lacks advanced features like detailed analytics, IP address tracking, or protocol-specific monitoring, which may be required by power users.
  • No Active Development
    The software is no longer under active development or support, meaning no new features or updates are being released to address emerging needs or security vulnerabilities.
  • Installation Challenges
    Users may face difficulties during installation on newer operating systems, as the software might require compatibility mode settings or additional tweaks to run properly.

AFWall+ features and specs

  • Enhanced Privacy
    AFWall+ provides users with the ability to restrict internet access for individual apps, ensuring that no unnecessary data is sent out without the user's consent.
  • User Control
    It allows users to have full control over which apps can access Wi-Fi, mobile data, or both, enhancing overall control over data consumption.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source software, AFWall+ is transparent about its functionality, enabling users and developers to review the code for security and trustworthiness.
  • Customizability
    The app offers extensive customization options, allowing advanced users to tailor their firewall configurations to their specific needs.
  • Battery Saving
    By controlling which apps can use data and when, AFWall+ can contribute to reduced background data usage and improved battery life.

Possible disadvantages of AFWall+

  • Root Requirement
    AFWall+ requires root access on the device, which can discourage non-technical users and potentially void device warranties.
  • Complexity
    The app can be complex for non-technical users to configure properly, potentially leading to misconfigurations that could block essential app functions.
  • Potential for Misconfiguration
    Incorrectly setting app permissions could result in apps losing necessary connectivity, impacting their functionality and user experience.
  • OS Compatibility
    AFWall+ may face compatibility issues with certain Android versions or custom ROMs, limiting its usability for some users.
  • Lack of Mainstream Support
    As a third-party app, it may not receive the same level of support or frequent updates as more mainstream solutions.

Analysis of NetSpeedMonitor

Overall verdict

  • NetSpeedMonitor is a good tool for those who want a simple and effective way to monitor their internet speed. Despite being an older application, it remains relevant due to its efficiency and ease of use. However, users should note that official support for newer Windows versions might be limited, and alternative solutions may be needed for specific configurations.

Why this product is good

  • NetSpeedMonitor is a lightweight and easy-to-use application designed for Windows users who need to monitor their internet speed. It's praised for its simplicity, minimal resource usage, and the ability to provide real-time upload and download stats directly from the taskbar. The application supports a wide range of Windows versions, integrates seamlessly, and provides accurate data, making it a favorite among users who prefer straightforward software without unnecessary bloat.

Recommended for

    NetSpeedMonitor is recommended for Windows users who desire a no-frills method to keep an eye on their internet connection speed. It's particularly suitable for users running older Windows systems or those who prefer lightweight applications that don't consume a lot of system resources. It’s ideal for individuals who want a quick and easy way to monitor network activity without needing advanced networking features.

NetSpeedMonitor videos

NetSpeedMonitor for Windows 7 Demo

AFWall+ videos

Optimize Your Android - Control app connectivity with AFWall+

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to NetSpeedMonitor and AFWall+)
Monitoring Tools
73 73%
27% 27
Network Monitoring
84 84%
16% 16
Security & Privacy
0 0%
100% 100
Cyber Security
78 78%
22% 22

User comments

Share your experience with using NetSpeedMonitor and AFWall+. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, AFWall+ seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 7 times since March 2021. 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.

NetSpeedMonitor mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of NetSpeedMonitor yet. Tracking of NetSpeedMonitor recommendations started around Mar 2021.

AFWall+ mentions (7)

  • F-Droid, Keyboard Libraries, and Choosing a Browser
    I considered what many others have done: installing Gboard and using Graphene's settings to deny it network access, potentially even going the extra step of using a root firewall like AFWall (something I plan on looking into later regardless) but I was curious to see if I could do without. - Source: dev.to / over 1 year ago
  • Is it possible to route all traffic through tor on LineageOS?
    AFWall+ can also do that. It needs root though. Source: over 2 years ago
  • AfWall needs new developer. Someone please fork it.
    Https://github.com/ukanth/afwall/ It is a IPtables frontend but it is not updated often, last update was on May 21, 2021. Source: about 3 years ago
  • PrivacyGuides on Afwall+ and rooting.
    "Android Firewall+ (AFWall+) is an advanced iptables editor (GUI) for Android. It provides fine-grained control over which Android apps are Allowed to access the network." https://github.com/ukanth/afwall. Source: over 3 years ago
  • How to block a (local) IP address?
    Can I block using iptables on Android (I'm rooted)? Source: over 3 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing NetSpeedMonitor and AFWall+, you can also consider the following products

TrafficMonitor - TrafficMonitor is a network monitoring suspension window software in Windows.

NetGuard - NetGuard

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

NoRoot Firewall - Firewall WITHOUT ROOT.

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

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