Ethereal - Network Protocol Analyzer for Windows

Used Ethereal - Network Protocol Analyzer for Windows?

Ethereal - Network Protocol Analyzer Analysis

AI Assisted Content · June 11, 2026

Not written by CNET Staff.

Ethereal is a robust, free network protocol analyzer designed for Windows platforms. This utility allows users to capture and interactively browse the traffic running on a computer network. It supports a variety of protocols, enabling in-depth analysis of network packets. With its rich feature set, Ethereal is suitable for network troubleshooting, analysis, software and communications protocol development, and education. The program’s user-friendly interface aids users in visualizing complex data, making it accessible for both novices and experts in network analysis.

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Trial version

Ethereal is compatible with Windows 98 and earlier versions, ensuring a wide range of usability for legacy systems. The software is lightweight, requiring minimal storage compared to other networking tools, which enhances its appeal for users with limited resources. The program has been widely adopted in regions such as China, India, and the United States, underscoring its international relevance and utility in various networking environments.

Ethereal - Network Protocol Analyzer for Windows

Used Ethereal - Network Protocol Analyzer for Windows?

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Full Specifications

GENERAL

Release: May 5, 2006

Latest update: June 11, 2026

Version: 0.99

OPERATING SYSTEMS

Platform: Windows

Operating System

Windows 2000
Windows 10
Windows XP

Additional Requirements: Windows 2000/XP/2003 Server

POPULARITY

Total Downloads: 193,778

Downloads Last Week: 2

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Last Updated

User Reviews

4.1/5

9 User Votes

download.com put a malware payload in this product
digitalagentJuly 24, 2013
Pros
Product works great
Cons
Loaded with malware. Don't install unless you want nice bit of malware on your machine.
Summary
The network monitor
WingedpreditorOctober 27, 2011
Pros
I monitor networks every day and this is the best tool that I have used. If you havent used this on please give it a try.
Cons
Needs an advanced tutorial with videos and interactive training.
Summary
Wonderful product keep up the good work.
Replaced by Wireshark
OwynAugust 17, 2009
Pros
Works but...
Cons
This version is obsolete
Summary
"The current stable release of Wireshark is 1.2.1. It supersedes all previous releases, including all releases of Ethereal. You can also download the latest development release (1.1.3) and documentation. "
great product
billysboutinNovember 9, 2008
Pros
all traffic to and from macine. all broadcast traffic in LAN. Colors identify type of traffic.
Cons
none that matter
Summary
get it
works every time
ralpharAugust 13, 2008
Pros
Does the job I need it to do: see what's happening on my network. Works well.
Cons
Summary
jdjjdjd
ramiro_cuadrosMay 26, 2008
Pros
hshshhs
Cons
hhdhdhdhdhdh
Summary
Great sniffer
Code JunkieNovember 16, 2007
Pros
This is a fundamental sniffer that can capture live raw data in several protocols. Nice filter and file capturing abilities. Basic and easy to use.
Cons
Summary
See network traffic
pentium4foreverJune 23, 2007
Pros
This is a really sweet program. It allows you to see real-time packet events and such. A great learning tool.
Cons
Summary
Its free, but I think there are better alternatives.
CableguyTKFebruary 2, 2006
Pros
Its free. <p>Associated with a good name...AirSnare includes Ethereal in its installer here on Download.com.
Cons
The program is using the same code base as GAIM, gtk, and it looks it. Requires a LOT of files to be installed for use, just because of the nature of the code. <p>You aren't getting the nice XP look and feel that you would get with other free Packet Sniffers such as WhatIsTranferring? and EtherSnoop.
Summary

Developer’s Description

By Ethereal Software

Analyze and fix protocols.

Ethereal is used by network professionals around the world for troubleshooting, analysis, software and protocol development, and education. It has all of the standard features you would expect in a protocol analyzer.