LFT (Layer Four Traceroute) is a sort of "traceroute" that often works much faster than the commonly-used Van Jacobson method and goes through many configurations of packet-filter based firewalls. More importantly, LFT implements numerous other features, including TCP, UDP, and ICMP trace methods, AS number lookups through several reliable sources, loose source routing, netblock name lookups, and more. LFT also distinguishes between TCP-based protocols, which make its statistics slightly more realistic, and gives a savvy user the ability to trace protocol routes, not just layer-3 hops. Also includes WhoB, a whois client designed specifically for network engineers.
Very fast results. It does have different results depending on the arguments.
Cons
Command arguments hard to discern. Can't tell what options are needed in a given situation.
Summary
Useful tool for network diagnostics when traceroute doesn't give you what you need.
Saves much time and effort for network investigations.
vtrack11
Pros
Well documented, comes as source package, clean install on multiple platforms (Linux, *nix, Windows native and Windows/Cygwin). I have done the install on Snow Leopard and FreeBSD 8.1 without issues.
Cons
Nothing noted yet.
Summary
If you don't quite understand what this package is, you most likely do not need it. If you do, you will find it a handy tool.
Best total replacement for traceroute
jamesnatty
Pros
Cons
Summary
This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />This is the best total replacement for traceroute I've found. There are other options, notably tcptraceroute, but LFT doesn't make you choose between tracing protocols.. You can use TCP or UDP. You can manipulate protocol state and set every knob and lever you'd ever want. Plus, it's the only one available with integration of whois sources for routing information instead of just integrating registrar lookups. If you're looking for a flexible traceroute replacement that does it all, look no further. I've used this for years and it keeps getting better.
I also noticed the author has a graphical version for Windows and Mac OS X called Path Analyzer Pro. I haven't checked it out yet, but I will.
Frank Nospam
Pros
Cons
Summary
This review was originally posted on VersionTracker.com.<br />Note that this is actually a Darwin (command line) utility, not an OS X app. Also, it needs access to /dev/bpf0 (via chmod or sudo).