Free tools can help to significantly improve Wi-Fi performance. Improvements are often possible, especially in terms of complete coverage of the area of use, channel selection and transmission performance.
In this text, we show some tools specifically for WLANs that help to improve the performance in private and professional WLANs and to better distribute the WLAN access points so that the necessary area is covered as well as possible without the transmission ranges of the devices overlapping too much.
1. NetStumbler – Discovery and diagnosis of WLAN networks
NetStumbler is a free tool that makes it easy to identify Wi-Fi networks and check their configuration. It is ideal for quickly identifying networks with weak signals and can be used to diagnose connectivity problems in Wi-Fi networks. NetStumbler is particularly useful for administrators to take inventory in the field and for initial network diagnostics. Once started, it displays all Wi-Fi networks within range, including SSIDs, channels and connection values. This makes it easier to position access points.
private and professional WLANs and to better distribute the WLAN access points so that the necessary area is covered as well as possible without the transmission ranges of the devices overlapping too much.
2. WiFi Analyzer – Signal strength analysis under Windows
WiFi Analyzer, available in the Microsoft Store for Windows users, is an intuitive tool for analyzing WiFi channels. It helps identify the best channel for your WiFi network to avoid overlapping with other networks. This tool is particularly useful for improving network performance in environments with many overlapping networks. It is quickly installed from the Microsoft Store and can also be easily removed.
3. Kismet – Advanced Network Discovery and Monitoring
Kismet is an open source tool used for passive network discovery. It identifies hidden networks and non-standard SSIDs and is useful for security audits and for detecting potential intruders or sources of interference on the network. Administrators should use Kismet for in-depth monitoring and analysis of Wi-Fi security. Kismet is available for Windows, Linux and macOS and is also suitable for advanced Wi-Fi analysis.
4. Wi-Fi Scanner by LizardSystems – Comprehensive WLAN analysis
The Wi-Fi Scanner from LizardSystems provides detailed information about WLAN networks in the area. With its advanced filter and search functions, specific network problems can be efficiently identified. This tool is ideal for the detailed visualization of network properties and supports administrators in analyzing and optimizing the WLAN environment. The tool can be used free of charge for up to 10 days without restrictions.
5. Acrylic Wi-Fi Analyzer – Detailed Wi-Fi Scanner Software
Acrylic Wi-Fi Home is free for personal use and provides deep insights into the Wi-Fi landscape. It is useful for conducting a comprehensive analysis of Wi-Fi coverage and assessing security aspects. Administrators can use Acrylic Wi-Fi Analyzer to improve the security and performance of their network and to check and optimize signal quality.
6. Vistumbler – Visualization of WLAN networks
Vistumbler is an open source Wi-Fi scanner for Windows that collects detailed information about nearby networks. Vistumbler is useful for administrators who need a more in-depth investigation of the network environment – including detection of rogue access points .
7. TamoGraph Site Survey – Advanced Wi-Fi Site Surveys
TamoGraph Site Survey is a professional tool for detailed Wi-Fi site surveys and coverage map creation. It helps plan and optimize Wi-Fi networks to achieve optimal coverage and performance. For network administrators managing complex Wi-Fi infrastructures, TamoGraph provides valuable insights into signal strength distribution and potential sources of interference. The software is commercial and administrators should evaluate the cost-benefit ratio for their specific use cases. However, the tool can be tested free of charge.
8. Wi-Fi SweetSpots – Finding the optimal signal areas
Wi-Fi SweetSpots for iOS and Android helps identify the areas within a building that have the strongest Wi-Fi signal strength. This tool is especially useful for quickly identifying the best locations for workstations or Wi-Fi-enabled devices to ensure optimal network usage. It is a convenient solution for administrators who want to quickly and easily test the performance of their network in different locations.
9. Fing – Network scanner and security diagnostics
Fing is known for its powerful network scanning capabilities and offers comprehensive network security and monitoring services. It enables administrators to quickly identify unknown devices and minimize potential security risks. Fing is available in various licensing models, including a free basic version and advanced commercial options that offer additional functionality. Regular use of Fing can help increase network security and effectively prevent unwanted access. The tool can be used on iOS and Android.
10. CommView for WiFi – Comprehensive analysis of WiFi traffic
CommView for WiFi is a comprehensive tool for monitoring and analyzing WiFi traffic. It provides deep insights into network usage, helps identify network problems, and can be used to optimize network security. The software is commercial and administrators should familiarize themselves with the extensive features in order to fully exploit the potential of CommView for WiFi. It is particularly suitable for detailed traffic analysis and the detection of security threats. The tool can be tested free of charge. It can be installed on Windows and macOS.
11. SpeedTest by Ookla – Check your internet speed
SpeedTest by Ookla provides a fast and reliable way to measure Internet speed. This web tool is valuable for checking the actual bandwidth performance of a network. Administrators should use SpeedTest regularly to monitor the efficiency of the Internet connection and evaluate whether the speed provided meets the needs of the business. SpeedTest is free to use and provides an easy way for administrators to diagnose and fix connection problems. If the Internet performance gets worse, it also indicates a worse Wi-Fi connection.
12. WirelessNetView – Compact WLAN monitoring
WirelessNetView by NirSoft is a small, free, portable tool that provides administrators with a quick overview of all wireless networks in their area. It displays useful information such as SSID, signal strength and encryption type without requiring extensive installation. For network administrators looking for a lightweight and portable solution for monitoring wireless networks, WirelessNetView is an excellent choice. It is particularly suitable for quick diagnostics and checking network security. The tool displays all the important information that can be used to troubleshoot problems in wireless networks.
13. WiFiInfoView – WiFi information at a glance
WiFiInfoView is another free and portable tool from NirSoft that displays detailed information about nearby WiFi networks. It provides data such as SSID, MAC address, signal quality, frequency and more without the need for installation. For administrators who need a quick and straightforward way to check WiFi network characteristics, WiFiInfoView is an excellent choice. It is great for identifying network problems and optimizing WiFi configuration.
14. Wifinian – WiFi management for Windows
Wifinian is an open source tool for managing and automating Wi-Fi connections on Windows devices. The tool is available for Windows in the Microsoft App Store. It allows users to adjust the priority of networks, enable/disable connections, and monitor signal strength. Administrators looking for efficient management of Wi-Fi connections on Windows devices will find Wifinian a useful tool. The ability to quickly adjust network settings makes it particularly valuable for managing devices in dynamic network environments.
15. Bettercap – Conduct penetration tests
Bettercap is a powerful, versatile framework for network attacks and testing, including monitoring Wi-Fi networks. It is capable of performing a wide range of penetration tests while also providing network traffic monitoring and analysis capabilities. The solution can also be run as a Docker container.
16. WiGLE – WLAN mapping and network discovery
WiGLE stands for Wireless Geographic Logging Engine and is an online database that collects information about Wi-Fi networks worldwide. By using the WiGLE app, administrators can find networks in their area and use the data to analyze network distribution and density. WiGLE is particularly useful for mapping Wi-Fi networks and can help identify unsecured networks or plan the best placement for access points.
