Top CloudShark Alternatives for Network Analysis and Packet Capture
CloudShark is a powerful web-based platform designed for viewing, analyzing, and sharing packet capture files directly in your browser, even on mobile devices like the Safari browser for iPad and iPhone. While CloudShark offers excellent functionality for network professionals, there are many reasons why you might be looking for a CloudShark alternative. Perhaps you need different features, prefer an open-source solution, or are seeking a tool with a specific platform compatibility. This article explores some of the best alternatives available for your network analysis and packet capture needs.
Best CloudShark Alternatives
Whether you're a seasoned network engineer or just starting out, the right tool can make all the difference in understanding and troubleshooting network traffic. Here are some top contenders that offer similar, or even enhanced, capabilities compared to CloudShark:
Wireshark
Wireshark is widely considered the world's foremost network protocol analyzer and an excellent CloudShark alternative. It's a free and open-source tool available across multiple platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, and BSD. Wireshark excels in detailed packet analysis, offering features like support for Android Things, comprehensive network monitoring, network usage history, and robust sniffer capabilities. Its interactive browsing of network traffic makes it indispensable for deep-dive analysis.
NetworkMiner
NetworkMiner is a Network Forensic Analysis Tool (NFAT) for Windows that also runs on Mac and Linux through Mono. As a free and open-source CloudShark alternative, it's particularly strong in parsing PCAP files to regenerate and reassemble transmitted files and certificates. Its features include network monitoring and sniffer capabilities, making it a valuable tool for incident response and forensic analysis. It's also portable, adding to its convenience.
PacketSled
PacketSled offers next-generation network forensics and breach detection, serving as a powerful Freemium CloudShark alternative. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and as a web-based platform, it focuses on continuously monitoring for advanced threats and policy violations that might be missed by other defenses. Its key features include continuous monitoring and network monitoring, providing robust security insights.
apptalk.ninja
apptalk.ninja is a communication diagnostics tool for app and device developers, making it a unique Freemium CloudShark alternative particularly for mobile debugging. Available for iPhone and iPad, this Software as a Service (SaaS) solution monitors HTTP, BLE, and iBeacon communication over-the-air. Its focus on network monitoring for better bug tracking and QA makes it ideal for mobile app development teams.
Mojo Packets
Mojo Packets™ is a web-based tool that simplifies trace-based analysis and troubleshooting of connectivity and performance issues, especially in Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11) environments. As a free CloudShark alternative accessible on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it integrates well with Wireshark. Its primary features include specialized network tools and visual analysis capabilities, making complex Wi-Fi diagnostics more intuitive.
Appknox
Appknox is a mobile app security testing solution that identifies and fixes vulnerabilities. While not a direct packet capture tool like CloudShark, it serves as a Commercial SaaS CloudShark alternative for those focused on the security implications of mobile app network interactions. Available as a web-based and self-hosted solution, Appknox offers features such as API scanning, static analysis, vulnerability scanning, and penetration testing for comprehensive mobile security.
Radware
Radware provides complete DDoS protection and load balancing solutions, ensuring optimal security for applications in various environments. As a Commercial CloudShark alternative, particularly for enterprise-level network security and performance, it offers robust network monitoring, sniffer capabilities, and is available as a Software as a Service (SaaS). While broader in scope than just packet analysis, its network monitoring features overlap with some CloudShark use cases.
AirSnare
AirSnare is a free Wireless Intrusion Detection System (WIDS) tool for Windows. While it doesn't offer the detailed packet analysis of CloudShark, it functions as a lightweight CloudShark alternative for network security by alerting you to unfriendly MAC addresses and suspicious network activity. It's a useful addition to your security toolbox for basic wireless network monitoring.
The best CloudShark alternative for you will depend on your specific requirements, whether it's deep packet inspection, network forensics, mobile app debugging, or robust security monitoring. Explore these options to find the perfect fit for your network analysis and troubleshooting needs.