Uncovering the Best Xirrus WiFi Designer Alternatives for Optimal Network Planning
Riverbed Xirrus WiFi Designer, while a valuable tool for gaining visibility and designing effective Wi-Fi networks, may not always be the perfect fit for every user's specific needs or budget. Its focus on free Wi-Fi monitoring and planning is commendable, but users might seek alternatives offering different features, broader platform compatibility, or a more specialized approach to network design. This article explores several top Xirrus WiFi Designer alternatives that can help you achieve optimal Wi-Fi performance.
Top Xirrus WiFi Designer Alternatives
Whether you're a seasoned IT professional or just starting with network planning, finding the right tool is crucial. Here are some of the best alternatives to Xirrus WiFi Designer, each offering unique strengths for various Wi-Fi design and analysis tasks.

NetSpot
NetSpot is a simple and accessible wireless survey tool that allows for collecting, visualizing, and analyzing Wi-Fi data, making it a powerful Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative. Available on Freemium, Mac, and Windows platforms, NetSpot stands out with features like an Integrated Virus scanner, IP trace, Nearby Scan, Tracker blocker, Visual Wi-Fi map, Vulnerability Scanning, and WiFi Signal Measurement, offering a comprehensive suite for network analysis and design.

iStumbler
iStumbler is a leading wireless discovery tool for Mac OS X, providing plugins for finding AirPort networks, Bluetooth devices, and Bonjour services with your Mac. As a commercial Mac-only application, it offers features such as Encrypted passwords and a Scanner, making it a specialized Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for Apple users.

Ekahau HeatMapper
Ekahau HeatMapper is a free software tool for quick and easy coverage mapping of Wi-Fi (802.11) networks. This Freemium Windows-based application is a great Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for users who need a straightforward and cost-effective solution for basic Wi-Fi mapping without advanced features.

AirRadar
AirRadar simplifies scanning for wireless networks, allowing users to personalize their experience by tagging networks as favorites or filtering them out. This commercial Mac application serves as a user-friendly Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for those primarily on the macOS platform looking for easy network discovery.

www.jwaves.io
www.jwaves.io is a free online service for Wi-Fi and DECT predictive surveys/simulations. As a web-based platform, it allows users to generate professional reports with RSSI heatmaps and floorplans, providing a convenient and accessible Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for online planning and simulations.

AirMagnet AirMapper
AirMagnet AirMapper enables strategic Wireless LAN Design by measuring the "true" end-user experience using your Android-based smart device. This commercial Android application is an excellent Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for mobile-centric network professionals focused on BYOD-ready designs and on-the-go surveys.

TamoGraph Site Survey
TamoGraph Site Survey is a powerful and user-friendly wireless site survey software tool for collecting, visualizing, and analyzing 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi data. This commercial Windows application is a robust Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for comprehensive wireless network planning and analysis.
Ultimately, the best Xirrus WiFi Designer alternative for you will depend on your specific operating system, budget, and the depth of features you require for your Wi-Fi network design and analysis tasks. Explore these options to find the perfect fit for your needs and optimize your wireless environment.