Scanner for wireless wi-fi networks. WiFi SiStr is a free utility for displaying the signal strength of Wi-Fi networks. Wifi analyzer programs

Hidden network scanner programs.

The vast majority of routers today come to the user with a good set of security settings, such as:

• WPA encryption;
• MAC address filtering;
• Ability to operate at reduced signal strengths transmitted to clients;
• Ability to disable DHCP and use a static IP address;
• Ability to hide the wireless AP name (SSID).

All these settings reduce the chances of a hacker not only to hack the wireless access, but also to find the point itself. They reduce it, but they cannot prevent it. In the next Computer76 article we will talk about the last of the settings I mentioned - SSID.

Anyone who has dealt with setting up a router knows that the network name is an option that is open by default. Beginners give it a name, thinking only about how to make their point unique among others. Pros hide the network name far away.

Why does the network name appear in the settings as an open setting? Yes, everything is simple - I found the network among the others, entered the password - and on the Internet. After “a couple of problems” with the network, the user begins to realize that a neighbor who is skilled in Kali Linux can do this to his network just as easily. A network with a broadcast name is minus one serious obstacle for a hacker.

Let's hide the network name and that's the end of the matter? No matter how it is.

You no longer need to be a hacking guru to find a hidden network. The software market presents a sufficient number of utilities and programs that will “cope” well with your hidden network. The list of detected networks, of course, will depend on the selected modem model. Next. These programs will not be able to “pick up” the name of unnamed SSID networks. Some of the programs show an empty field instead of a name, some define the network as Non-Broadcasted.

In order to feel the difference, I suggest you first use the built-in search tool in Windows. Open the command console and type:

As you can see, even though the team exists, you can’t make much money with its help. Let's move on to third-party utilities.

The simplest and perhaps most popular of them is WirelessNetView. If you are involved in security testing, then the ability to select scanning using a specific modem card in the Options menu will definitely be useful. There is a sound signal when a new AP is detected. It does not require installation.

The nameless network is immediately visible: it... has no name. Plus, you can cancel the more active operation of the built-in or connected translator. If you found using WirelessNetView open network, you can connect to it directly from the options menu. Of course, no social networks or online payments.

Hidden network scanners

The next program has a more beautiful design. Utility inSSIDer will allow you to scan at two frequencies simultaneously or separately for each. Other filters are available. But the most important thing is that hidden networks are shown accurately. The program works on all versions of Windows.

Hidden network scanners

Next program NetSurveyor upon startup, it will also prompt you to select a wifi receiver and immediately begin continuous scanning of nearby networks. A very informative window, however, the functionality is no different from previous programs:

Hidden network scanners

Compared to other programs of this kind, this one is Xirrus Wi-Fi Inspector– weighs the most – for 20 MB. It will require installation. The interface is colorful, but all the information and settings are in one tab... In part of the program window there is an animated radar showing the nearest access points.

Wifi scanner is a special program that will determine the networks currently available for connection. But in addition to such network scanning, the analyzer allows you to determine the most favorable location for the router. A Wi-Fi analyzer is a reliable assistant that can troubleshoot existing problems and provide a good radio signal.

Wi-Fi analyzers are designed to determine the fastest and most reliable way to connect to the Internet. Thanks to the use of analyzers, you can achieve a stable and fast signal. They provide the ability to scan Wi-Fi channels.

The principle of operation of the wifi network scanner

Wi-Fi analyzers are programs that are installed on devices. In general, the main task of the scanner is to analyze channels and show summary information to the user to select the optimal connection channel.

A channel is a communication path along which a signal is transmitted. Several networks are “powered” by one channel, so they are often overloaded and this causes failures.

Pay attention! The most successful frequencies for a router are 2.4 and 5 gigahertz, with 5 GHz appearing quite recently.

To avoid interference, you need to switch to a less busy channel. There are 13 such paths in our country, 12 of which are accepted by many operating systems.

Important! In Russia, 13 channels are allowed, in the US - 11, so Apple may not catch the remaining two channels. You will have to reconfigure the router to work with all available channels.

Analyzer options

The scanner does the following:

• detects interference, but not from household microwave ovens, namely channels;
• search for available networks;
• selects a location where the signal is not subject to interference;
• shows traffic packets;
• works with mac addresses.

Important! Interference often occurs in apartment buildings due to the “clumping” of different networks, when signals overlap each other, causing signal loss. To solve the problem, just change the parameter about automatic channel selection in the analyzer.

Many analyzers have other advantages:

• they are often free;
• identify and resolve problems;
• exclude illegal networks;
• find hidden SSIDs.

Important! Probably, many users have at least once encountered the fact that the list of available networks includes Wi-Fi without protection, that is, you can connect to it without a password or PIN code. In fact, this is a trick of scammers. If a user connects to this Wi-Fi, hackers will gain access to personal data, which is especially dangerous for bank card holders. With this technique, scammers reset user accounts.

Analyzer programs

There are many such utilities that scan networks; let’s look at which ones are suitable for a specific operating system.

For Windows

The notorious “Windows” are suitable for many programs.

Example of network analysis using inSSIDer 4

This utility determines the type of protection (encryption protocols WEP, WPA, WPA2), SSID, signal strength, speed, channels.

You can download it online from the developer’s website or from the Microsoft website, but you will first need to install the NET Framework package. Installation is carried out with a regular reboot of the computer.

You can download the program in the following ways:

• follow the link https://www.microsoft.com/ru-ru/download/details.aspx?id=48130 - this is a link to install the NET Framework package above 2.0, when downloaded, innSSIDer will be automatically installed;
• download from the link https://www.metageek.com/support/downloads/ - installation from the official website of the developer.

Important! You can download the analyzer only if you have a network adapter. Please note that the NET Framework package is not suitable for Windows 10, so the first installation method is not suitable for this OS.

Wifi search and scan mode

The name of the network card is displayed at the top of the window. You can start viewing and scanning by using the start/stop button. A menu with network statistics will appear.

Scanning Wi-Fi networks

A graph with network frequencies and their overlaps will appear in the program window.

Also displayed:

• SSID - the usual name of the network, for example, “My Windows + router”;
• Channels - the most important parameter, the very channels due to which the signal often gets lost;
• RSSI - signal strength;

Pay attention! A good signal has the smallest magnitude.

• Max Rate - highest speed;
• Security - security type (WPA, WPA2);
• map of signal changes over time.

If menu items get in the way, you need to uncheck the unnecessary items in the View item.

Pay attention! If necessary, you can filter networks by known parameters (ssid, channel) to quickly find yours.

Search for free channels on Wi-Fi networks

Scanning wifi channels is quite simple.

In order to connect to the desired channel, you need to go to the direct settings - find the “Wireless Mode Settings” panel. Then enter the IP address 192.168.0.1 or another (can be found on the router). In the window that opens, select the appropriate item, for example, channels and set the desired number. Then you should select the “Save and Reload” function.

Wi-Fi Analyzer

A universal utility for all Windows - 7, 8, 10. Visualizes intersecting networks, has all the functions of other programs, and carries out full network monitoring.

Acrylic Wi-Fi Home

This is a modification of the well-known Tarlogic Security. It has all the capabilities of other utilities, but additionally allows you to detect hidden SSIDs and provides factory Wi-Fi passwords for all found routers. The downside of the utility is data export, which is very limited.

Cain & Abel

Quite an interesting program that stores many passwords of neighboring routers and the user’s passwords.

Pay attention! Also known are WirelessNetView, Ekahau HeatMapper, LizardSystems, the main feature of which can be safely called the compilation of heat maps.

For Android

Google took care of users by creating the Android OS, with which many analyzers are compatible.

Wi-Fi Analyzer and Surveyor

A popular Wi-Fi network scanner in Russian. The utility is completely free, it does not have a paid version. The principle of operation of the application is based on measuring a radio signal using an additional tap on the smartphone screen. You need to follow the instructions of the application.

You can download the apartment/office plan into the application. Then it will create a “heat map” of the room.

Wi-Fi Visualizer

Similar to the previous analyzer. Also finds networks and makes a map.

The application has a Chart of Signal Strength feature. It allows you to identify the dependence of the signal level on time.

Iphone

As you know, the iPhone has its own operating system - iOS, which works only with ARM architecture.

NetSpot

Free professional application. The utility scans networks every 10, 30 and 60 seconds. Works in several modes - Survey (makes a map of the room), Discover (shows networks).

Also suitable for Windows 7, 8, 10.

Important! According to the developer, this utility is used by Google, Motorola and other corporations.

ISSH

This scanner is suitable for iPhone and iPad. Quite easy to use.

IP Scanner

Has an intuitive interface. Eliminates the possibility of connecting to an unwanted router using the “white list” function. Available for free on six devices only.

Wi-Fi Analyzer

Shows the capabilities of the channels, which ones are most beneficial for speed. Calculates their rating.

INetTools

This application has an interesting option - saving a list of all used servers.

Important! In addition to the legal AppStore, you can download it from the Cydia service, but in this case the phone must go through a special “jailbreak” procedure. This is a rather risky method; the user is responsible for the consequences.

The speed of modern Wi-Fi leaves much to be desired, but the problem can be solved thanks to Wi-Fi analyzers. With their help, the user can use the network almost uninterruptedly, saving his time for more important matters.

And launch NetSpot. By default, the program will open in Search Mode, which will help you monitor the wireless networks around you in real time. Please note - NetSpot remembers the active mode before exiting the program - search mode or polling mode.

Step 2

Search and scan mode

In search mode, within a few seconds you will receive the first data about surrounding wireless networks. And the longer NetSpot works in search mode, the more accurate and complete the data received will be.

All found Wi-Fi networks are clearly visible

Search mode in NetSpot 2.x is a separate interactive list with information about all unhidden wireless networks. The list is updated depending on the interval you set, every 5-10-30 seconds. If a network disappears, you will still be able to see it for a while and determine how long ago it disappeared.

Scan Wi-Fi networks

To stop scanning, simply click on the "Pause" button in the lower left part of the program window. The scan will be paused until you start it again. If too many found wireless networks are displayed, you can filter them by any parameter or simply exclude them from the general list.

Step 5

Multifunctional radio space scanning

In NetSpot Search Mode, you can configure a list to display the parameters of interest for the found networks; this list is configured by right-clicking on the table header. Typically, users are interested in signal strength, network name, network signal-to-noise ratio, BSSID, channel, mode, security, etc. You can also configure the order in which parameters are displayed: just press and hold the parameter of interest in the table header and move it left/right depending on its priority.

Step 6

Visualization and export

NetSpot provides the ability to visualize and export the received data. To visualize the data, click in the lower left part of the “Details” window, where you can see a graph built in real time and analyze the received data for the network of interest. To export the received data to CSV, click "Export" on the main toolbar.

A Wi-Fi analyzer is simply a necessary tool when sometimes in everyday life, when using Wi-Fi networks, the most stable access point, which shows the best coverage, does not provide the most stable Internet. To easily identify Wi-Fi access points that provide stable Internet, without any interference, you need a Wi-Fi analyzer, which will be discussed in this article.

What is a wifi analyzer

wifi analyzer- a program or device that scans and analyzes the network; as Captain Obvious tells us. The goals and implementation of such analysis may differ greatly from searching for a cleaner channel to Aircrack-ng methods, which is highly advisable to take into account when looking for a wifi scanner. However, when talking about an analyzer, they mean a tool for constructing a coverage map, analyzing channel distribution, analyzing interference and signal level, excluding traffic analysis tools like Wireshark, Aircrack, tcpdump; after all, they are in a slightly different direction, although they can also analyze interference if ask.

To put it very simply, a wifi analyzer is a program to see why Wi-Fi doesn’t work.

This class of tools is needed to observe the mutual influence of centimeter-wave radio devices, which is any equipment capable of wi-fi, or in simple terms, in order to see in real time not only who is to blame, but also what to do to restore a stable connection in the sense of where and how to bring down, yeah, a kind of tractor for Peter the Pig.

Wi-Fi analysis is a common and necessary task when setting up, diagnosing, restoring and hacking a network. Naturally, depending on the task, aspects of the analysis are different; if during setup and diagnostics the physical properties of the channel (frequency, influence of fields, channel occupancy) are more interesting, then when hacking more attention is paid to logic (protection, encryption, etc.).

The task is so important that for devices like the Ubiquiti NanoStation, the release of the possibility of such analysis is not a feature, but a necessity.

And to endure on your favorite tablet, one megabit rushing, when you can take a couple of steps around the room to five stripes... in order to know where to step, analysis is exactly what is needed.
The stability of the connection depends on many difficult-to-calculate factors: the relative position of the devices, the influence of close frequencies, and even the condition of the surface. All this is practically impossible to calculate, but you can look at it in real time and select the frequency and position in which the negative impact is minimal. Because the speed of the connection depends on the stability of the connection.

Wifi analyzer programs

There are countless software implementations of analyzers. Both well-known software writers and specialized companies were noted here, some of which are, in general, hardware manufacturers like the above-mentioned Ubiquiti with their AirView. All programs differ slightly in interface and visualization method, they do approximately the same thing and even in the same way.

Some differences are dictated by the purpose of scanning, for example, TamoGraph Site Survey is focused on placing WiFi devices over an area; InSSIDer - to analyze the connection of available networks in the allowed ranges; and AirView exists to make life easier for the Ubiquiti customizer on and off range. Nevertheless, the most popular of the entire family is the Wi-Fi analyzer, presented with utilities for Android and Windows devices, because “I’m an Android, I need the Internet and a power outlet.” The program allows you to find a place where no one and nothing interferes; you can simply master and use it, while being sufficient for home use.

Example of Wi-Fi network analysis

Any Analysis is meaningless without a goal. This is such an abstract thought. The goal of the first example will be to restore the channel width between Vasya and Petya. The channel is configured on Ubiquiti equipment and has only two antennas for simplicity. Having discovered a drop in speed, Vasya goes to 192.168.1.20 and sees there, say, “transmit ccq 50%”. Cursing at the slow connection, Vasya downloads JAWA and finally he presses the big blue Launch AirView button. From this moment the analysis actually begins, which, by the way, needs to be allowed to run for about 10 minutes to accumulate statistics.

Most analyzers display information in the form of graphs; there are many of them, but usually they duplicate each other to one degree or another. Vasya has three of them - short-term (power) displays changes in the last minutes of work, long-term (power) displays the scale from the moment the scan was started, and long-term (energy).

Having recalculated the peaks on the “Waveform View” graph (a long-term graph of power changes), Vasya not only sees that some device has appeared nearby in frequency, but also detects by the depth of the blue color to which frequencies the channel can be changed.
The second task for the example will be to find a wider channel for Android. We launch the Wi-Fi analyzer, look at the channel rating for the point on the “channel rating” tab, and get the numbers of free channels. Somehow the example didn't come out. Let's take for example the task of finding a more powerful point signal. We launch the Wi-Fi analyzer, turn on the meter and see how the readings change when we walk around the room; by the way, if the device data is linked to coordinates, we will get a coverage map in the process.

Wifi analyzer for android

A portable device used in a difficult radio environment must have the means to analyze the surrounding mayhem, it simply must. By typing Wifi analyzer, we get a list of 10 positions, similar functionality and implementation, well, I told you - the place is good.

Having chosen a program that is convenient for you personally, sometimes you don’t understand how you lived before installing it. Assess the network, find the optimal location, and due to the size of the wifi wave, the connection depends on the position and orientation of the device. Yes, in the end, choosing a connection point from among the possible ones is also an analysis hardwired into the phone’s carrier.

Wifi analyzer for Windows

All the thoughts about a portable device are valid, but the store has a smaller selection and higher prices, although there is a Wi-Fi analyzer and it’s even free. On the Internet you can find InSSIDer and many, many others. The TamoGraph Site Survey mentioned above is also from this sandbox.

Having Wi-Fi on board, you should also have a Wi-Fi analyzer. Elders say that even if they remove it for the sake of free space, they still have to install it again and again.

Don’t get your hopes up, this is just a utility for “looking with your eyes”; by seeing and correcting the channel frequency, the position of the device and the antenna, you can have a more stable contact at a higher torrent speed, especially if you move the welder away from the antenna.

3 more useful articles:

WiFi Guard is an absolutely necessary utility for all enthusiasts with a small wireless network who want to secure it.…

WiFi Crack is a program for forgetful users or novice crackers. Allows you to brute force easily and simply...

Are your neighbors shamelessly stealing your Internet? Let's check it out - a small and free computer program WiFi Guard will allow you to quickly scan your WI-FI network and identify Internet thieves.

Today, many Internet users have a WI-FI router at home that creates a wireless network. This is very convenient and allows you to get rid of wires throughout the apartment. But there are people (usually evil neighbors) who can take advantage of your carelessness and connect to this network.

Content:

Checking your wireless network

Unfortunately, many people forget to put basic password to their wi-fi network and don’t even suspect that someone is connected to them for free. For these people, they came up with the WiFi Guard program, which will make them think about security.

Don't have a WI-FI password?

Then we are coming to you - we love free Internet...

WiFi Guard program

The free WiFi Guard computer program understands Russian (and many others) perfectly...

...and immediately after installation it opens the settings window...

...in which you need to set your network adapter. It usually has an IP address starting with 192.168...

In the second tab, you can enable a sound notification when any device connects to your Wi-Fi network...

After setting up the program, you can start scanning...

Identify your devices on the network by IP or mac addresses and name them for easy recognition next time - right-click on the line and “Edit”...

If you don’t know the addresses of your devices, simply, using the method of elimination, disconnect them one by one from the network and rescan the wi-fi network.

Now experts will say that the network can be viewed using the system, but the WiFi Guard program has advantages - a sound alert when a new device is connected, it can scan the network at a specified interval, and detects devices with firewalls that do not respond to ping.

WiFi Guard does not protect your wi-fi network, but only displays connected devices!

After identifying other people's devices on your network, take security measures - at least set a password (or change it) in the router. For more powerful protection, the Internet can help you - there are many tips and various programs you can find for this.

Download WiFi Guard

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To new useful computer programs and.