ngrep vs Wireshark: catalog facts
 ngrep |  Wireshark |
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Free Free open-source software. |
Free Free and open source. The foundation is funded by sponsors, training and certification. |
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Windows, Linux, Command line |
Windows, macOS, Linux |
- Grep-style matching on packet payloads
- Accepts tcpdump-style BPF filters
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- Dissectors for hundreds of protocols, so the packet contents are readable rather than hex
- Display filters that cut a huge capture down to one conversation
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- Text output only, with no protocol decoding like Wireshark
- Capturing traffic usually needs root or administrator rights
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- Capturing on most systems needs elevated privileges or a driver such as Npcap
- The interface assumes you already know roughly what you are looking for
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Downloadable app |
Downloadable app |
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Open source |
Open source |
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License not stated |
License: GPL-2.0 |
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No account needed |
No account needed |
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Works offline |
Works offline |
Checked September 23, 2026 | Checked September 20, 2026 |
Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.
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