inSSIDer is a Wi-Fi scanning tool that helps users identify all nearby Wi-Fi signals. But there are free alternatives available.
For those who are not fond of the $19.99 price tag, there are many free or mostly free alternatives available. Let’s check out a few of the alternatives:
1) Wifi Analyzer
Wifi Analyzer is a free app designed to help users choose the best channel for their wireless router.
Advantages: The program is available for free on Android devices. It uses the Wi-Fi aspects of the compatible Android device to turn said device into a Wi-Fi antenna. From there, the user can determine what channel their wireless router should be set on.
Disadvantages: There is no iOS support for this app at this time, so it will not work on Apple devices. At the time of the writing, there is also a bug that prevents the program from updating, and the only solution is to reboot the device.
Official Site: http://a.farproc.com/wifi-analyzer
2) NetSpot
NetSpot is a simple Wi-Fi scanner for Mac users.
Advantages: The program is very simple and user friendly. It creates a visualization of the Wi-Fi network, and maps out dead zones. It also allows the user to create a customized area map to show the best and strongest wireless network locations.
Disadvantages:While it does have many good features, this program only works on Macbook devices. The free version only has limited functionality, and a pro version costs $149.
Official Site: http://www.netspotapp.com/netspotpro
3) Network Stumbler
Network Stumbler is a similar program to NetSpot. The only difference is that it is designed for a Windows operating system.
Advantages: The program is offered for free, and is very simple and user friendly. The navigation is easy to understand, even for the newest user. It also allows users to identify unauthorized users on their own personal network.
Disadvantages: There are some complaints that the program does not support the 64-bit version of Windows 7, and that there are some unofficial download websites listing this program and attaching malware programs.
Official Site: http://www.netstumbler.com/
4) Kismet
Kismet is a cross platform open-source program that allows users to monitor and protect their Wifi networks.
Advantages: The program is cross platform, meaning that it works on Windows and Mac computers, as well as compatible Android operating systems. It works with any wireless card, and allows users to detect network intrusions.
Disadvantages: The program is open source, so it is constantly being updated and altered as new bugs are found.
Official Site: https://www.kismetwireless.net/index.shtml
5) iStumblr
iStumblr is a wireless discovery tool for Mac OS X.
Advantages: In addition to wireless discovery, the program also supports Bluetooth and Bonjour services. It displays all nearby networks, whether the network is secured or not.
Disadvantages: Because this program is open source, it has a lot of bugs that are being constantly updated and fixed. As such, it may not be the most stable program. It is also limited to Mac computers and devices.
Official Site: http://www.istumbler.net/index
In a world of wireless devices, programs such as these are invaluable tools. People are constantly connected, and Wi-Fi networks are convenient to locate if the tools are utilized to obtain the best connection.
