Kismet
A wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection system.
Overview
Kismet is a powerful tool for 802.11 wireless network detection, packet sniffing, and intrusion detection. Unlike many other wireless tools, Kismet works passively by not sending any loggable packets, allowing it to detect both access points and clients without revealing its presence. It can identify hidden networks, sniff raw wireless packets, and log traffic for later analysis with tools like Wireshark.
✨ Key Features
- Passive wireless network detection (802.11, Bluetooth, etc.)
- Detection of hidden (non-beaconing) SSIDs
- Raw packet logging (pcap format)
- Client/server architecture allowing for distributed remote sniffing
- Extensible plugin architecture
- Basic wireless IDS features
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Completely passive operation
- Ability to detect non-beaconing networks
- Support for multiple wireless technologies beyond Wi-Fi
- Client/server architecture for remote sniffing
Unique Value: Provides unparalleled passive wireless discovery capabilities, allowing security professionals to map and understand a wireless environment without transmitting any data.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- Identifying all nearby Wi-Fi networks, including those not broadcasting their SSID.
- Mapping wireless network layouts and client associations.
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Active wireless attacks like cracking or deauthentication
- Deep packet inspection (better handled by Wireshark)
🏆 Alternatives
Unlike active scanners, Kismet can detect hidden networks and does not alert IDS systems. It provides broader discovery features than tools focused solely on cracking, like Aircrack-ng.
💻 Platforms
✅ Offline Mode Available
🔌 Integrations
💰 Pricing
Free tier: Full functionality, open-source.
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