Free Bandwidth Monitoring Tools for Windows
Monitoring bandwidth usage on Windows can be crucial for both personal and professional needs. Here are some free tools that you can use to monitor bandwidth usage on Windows:
1. GlassWire
GlassWire is a popular network monitoring tool that provides detailed insights into your bandwidth usage. It has a free version with features such as:
- Real-time bandwidth monitoring.
- Visual graphs to show your network activity.
- Alerts for unusual network activity.
Download Link: GlassWire
2. NetWorx
NetWorx is a simple and powerful tool for measuring your bandwidth usage. It offers:
- Real-time monitoring of network traffic.
- Usage reports by day, week, or month.
- Notifications when certain usage thresholds are reached.
Download Link: NetWorx
3. BitMeter OS
BitMeter OS is an open-source bandwidth meter that runs in the background and records your data usage. Features include:
- Web-based interface to view bandwidth usage.
- Customizable alerts.
- Detailed graphs and statistics.
Download Link: BitMeter OS
4. PRTG Network Monitor (Freeware Version)
PRTG Network Monitor by Paessler is a comprehensive network monitoring tool. While it’s primarily a commercial product, it offers a free version with up to 100 sensors. Key features include:
- Real-time bandwidth monitoring.
- Customizable dashboards and alerts.
- Detailed reporting.
Download Link: PRTG Network Monitor
5. NetSpeedMonitor
NetSpeedMonitor is a lightweight toolbar application that monitors your network usage. Although it was originally designed for older versions of Windows, it can still be used on newer versions with some tweaks. Features include:
- Real-time network speed monitoring.
- Daily and monthly usage reports.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
Download Link: NetSpeedMonitor
6. Wireshark
Wireshark is a well-known network protocol analyzer that can be used for monitoring network traffic in detail. While it is more complex and powerful than simple bandwidth monitors, it is extremely useful for advanced users. Features include:
- Deep inspection of hundreds of protocols.
- Live capture and offline analysis.
- Rich VoIP analysis.
Download Link: Wireshark
7. Cucusoft Net Guard
Cucusoft Net Guard is a free bandwidth monitoring tool that helps you keep track of your internet usage and find the applications consuming most of your bandwidth. Features include:
- Real-time bandwidth monitoring.
- Monthly usage reports.
- Bandwidth usage alerts.
Download Link: Cucusoft Net Guard
8. NetworkUsageView
NetworkUsageView by NirSoft is a lightweight tool that displays the network usage data stored in the SRUDB.dat database of Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows 11. Features include:
- Display of network usage statistics.
- Filtering options to view specific data.
- Export data to various formats.
Download Link: NetworkUsageView
9. bwmonitor
Bandwidth Monitor monitors bandwidth usages through computer it’s installed on. The software displays real-time download and upload speeds in graphical and numerical forms (refer to screen shot below), logs bandwidth usages, and provides daily, weekly and monthly bandwidth usage reports. Bandwidth Monitor monitors all network connections on a computer, such as LAN network connection, Internet network connection, and VPN connection. Features include:
- Real-time bandwidth monitoring.
- Monitor Multiple Networks
- Test download speeds
Download Link: bwmonitor
10. ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer
NetFlow Analyzer, a complete traffic analytics tool, that leverages flow technologies to provide real time visibility into the network bandwidth performance. Features include:
- Bandwidth Monitoring & Traffic Analysis
- Network Forensics and Security Analysis
- Monitor Voice, Video and Data effectively
Download Link: ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer
These tools offer a variety of features to help you monitor and manage your bandwidth usage effectively on a Windows system. Choose the one that best fits your needs and technical expertise.