Kismet
Kismet is an open-source wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection system for Wi-Fi networks. It can monitor wireless traffic and detect unauthorized or problematic access points or clients.
wireless
network-detector
sniffer
intrusion-detection-system
wifi-networks
Kismet: Open-Source Wireless Network Detector & Sniffer
A free, open-source solution for monitoring wireless networks, detecting unauthorized devices, and identifying potential security threats.
What is Kismet?
Kismet is an open-source wireless network detector, packet sniffer, and intrusion detection system for 802.11 wireless networks. It works with any Wi-Fi card that supports raw monitoring mode.
Kismet can passively monitor wireless traffic and detect standard named networks, hidden networks, wireless access points, ad hoc networks, wireless clients, and more. It can estimate the signal strength and physical location of wireless devices through trilateration.
As an IDS, Kismet can detect intrusions and attacks on wireless networks by monitoring for suspicious traffic patterns like brute force attacks on WEP keys, large number of connection attempts, unusual retransmissions, and other indicators of attacks. It includes customizable alerts and logging capabilities.
Kismet also includes basic wireless network mapping and surveying features that allow administrators to easily create network maps and export data feeds readable by mapping software. As an open source solution, Kismet can be customized and integrated into larger wireless monitoring and management systems.
Kismet Features
Features
- Passive monitoring
- Active probing
- GPS integration
- Drone integration
- Customizable alerts
- Plugin architecture
- REST API
- Web UI
- CLI
- Pcap logging
- Integration with IDS/IPS
- Integration with SIEMs
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Free and open source
Lightweight and efficient
Cross-platform support
Powerful feature set
Extensive plugin ecosystem
Active development community
Cons
Steep learning curve
Requires dedicated wireless card
Limited enterprise management features
Official Links
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