NetworkManager
NetworkManager is a Linux program for managing network connections and configuring network interfaces. It aims to be easy to use while allowing advanced configuration if needed.
networking
connection
interface
configuration
NetworkManager: Manage Network Connections
A Linux program for managing network connections and configuring network interfaces, providing an easy-to-use interface with advanced configuration options as needed.
What is NetworkManager?
NetworkManager is a program included in many Linux distributions for managing all network interfaces and connections on a device. Its main goals are:
- Make networking configuration and setup simple for average users
- Provide automatic and seamless network switching and roaming as users move between networks (WiFi, Ethernet, Mobile Broadband, etc)
- Allow advanced manual configuration options when needed
Some key features include:
- Automatic WiFi connection and reconnection management
- Support for WiFi hotspots, VPNs, mobile broadband modems, and more
- Dynamic assignment of IP addresses and DNS servers
- A command line tool, GUI config options, and DBus API for management
- Ability to prioritize connections, manage security, set up sharing, etc
NetworkManager aims to handle all the underlying network plumbing for routing, addressing, connections, etc. so the user doesn't have to manage these technical details in most cases. Its goal is to just make networking work seamlessly across various interfaces and configurations.
NetworkManager Features
Features
- Network connection management
- Wired and wireless network configuration
- VPN support
- Network traffic shaping
- Dynamic DNS updates
- Network monitoring
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Easy to use graphical interface
Supports many network types and hardware
Built-in VPN client
Flexible traffic control
Widely supported on Linux distributions
Cons
Limited command line interface
Dependency issues on some distros
Lacks some advanced configuration options
Not compatible with some niche hardware
Official Links
The Best NetworkManager Alternatives
Top Network & Admin and Network Management and other similar apps like NetworkManager
Here are some alternatives to NetworkManager:
Suggest an alternative ❐
Ceni
Ceni is an open-source network inventory management software designed to help organizations track IT assets and monitor networks. It provides a centralized platform to inventory hardware like routers, switches, servers along with installed software, licenses, configurations and more.Key features of Ceni include:Automatic discovery of devices on networks using protocols like...
Ethtool
Ethtool is a utility software included in Linux distributions that allows users to query information and configure network interface controllers. It provides a command line interface to view and change settings on network interfaces.Some of the key features and information Ethtool can show and configure include:Speed and duplex settings like...
Wicd
wicd is an open source wired and wireless network connection manager for Linux operating systems. It aims to provide a simple, intuitive interface for connecting to both wireless and wired networks while still providing advanced features.Some key features of wicd include:Support for connecting to hidden and encrypted wireless networksBackend daemon...
Wpa_supplicant
wpa_supplicant is an open source software implementation of an IEEE 802.11i supplicant that works in conjunction with the wireless drivers on Linux, BSD, macOS, and Windows operating systems. It implements key negotiation with WPA Authenticator and IEEE 802.1X Authentication Server to join wireless networks.Some key features of wpa_supplicant include:Support for...
Wvdial
Wvdial (Wide-Area Virtual Dialup IP and Networking) is an open source command line utility for establishing PPP connections over dial-up modems. It allows users to connect to the internet using a dial-up modem and works on Linux, macOS, and other UNIX-like operating systems.Some key features of Wvdial include:Automatic PPP connection...
VSNM
VSNM (Visual Network and Services Mapping) is an open-source network mapping and network discovery tool developed by AT&T.; It provides visibility into network infrastructure by automatically mapping network topology and assets across on-premises, cloud, and hybrid IT environments.Key features of VSNM include:Automated discovery of devices, applications, and relationships across the...
KPPP
KPPP is an open source point-to-point protocol (PPP) dialer and graphical front end for the pppd daemon on Linux. It was originally developed as part of the KDE desktop environment to provide an easy-to-use interface for establishing dial-up internet connections over traditional analog modems or mobile broadband devices.Some key features...
