Open Visual Traceroute

What Open Visual Traceroute is

Open Visual Traceroute is a free, open-source desktop tool for tracing the route between a computer and a target server. Its traceroute view places the data path on a 3D world map; a 2D map is also available for computers or operating systems that have difficulty with OpenGL drivers. The tool includes Whois lookups for public domain information and DNS diagnostics. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and the maker provides the complete source code for download. Version 2.0.0 requires Java 11 or later, which is its required external software, and the maker says it can run without administrator privileges. That version added dark mode and shifted the tool’s focus to visual traceroute by deprecating packet sniffing and embedded traceroute mode. Users encountering bugs are directed to the maker’s help page. The maker also accepts PayPal contributions to support development. Its listed plan is free and open source at no cost.

Who it suits

It suits users on Windows, macOS, or Linux who want to visualize network routes and look up public domain information. It may also suit users who prefer software whose source code is available for download.

Limits

The listed plan is free and open source at no cost. Version 2.0.0 requires Java 11 or later and no longer includes packet sniffing or embedded traceroute mode.

Getting started

1. Visit https://visualtraceroute.net/.
2. Choose the download for Windows, macOS, or Linux.
3. Install Java 11 or later, required for version 2.0.0.
4. Run the desktop application; version 2.0.0 does not require administrator privileges.

Verdict

Open Visual Traceroute focuses on route visualization, with 3D and 2D maps plus Whois and DNS tools. Users need Java 11 or later, and the current focus excludes packet sniffing and embedded traceroute mode.