Side by side
netcat vs WhatRoute
Both stand on network diagnostic software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Linux
Netcat provides a compact set of connection, diagnostic, and scripting functions at no cost. Its older project status and caution around the optional execution feature matter when selecting it for current environments.
Visit netcat Free plan Mac
WhatRoute offers a wide set of network diagnostics and monitoring tools at no charge. Check the macOS 14.6 minimum and elevated-access requirement for operations that need the privileged helper.
Visit WhatRouteThe facts
| netcat | WhatRoute | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 3 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | nc110.sourceforge.io | whatroute.net |
| On network diagnostic software | #20 of 37 | #24 of 37 |
netcat: what it does well
- Free software with no usage restrictions
- TCP and UDP connection support
- Port scanning and DNS checks
- Hex-dump capture
- Scriptable command-line back end
What to know first
- Original project page lists a 2018 update
- The -e option requires a special compile setting
- The project advises care with program execution
- Linux and Unix focus
WhatRoute: what it does well
- Includes traceroute, ping and bandwidth monitoring
- Maps network nodes and data paths
- DNS performance results can be exported as CSV
- Free, with optional donations
What to know first
- Requires macOS Sonoma 14.6 or later for version 2.8.1
- Some network operations require administrator access
Alternatives to netcat Alternatives to WhatRoute The whole list