This is probably one of the best Windows-based software I have ever used for wireless network detection. With 802.11a/b/g standard becoming a widespread common protocol for network interconnections, office and household users have succumb to the fascinating wireless connectivity to the World Wide Web (WWW) by mere invisible electromagnetic waves, operating usually at 2.4GHz license-free (in some countries) frequency.

NetStumber 0.4.0 has proven to be quite a useful piece of tool, in terms of wireless network detection. It allows detection of various network type, i.e. Peer-to-Peer, and Access Points (AP). In addition, it offers real-time signal-to-noise (SNR) ratio of a particular network, refreshing at approximately 1Hz. Compared to Windows’ bundled Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC) tool, this is an absolutely useful, especially in regions where signal is particularly very poor. Should there be several networks operating at the same time, NetStumbler has managed to picked them up simultaneously. Currently, NetStumbler supports several wireless network cards, so likelihood that you picked any Wireless card, and try with NetStumbler, chances that it is likely to work.

The main use of NetStumbler is basically a tool for Windows to detect Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) using 802.11a/b/g protocols.

Other Uses:

• Verify that your network is set up the way you intended.
• Find locations with poor coverage in your WLAN.
• Detect other networks that may be causing interference on your network.
• Detect unauthorized “rogue” access points in your workplace.
• Help aim directional antennas for long-haul WLAN links.
• Use it recreationally for WarDriving.

Unfortunately, this software is only meant for Windows. There are also other WLANs detection tools for Linux and Mac OS X, which shall not be covered here. Overall, any Wireless users should have this piece of software equipped installed in their PC, whether it is just for detection or to tap signal. Click here to download NetStumbler 0.4.0.