GlassWire

GlassWire Software Review

GlassWire is a comprehensive network monitoring tool and firewall that offers users a unique perspective on their internet connectivity. Its primary strength lies in its visually driven approach to displaying network activity, turning potentially complex data into easily digestible graphs and timelines. This visual element is not just aesthetically pleasing; it is highly functional, allowing users to quickly identify which applications are using bandwidth, connecting to specific hosts, and their historical activity patterns.

The software combines a capable network monitor with an integrated firewall. The monitoring features are robust, providing real-time graphs of your network traffic, broken down by application and the remote hosts they are communicating with. This level of detail is invaluable for troubleshooting network performance issues or identifying suspicious connections. Users can easily see peak usage times and understand the data consumption habits of different applications.

The built-in firewall provides a necessary layer of security, allowing users to block applications from accessing the internet. While not as feature-rich as some dedicated firewall solutions, it is effective for preventing specific applications from phoning home or using bandwidth without explicit permission. The Ask to Connect mode is particularly useful, prompting users whenever a new application attempts to access the network, providing fine-grained control.

Beyond monitoring and firewall capabilities, GlassWire includes security alerts. These alerts notify the user of various events, including when an application connects to a suspicious host, changes to system files that might impact network connectivity, or when new devices join the local network. This proactive alerting system adds a significant security benefit, acting as an early warning system against potential threats or unauthorized access.

The user interface is generally intuitive and well-designed. The use of graphs and timelines makes interpreting network data straightforward, even for users who are not networking experts. Navigation between different views (Graph, Firewall, Usage, Things, Alerts) is logical and easy to follow. The software offers various themes and customization options to tailor the look and feel to user preferences.

Performance-wise, GlassWire is relatively lightweight and does not typically impact system resources significantly, even when monitoring actively. Installation is straightforward, and the software is generally stable.

However, while the free version offers core monitoring features, some advanced functionalities like the full firewall control, remote connection monitoring, and tracking more than 24 hours of history require a paid license (Basic, Pro, or Elite). Prospective users should consider their needs and compare the features offered in each tier.

In summary, GlassWire stands out due to its exceptional visual presentation of network data and its integrated security features. It is an excellent tool for anyone who wants a deeper understanding of their network activity, prioritize security, and have control over which applications communicate online. While the most advanced features are reserved for paid versions, the free version still provides valuable insights into your network.