Wireshark vs DNSChef vs Bettercap: Which Web Security tool is Best in 2025?

Wireshark is an open-source, free network protocol analyzer widely regarded as the industry standard for capturing and analyzing network traffic in real time. Used by network administrators, cybersecurity professionals, and ethical hackers, Wireshark enables deep packet inspection, troubleshooting, and protocol analysis across various network types, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Its robust feature set and user-friendly interface make it an essential tool for monitoring network performance, detecting vulnerabilities, and ensuring robust network security.

DNSChef is a highly configurable, open-source DNS proxy tool tailored for penetration testers, malware analysts, and cybersecurity professionals. Integrated into Kali Linux, it enables users to intercept, analyze, and manipulate DNS traffic with precision. Known as a Fake DNS tool, DNSChef can redirect domain requests to custom IP addresses, making it ideal for network traffic analysis, security testing, and simulating malicious scenarios. Its cross-platform compatibility and support for advanced DNS record types set it apart as a critical asset for ethical hacking and network vulnerability assessments.

Bettercap is a powerful, open-source, and modular network security tool designed for penetration testers, security researchers, and ethical hackers. Pre-installed on Kali Linux, it serves as a Swiss Army knife for network reconnaissance, man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, and traffic manipulation across Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Ethernet, and IPv4/IPv6 networks. Written in Go, Bettercap offers a flexible framework with an intuitive web UI, scriptable proxies, and caplets for automating complex attack scenarios.