inSSIDer Editor's Review

Identify and troubleshoot wireless networking connections with this must have Windows utility.

Most everything that computes today is wireless.  There's more wireless networks broadcasting signals near where you are right now than you might think. The problem is, connecting to a network you're authorized to connect to isn't always easy. Its for this reason that apps like insider are an important part of any Windows utility toolbox.

inSSIDer for Home helps you measure the signal strength of available Wi-Fi signals and networks and attempts to estimate their performance. The app can show you how walls, stairways, and doors affect your wireless network coverage, and can most likely help you choose the best place to put your wireless router, access point or signal repeater.

All Wi-Fi must share channels with other electronic devices, including other wireless networks and signals.  If there are too many networks sharing or overlapping a channel, your network speed and performance can suffer. inSSIDer helps you find the best channel for your Wi-Fi network.

Many local governments and municipalities may require your Wi-Fi signal to be secured.  Running your wireless network wide open so that anyone can use it isn't really a good idea.  If you have a bandwidth cap, it can easily be exceeded.  There have also been reports of people hacking corporate networks with unsecured Wi-Fi signals.  Securing your network is important, and inSSIDer can help you set and determine which security settings your Wi-Fi is using, reducing the risk of unauthorized access into your home network.

App Pro’s: Works with Windows Vista to Windows 8

App Con’s: Doesn't list all support file requirements and doesn't auto install those that are missing, Won’t install in Parallels

Conclusion: iSSIDer is an interesting app. I wish I had something like this on the Mac side of the world. Its displays are cool, and provide you with the information it needs to get your network running well. I had a great deal of trouble installing the software however, especially on my Windows 8 machines (I have two...) It failed to install on both of them. The app requires .NET Framework to run, but does not include the components as part of the installation file, and it needs to.