Wireshark is one of the most popular network protocol analyzers, widely used for network troubleshooting, analysis, and security testing. While it is commonly used on desktop platforms, many users want to install Wireshark on Android for mobile network monitoring. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to install and use Wireshark on an Android device.
Can You Install Wireshark on Android?
Before we dive into the installation process, it’s important to note that Wireshark does not have an official Android version. However, there are workarounds that allow you to capture and analyze network traffic on your Android device using alternatives like PCAPDroid, Termux, or rooting your device to run Wireshark.
Method 1: Using PCAPDroid (No Root Required)
If you don’t want to root your device, PCAPDroid is an excellent alternative that allows you to capture network packets without needing root access.
Steps to Install and Use PCAPDroid:
- Download PCAPDroid from the Google Play Store.
- Launch the app and grant the necessary permissions.
- Start capturing traffic by enabling VPN mode within the app.
- Analyze the captured packets directly in the app or export them for analysis in Wireshark on a PC.
Method 2: Using Termux to Run Wireshark (Root Required)
If you have a rooted Android device, you can install Wireshark using Termux, a powerful terminal emulator for Android.
Steps to Install Wireshark Using Termux:
- Install Termux from the Google Play Store.
- Update and upgrade packages by running:
pkg update && pkg upgrade - Install necessary dependencies:
pkg install x11-repo pkg install wireshark-gtk - Start Wireshark by using:
wireshark(You may need a VNC viewer to access the graphical interface.)
Method 3: Using Root + TCPDump for Capturing Packets
For advanced users, TCPDump can be used to capture packets, which can later be analyzed in Wireshark.
Steps to Use TCPDump on Android:
- Root your Android device (if not already rooted).
- Install a terminal emulator like Termux.
- Install TCPDump using:
pkg install tcpdump - Start capturing network packets:
tcpdump -i any -w /sdcard/capture.pcap - Transfer the .pcap file to your PC and analyze it using Wireshark.
Conclusion
While Wireshark is not officially available for Android, there are multiple methods to capture and analyze network traffic. PCAPDroid is the easiest solution for non-rooted devices, while Termux + Wireshark or TCPDump are great options for advanced users with rooted devices. Depending on your needs, choose the method that works best for you and start analyzing network traffic on your Android device today!