NetLimiter for Windows

NetLimiter 5.3.26.0 is a network traffic control and monitoring program for Windows from LockTime Software, developed since 2005. You download NetLimiter when something is eating your internet connection and you want to see which app it is, slow it down, or block it entirely.

What does NetLimiter do?

Windows shows total network usage, but it gives little control over how bandwidth is shared between programs. NetLimiter hooks into the network stack and lists every application and every connection with its current download and upload speed. From that list you can set a limit on any app: for example, keep a game launcher's updates below a certain speed so that a video call stays smooth, or give a torrent client only part of your upload. Limits can apply to a single connection, an application or a group of apps, and they can be switched on by schedule or by conditions. The program also works as an application firewall: it can ask you when a program tries to connect for the first time and remember your decision to allow or deny it. A statistics module stores traffic history, so you can see how much data each app used over a day, week or month, which is useful on metered connections. The release notes list changes in each version.

Which editions are there?

LockTime offers NetLimiter in several editions with different feature sets, from basic monitoring and limiting to full rules, firewall and statistics. You can try the program before buying; current editions and prices are on the official website.

How do I install and use it?

1. Download the installer from the official download page.
2. Run it; setup installs a network driver, so administrator rights are needed.
3. Open NetLimiter and watch the list of apps and their speeds.
4. Click the limit field next to an app, enter a value and turn the limit on.
5. Enable the blocker if you want to approve new connections manually.

The installer is about 10.61 MB according to catalogue data.

Is it safe to use?

NetLimiter uses a kernel network driver, so install only the official build. Cracked versions of network tools are a common way to spread malware. A strict blocker can also cut off Windows updates or security software; review the rules if something stops working.

Who is it for?

Gamers who want low ping while downloads run, people on slow or capped connections, parents who want to throttle certain apps, and administrators who need to see what traffic a PC generates.

Pros and cons

• Pro: clear per-app traffic view.
• Pro: flexible limits and priorities.
• Pro: built-in firewall prompts.
• Con: full features require a paid licence.
• Con: kernel driver can conflict with some VPNs or security tools.
• Con: many settings for beginners.

What are the alternatives?

For monitoring only, NetSpeedMonitor and Wireshark on our site are useful. TCP Optimizer tunes connection settings, and Speedtest by Ookla measures your actual line speed.