Generally, this software was designed for the Windows NT 5.x line of operating systems. This includes Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003.
There are two different methods that can be used by this software to listen to network traffic. Depending on which method is chosen, the compatibility differs.
The first method available is called Raw Sockets. Raw Sockets is a part of the operating system for the Windows NT 5.x line of operating systems.
The second method available is called NetworkActiv Packet Driver, or simply Packet Driver. NetworkActiv Packet Driver is only available in version 2.0 and higher of this software; Hence, version 1.x of this software only supports Raw Sockets.
Aside from the basic requirement of a supported operating system (as mentioned above), there are a few other things that need to be considered (see below).
Operating system settings:
If you wish to use Raw Sockets to capture network traffic with this software, you will need to have Raw Sockets enabled in your operating system. By default, Raw Sockets is enabled, however, there are programs available that can explicitly disable Raw Sockets. If one of these programs has been used on your operating system, you may need to re-enable Raw Sockets (using the same or a similar program).
Additionally, you must be logged onto your system with an administrative user account in order to use Raw Sockets and also to use NetworkActiv Packet Driver.
A quick note, this software was designed to be used with a screen resolution of at least 800*600.
If you are using Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2), you will need to disable the Windows Firewall for the Raw Sockets listening mode to work. The Windows Firewall is under the service named "Windows Firewall/Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)". (note: disabling the Windows Firewall is at your own risk, you may wish to use third party firewall software in this case)
Desired level of capture:
Raw Sockets does not provide Datalink level capturing and only supports TCP/IP. What this means is that while listening using Raw Sockets, you will only be able to capture TCP/IP traffic. You will not be able to capture ARP or any other non TCP/IP protocols unless you choose to capture using NetworkActiv Packet Driver.
Network adapter hardware:
Some network adapter hardware will not work with one or both of the methods of listening supported by this software. See the table below for information on the compatibility of the network adapters that have been tested with this software.
