Absolute Insights for Network vs Kismet: Side-by-Side Comparison (2026)
Features, pricing, ratings, and pros and cons, compared head to head.
Absolute Insights for Network is a commercial network detection and response tool by Absolute. Kismet is a free intrusion detection and prevention systems tool. Compare features, ratings, integrations, and community reviews side by side to find the best network detection and response fit for your security stack. Independent and vendor-neutral: our scores and rankings are earned, never bought — sponsored placement is always labeled.
CST VerdictShort answer
Mid-market and enterprise security teams managing hybrid workforces across multiple networks will find Absolute Insights for Network essential for visibility into device behavior where traditional perimeter controls fail. The tamper-proof Windows client and cross-platform coverage (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) catches data exfiltration and man-in-the-middle attacks that flow-based NDR misses, with explicit support for ZTNA policy enforcement visibility. Skip this if your priority is incident response automation; Absolute excels at continuous monitoring and threat detection but leaves response workflows to your existing playbooks. Wireless security teams operating in environments where rogue access points and unauthorized clients pose immediate risk should deploy Kismet; its packet capture and real-time network mapping catch what perimeter tools miss. The tool has 2,072 GitHub stars and runs freely on Linux, making it ideal for resource-constrained teams that can't justify commercial wireless IDS licensing. Kismet prioritizes detection over prevention, so organizations needing automated response or integration with existing SIEM stacks will find it limited; it's best suited to teams comfortable with manual threat investigation workflows.
