Libnet vs Pig: 2026 Comparison
Libnet is a free offensive security tool. Pig is a free offensive security tool. Compare features, ratings, integrations, and community reviews side by side to find the best offensive security fit for your security stack.
CST VerdictBased on our analysis of available product data, here is our conclusion:
Network penetration testers and red teamers need Libnet for packet crafting that doesn't require context-switching between tools; the 956 GitHub stars reflect sustained adoption among practitioners who value a lightweight API over monolithic frameworks. Its simplicity means you're writing exploit code faster than frameworks that bundle unnecessary abstraction layers, though you'll need to handle payload validation yourself rather than relying on built-in guardrails. Skip this if your team prefers GUI-driven traffic generation or needs extensive logging and compliance reporting baked in.
Network security teams validating IDS/IPS signatures and testing evasion techniques will find Pig's packet crafting speed and low overhead unmatched for lab work; its 469 GitHub stars reflect active use among offensive security practitioners who need granular control over Linux packet construction. The tool excels at controlled, repeatable attack simulation where you own the test environment and understand what you're crafting. Skip Pig if you need GUI-driven workflows, cross-platform support, or a tool that doubles as a general network diagnostic utility; it's purpose-built for command-line operators who already think in packet layers.
