PacketShield vs simplewall
PacketShield vs simplewall
simplewall is a free, open-source and very lightweight firewall that configures the Windows Filtering Platform (WFP). PacketShield also uses WFP, but adds a live view of which apps are talking to which domains and lets you block by domain name instead of IP addresses.
Try PacketShield free| Feature | PacketShield | simplewall |
|---|---|---|
| Platforms | Windows 10/11 and Linux | Windows |
| Engine | WFP with Windows Firewall fallback | WFP |
| Live traffic and domains per app | Yes | Limited |
| Block by domain and wildcard | Yes | Rules are IP/port based |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Price | Free during public beta | Free |
Information about other products is general and may change; check each vendor for current details.
Choose simplewall if…
- You want a free, open-source tool and are comfortable with a technical interface.
- You prefer a deny-by-default setup managed rule by rule.
Choose PacketShield if…
- You want to see in real time which apps connect to which domains.
- You want to block google.com or *.ads.com without looking up IP addresses.
- You want the same tool on Windows and Linux.
Frequently asked questions
Do PacketShield and simplewall conflict?
Both write WFP filters, so running them together is not recommended. Pick one as your main firewall.
Can simplewall block by domain?
simplewall rules are based on apps, IPs and ports. PacketShield resolves domains and wildcards for you and keeps the rules updated.
Is PacketShield free?
Yes, PacketShield is free during the public beta.