NetLimiter

Name: NetLimiter
Brand: NetLimiter

Windows tool for controlling, monitoring and limiting per-application internet bandwidth.

softwareNetwork MonitoringBandwidth ControlNetwork MonitoringTraffic Shaping

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Our Verdict

Best for

Windows users who need precise per-application bandwidth limits and traffic monitoring.

Skip if

You're not on Windows or want a free, always-on solution.

What is NetLimiter?

NetLimiter is a Windows utility for controlling and monitoring network traffic on a per-application basis, letting users set maximum upload/download speeds for individual apps, the whole system, specific users, or individual connections. It shows real-time traffic with live visualization and keeps long-term local statistics for historical analysis. Interactive rules can block selected applications from reaching the internet based on conditions like application path, domain, IP range or user account, and data quotas can automatically throttle or block traffic once a transfer limit is hit. It is sold under Locktime Software as a Pro edition with time-limited licenses covering one or two-year usage periods.

SpecificationsAI-estimated

deploymentDesktop App

open source❌ No

api available❌ No

support optionsDocumentation, email support

Key Features of NetLimiter

Sets maximum upload/download speeds per application, per user, or per individual connection.

Displays real-time network traffic with live graphs for every running app.

Stores long-term local statistics for historical bandwidth analysis.

Interactive rules can block specific applications from internet access based on path, domain, IP range or user.

Custom filters target traffic by application path, domain name or IP range.

Data quotas trigger automatic throttling or blocking once a transfer limit is reached.

Use Cases for NetLimiter

Prioritizing bandwidth for work apps

Cap background app bandwidth so video calls or downloads get priority.

Monitoring what's using your connection

Identify which applications are consuming the most bandwidth in real time.

Blocking unwanted network access

Prevent specific applications from reaching the internet using rule-based blocking.

Managing shared or metered connections

Set data quotas so no single app or user exceeds an internet data cap.

Pros & Cons of NetLimiter

Pros

Fine-grained per-application bandwidth control not found in most consumer tools
Real-time and historical traffic statistics in one app
Flexible rule and filter system for blocking or limiting specific traffic
Long track record as a dedicated Windows bandwidth manager

Cons

Windows only, no Mac or Linux version
Licensing is time-limited rather than a true perpetual purchase
Interface and rule configuration have a learning curve for non-technical users

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NetLimiter a subscription?

It uses time-limited licenses (1-2 year terms) rather than a monthly subscription or true perpetual license.

Does NetLimiter work on Mac?

No, it is Windows only.

Can NetLimiter block an app from the internet entirely?

Yes, via interactive rules that block applications based on defined conditions.

What is the difference between the standard and site license?

The site license covers multiple installations for organizations, while the standard license covers one device.

Pricing Overview

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Paid (Subscription)

Pro - Standard License

$29.95

Pro - Site License

$99.95

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