NetAlly EtherScope nXG Reviews

Name: NetAlly EtherScope nXG
Brand: NetAlly
Rating: 4.4 (23 reviews)

4.4 out of 5

23 reviews
100% willing to recommend

What is NetAlly EtherScope nXG?

Multi-technology, all-in-one handheld network tester that enables engineers and technicians to get more done faster, from deployment to maintenance and documentation of their ever-changing Wi-Fi and Ethernet access networks.

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NetAlly EtherScope nXG is the #1 ranked solution in top Network Diagnostics solutions and top Network Troubleshooting solutions. PeerSpot users give NetAlly EtherScope nXG an average rating of 8.8 out of 10. Based on the analysis of the 23 most recent NetAlly EtherScope nXG reviews, the overall sentiment is positive, with a sentiment score of 7.7. (The highest in the category). NetAlly EtherScope nXG is most commonly compared to LinkSprinter: NetAlly EtherScope nXG vs LinkSprinter. NetAlly EtherScope nXG is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 50% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 20% of all views.

Buyer's Guide

NetAlly EtherScope nXG

December 2024

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Featured reviews

Doug Dickerson

Manager at Northwestern

It would be helpful if this product interfaced with AirWave. The battery life should be improved. The real negative to the product is the horrible battery life. We had hoped for it to be able to deliver configurations to our network switches, and I think they're developing something for that. However, it doesn't do that now. We were hoping that we would, as we replace or refresh network components, be able to use this tool to push a config file to the switch. For example, the Aruba switches that we're deploying come with a Bluetooth function where we can push configs from our phones. It would be much more convenient to use this device, rather than using our personal cell phones to do it. I think that the capability is there, but it just hasn't been figured out yet.

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Chase McGee

Cyber Range Engineer 2 at Tech Data Limited

My favorite features, ones that I have used continuously almost every single day, are the Link-Live Cloud Service and the AirMapper Site Survey. The latter is absolutely essential to almost every business I go to. I move around the building and mark where I've been and then, when I get back to my desk, the information is on the dashboard, showing me exactly where devices are. I can see, "Okay, here are printers that shouldn't be there," and I can relocate them better. Or I can check whether the WiFi signal is strong at a given spot and whether I need another access point. The AirMapper Site Survey app is one of the biggest highlights of this product. When somebody asks me, "Why should I use this device?" it's the first thing I show them, and they usually love it. Its ability to gather WiFi site survey data is absolutely amazing. You can collect so many different things including using its spectrum analyzer. You can also use the directional antenna and other features to detect the WiFi signal, its strength and where things are at. If devices are having an issue, you can figure out the cause. Maybe it is behind a wall that is not allowing WiFi signals and you can determine, "Hey, I need another access point here to get my users the internet coverage they need." The AirMapper Site Survey Heat Maps were one of the first things that I used the device for. I wanted to see the WiFi signals, where everything was at, and what was the most used. That was able to help me determine that I needed a new access point inside our center for demos. We were getting a lot of drops there and I figured out that the coverage was not good. We had to get a replacement access point. Overall, the EtherScope nXG is easy to use for less skilled staff but it has deep diagnostics for experts. I had no experience when I first received this device. I had no training and, in less than a week, I was fully proficient with it. When I really wanted to do a deep dive and figure out everything about it through the Link-Live Cloud Service, I had so much data. It made my life a lot easier.

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James_Stout

IT Director at JVS Consulting

I rate EtherScope nine out of 10 for scalability. You could cover a company with a massive infrastructure with four of these devices. You can send it to the site, plug it in wherever you are, and get the test results back. I can mail it to the customer and talk them through it over the phone.

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NetAlly EtherScope nXG mindshare

Product category:

As of December 2024, the mindshare of NetAlly EtherScope nXG in the Network Diagnostics category stands at 7.9%, up from 7.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Network Diagnostics

PeerAnalyst reports

Type	Title	Date
Category	Network Diagnostics	Dec 26, 2024	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Dec 26, 2024	Download
Comparison	NetAlly EtherScope nXG vs LinkSprinter	Dec 26, 2024	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
LinkSprinter	4.5	9.9%	100%	3 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

NetAlly EtherScope nXG's most valuable features include multi-technology functionality, AutoTest, 10Gb capability, compact size, remote troubleshooting, AirMapper Site Survey, deep diagnostics, and ease of use. It allows rapid WiFi and wired Ethernet analysis, packet captures, traffic analysis, channel utilization, visualizing performance metrics, iPerf testing, and sharing results via Link-Live Cloud Service. It provides consistent testing, identifies switch port ID, performs heat maps, and is portable.

"One of the standout features is its ability to serve as an advanced handheld packet analyzer. It excels in discovering both wired and wireless networks and automatically documenting them, which is really valuable. The tool provides insights from the physical layer up to layer seven, including HTTP, which helps diagnose network issues effectively. This automated documentation feature sets NetAlly apart from competitors, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in network management and recommendations. When the EtherScope nXG identifies a problem, it alerts us, allowing us to use more advanced tools for deeper analysis.Regarding PoE testing capabilities, I haven't explored them extensively, but I'm aware of their importance, especially for detecting issues like overloading switches with too many PoE devices. Integrators are becoming more cautious about these issues, but specialized tools like those from other vendors may offer features like microburst dashboards, which EtherScope nXG currently doesn't provide."
"Being able to do a Wi-Fi walk-around survey with a handheld tool is one of the most valuable features of NetAlly EtherScope nXG."
"I like EtherScope's WiFi scanning, heat map, and load testing. It's an excellent tool that sets you straight, so you don't need to beat around the bush or wait for other people. It's easy to share the reports with other people."

Room for Improvement

NetAlly EtherScope nXG users highlight battery life, need for higher-speed testing, and better classification of traffic. Integration into automated environments and detailed 802.11ax data are desirable. Users express issues with the 5 GHz radio, remote reset capabilities, and test result inconsistencies. The user interface is not intuitive, and training is extensive. They call for enhancements in test profile management, topology mapping, and AirMapper usability. Adding spectrum analysis and linking with AirWave are also suggested.

"The main area for improvement that stands out is the lack of a microburst dashboard, which some other vendors offer. However, NetAlly has carved out its niche by focusing on comprehensive network analysis up to layer seven, including automatic network mapping with tools like CyberScope. While there may be some features missing compared to competitors, NetAlly remains strong in its specialized market, providing robust solutions like EtherScope for detailed customer scans, despite being on the pricier side."
"NetAlly EtherScope nXG's reporting and table qualification could be improved."
"The reporting could be better, with more accurate measurements of loss over cables, impedance, etc. The mapping also needs to be improved. You should be able to do free formatting of the topology."

ROI

NetAlly EtherScope nXG delivers significant ROI by saving time on-site, reducing troubleshooting hours, and consolidating multiple tools into one device. It enhances productivity, cuts costs through faster problem resolution, and offers quick Wi-Fi assessments. Users report it justifies its cost for medium to large enterprises, providing value even within the first use. Proper training maximizes its benefits, making it a crucial asset for network tasks, especially in high-stakes environments.

Pricing

NetAlly EtherScope nXG's pricing is considered high but justified by its extensive capabilities and regular updates. Enterprises find value in its bundled deals and cost-saving features compared to multiple standalone tools. Some feel the support and licensing costs add up, though the tool's ROI is seen as favorable. Reduced pricing or more discounts for bulk purchases would be appreciated. Despite its high cost, users agree on EtherScope’s significant utility and performance benefits.

"In terms of pricing, EtherScope isn't cheap. It's a significant investment, and not a budget option."
"NetAlly EtherScope nXG is priced too much and needs to come down by about 15 percent of its current price."
"It is relatively high-priced and it should certainly not get any more expensive. I would like it to be $1,000 less, and I think everyone would say that. And of course, maintenance is also a recurring cost."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily use NetAlly EtherScope nXG for troubleshooting, performance testing, and verification of both wired and wireless networks. Common tasks include testing WiFi routers, 10 gigabit equipment, cable length and quality, and network ports. It is also used for wireless surveys, network validation, and system installations. The tool helps confirm network performance and identify issues in various environments, making it invaluable for network consultants, IT integrators, and managed service providers.

Service and Support

NetAlly EtherScope nXG's customer service and support are praised for being excellent, fast, and helpful. Users appreciate the responsive and knowledgeable technical support, with a high rating for their accessibility and proactive problem-solving. Some users rely on manuals and online resources, while others value direct communication with developers. The company's sales and support teams are noted for their engagement and timely assistance. Regular updates and maintenance are emphasized as crucial by satisfied customers.

Deployment

Users experienced a short learning curve with NetAlly EtherScope nXG's initial setup. Training sessions and tutorials were helpful. Some felt the device was easy to use even without comprehensive training. Manuals and documentation were adequate but could benefit from more detailed videos. Basic functions were quickly learned, and setup was straightforward. More experienced users found higher-end features robust but manageable. Initial familiarity with networking impacted ease of use.

Scalability

NetAlly EtherScope nXG is considered scalable by users. Some express plans to increase usage, while others maintain current usage levels. The device is utilized by various professionals across multiple roles. It's praised for its scalability, flexibility, and remote access capabilities but noted as expensive by some. The presence of dedicated WiFi and wired management ports is highlighted as beneficial. The absence of additional features could influence the decision to increase use.

Stability

Users praise NetAlly EtherScope nXG for its stability and reliability. Many report no crashes or issues, highlighting rock-solid performance and improved stability over previous versions. Some users mention rare hardware problems, but these are considered unique cases. Most find the firmware updates easy to run and experience no serious bugs. Despite occasional minor issues like the script locking up or battery life concerns, it remains a dependable tool for networking tasks.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our NetAlly EtherScope nXG Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

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Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

20%

Comms Service Provider

Government

Manufacturing Company

Healthcare Company

Educational Organization

University

Financial Services Firm

Non Profit

Retailer

Hospitality Company

Insurance Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Energy/Utilities Company

Construction Company

Media Company

Performing Arts

Transportation Company

Real Estate/Law Firm

Wholesaler/Distributor

Aerospace/Defense Firm

Outsourcing Company

Consumer Goods Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

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Learn more about NetAlly EtherScope nXG

The Etherscope nXG is the the industry’s first handheld analyzer for Wi-Fi 6/6E surveying (with AirMapper™ Site Survey), troubleshooting, and analysis.

NetAlly EtherScope nXG was previously known as EtherScope nXG, EtherScope, netAlly EtherScope, OptiView XG.