Install WireShark on Ubuntu Linux

WireShark is an invaluable tool in recording and reviewing network traffic, it was previously known as Ethereal and is available for a variety of platforms.

Installation can sometimes be hard to remember as use by non-superusers requires additional configuration in Linux.

  1. Add the repository and install:

    sudo add-apt-repository ppa:wireshark-dev/stable

    sudo apt-get update

    sudo apt-get install wireshark

  2. During installation, the following will appear, chose "Yes" for most instances.


    Should non-super users be able to capture packets - Yes / No?

  3. If you need to change the value you selected, you can always re-run the following:


    dpkg-reconfigure wireshark-common

  4. Add the user to the wireshark group so that they can capture traffic:


    add user to group:
    sudo usermod -a -G wireshark username
    id username

  5. If you need additional information, you can always RTFM:


    sudo vi /usr/share/doc/wireshark-common/README.Debian.

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