What is this?
NetStack Visualizer is an interactive educational tool designed to demystify network packets. It allows you to build a packet layer-by-layer, from the L2 Ethernet header up to the L7 application payload.
Our Philosophy
We believe the best way to learn networking is by seeing it. Instead of just reading about headers, MTU, and encapsulation, this tool lets you *see* how they work together.
Change a port, add a VLAN tag, or type in a payload, and you'll see the entire packet structure update in real-time. You'll see how headers add size, how the MTU limits your payload, and what fields like DSCP or EtherType actually *mean*.
Key Features
- Layer-by-Layer Building: Use the "Packet Build Mode" to see what a packet looks like at L2, L3, L4, or L7.
- Real-time Validation: Invalid IPs, MACs, or ports will be flagged instantly.
- MTU & Payload Calculation: See exactly how many bytes are left for your payload as you add headers, and get warned if you exceed the MTU.
- Scenario Presets: Quickly load common packet types like HTTP, DNS, ARP, or even professional AoIP standards like PTP and RTP.
- Interactive Info Panel: Hover over *any* field in the visualization (e.g., "TTL", "Dest Port") to get a detailed explanation of what it is and what it's for.