SOFTWARE LICENSE GUIDE
Snort
Snort is a free and open-source network intrusion detection and prevention system (IDS/IPS). It is licensed under the GNU General Public License v2 (GPLv2).
What it does
It performs real-time traffic analysis and packet logging on IP networks, detecting various attacks, probes, and suspicious activities.
Who it may suit
Network administrators, security professionals, and organizations needing a robust, free, and open-source solution for network intrusion detection and prevention.
Free tier and license
As a free, open-source project, the core software is available without cost.
Limitations to check
None specified for the core software. Users should be aware that commercial support or advanced rule sets might have associated costs from third parties.
Licensing notes
Snort is a free, open-source network intrusion detection and prevention system licensed under the GNU General Public License v2 (GPLv2).
Verification details
Last licensing verification recorded: 2026-10-28.
Directory record last updated: 2026-08-19. These are separate dates: a record update does not necessarily mean the publisher's terms changed.
AI-assisted summaries may be incomplete or outdated. Confirm licensing, pricing, and commercial-use rights in the official sources before making a business decision.
Frequently asked questions
Is Snort free to use for commercial purposes?
Yes, Snort is free and open-source under the GPLv2 license, which permits commercial use.
What is Snort primarily used for?
Snort is primarily used as a network intrusion detection and prevention system (IDS/IPS) for real-time traffic analysis.
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