mtr: The unassuming network tool

Take too quick a look at mtr and you’ll miss out on a terrific little tool for the console.

I’d like to give a brief explanation of what mtr does, but more than likely I would leave something important out. The man page suggests it’s a combination of traceroute and ping, but my hunch is it’s useful beyond that.

My favorite features? I’m glad you asked. …

1. adjustable refresh rate
2. three different display modes
3. adjustable field order
4. two different detail modes

… and there’s a lot more, if you poke around a little bit.

Programs like mtr are definite keepers. I may not use it very much — I think once a month is my going rate — but it’s fun to watch, and tinker with.