How to Install and Use Apple’s Network Link Conditioner Tool

How to Install and Use Apple's Network Link Conditioner Tool

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

If you’re developing an iOS application and need to simulate different network conditions, Apple’s Network Link Conditioner Tool is a valuable resource. This guide will walk you through the steps to locate and install this tool on your system.

Depending on your version of Xcode, the process to install the Network Link Conditioner Tool can vary. Here are a few methods based on different Xcode versions:

Xcode 14 and Later

For users with Xcode 14 and later, the Network Link Conditioner Tool is now integrated directly within Xcode. There’s no need to download additional tools. Simply navigate through Xcode’s menus to find and utilize the tool.

Xcode 8 to 13

If you’re using Xcode 8 through 13, follow these steps:

  • Open Xcode and go to Xcode > Open Developer Tool > More Developer Tools…
  • Download Additional Tools for Xcode from Apple’s Developer Downloads page.
  • Locate the downloaded DMG file, open it, and within the Hardware directory, find the Network Link Conditioner.prefPane.
  • Double-click the .prefPane file to install. If an older version is installed, remove it from /Library/PreferencePanes before proceeding.

Older Versions of Xcode

For Xcode versions prior to 8, you need to download Hardware IO Tools for Xcode from Apple’s download center. Follow the same installation steps as outlined above.

Once installed, the Network Link Conditioner can be accessed via System Preferences. Here, you can select from a variety of pre-configured network profiles or create custom profiles to simulate different network conditions.

Enhancing Your Testing with Repeato

While the Network Link Conditioner Tool is excellent for simulating network conditions, Repeato offers an advanced solution for comprehensive test automation. As a no-code test automation tool for iOS, Android, and web apps, Repeato uses computer vision and AI to create, run, and maintain automated tests efficiently. It supports data-driven testing and allows you to automate complex tasks with command line scripts or JavaScript code. For more information on how Repeato can streamline your testing process, visit our documentation page.

By integrating Repeato into your testing workflow, you can ensure your applications perform optimally under various network conditions and enhance your overall development process.

Check it out!

Like this article? there’s more where that came from!

Repeato

Documentation

Support

Legal

Repeato Reviews