Solid free options that can be used by small organizations and Non-for-profits.

Value for money weighed against functionality and performance.

The speed of getting up and running out-of-the-box.

The ability to tailor the tool to specific needs.

Tools that could scale according to the size of the task.

Compatibility with the most widely used network applications.

When compiling this list, our main criteria for ranking the tools were: Penetration testing is the most useful technique adopted by companies to safeguard their IT infrastructures. It has become mandatory to proactively protect important IT systems so that there are no data security breaches.

W3af A free, open-source web application scanner written for Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and Free BSD.Īs we become increasingly reliant on IT systems, the security risks are also increasing both in terms of quantity and scope.

Probely A web application vulnerability scanner that is intended for use during development.

Burp Suite A platform for testing web application weaknesses.

Aircrack-ng Well-known wireless network packet sniffer that is widely used by hackers.

Installs on Windows, Windows Server, Linux, Mac OS, and Free BSD.

Nessus Application vulnerability assessor available in free and paid versions.

Installs on Unix, macOS, Windows, DOS, BeOS, and OpenVMS.

John the Ripper Free, open-source password cracker, and hash type detector.

Installs on Windows, Linux, Unix, and Mac OS.

Wireshark A popular packet sniffer for wired and wireless networks.

Both install on Windows, Linux, BSD Unix, and Mac OS.

Nmap A free network vulnerability scanner with a front-end, called Zenmap.

Installs on Windows, Windows Server, RHEL, and Ubuntu.

Metasploit An open-source penetration testing framework that is available for free or in a paid Pro version that includes professional support.

ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus (FREE TRIAL) A that includes a vulnerability scanner and automated systems to patch discovered weaknesses.

Intruder (FREE TRIAL) A cloud-based vulnerability scanner with the option of human penetration testing.

Acunetix Web Vulnerability Scanner (GET DEMO) A website vulnerability scanner and penetration testing system for websites that can be installed on-site or accessed as a cloud service.

Netsparker Security Scanner EDITOR’S CHOICE Automated vulnerability scanning and penetration testing tool available from the cloud or for installation on Windows.

Tools that execute this process are called VAPT tools. There are VAPT tools for wi-fi network security testing as well as web application testing. Some VAPT tools assess a complete IT system or network, while some carry out an assessment for a specific niche. Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) is a process of securing computer systems from attackers by evaluating them to find loopholes and security vulnerabilities.

Windows system assesment tool