Nmap

Nmap, or Network Mapper, is an open-source tool widely used for network discovery and security auditing. It allows security teams to scan large networks to identify hosts, open ports, and services, as well as to detect OS types and device configurations. Nmap’s flexibility in executing scans—from simple host discovery to complex scans with scripts—makes it highly adaptable for various network security tasks. Its results provide critical information that security professionals can use to understand network topologies, detect unauthorized devices, and identify potential entry points for attackers.