Penetration Testing Tools: A Complete Guide

Penetration Testing, also known as “pen-testing” or "ethical hacking", plays a critical role in identifying vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications. To effectively conduct Penetration Testing, professionals rely on a diverse array of tools. Penetration Testing Tools empower security professionals to identify weaknesses, assess potential risks, and implement robust countermeasures. A survey by Statista found that in 2020, 44% of Cybersecurity professionals globally used Penetration Testing Tools as part of their security strategies.  

As the frequency and complexity of cyberattacks continue to rise, staying ahead of potential threats is paramount. In this blog, we'll explore the top 25 Penetration Testing Tools essential for protecting digital assets and key features. 

Table of Contents  

1) What are Penetration Testing Tools?   

2) Importance of Penetration Testing Tools  

3) 25 Best Penetration Testing Tools you can work with

     a) Nmap 

     b) Metasploit 

     c) Wireshark 

     d) Burp Suite 

     e) Nessus 

     f) Acunetix 

     g) BeEF 

     h) Kali Linux 

     i) Hashcat 

     j) OpenVAS 

4) Conclusion  

What are Penetration Testing Tools?   

Penetration Testing Tools are software applications designed to automate and assist in the process of ethical hacking. These tools simulate various types of cyberattacks to comprehensively evaluate a system's security posture. They help identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and potential entry points that attackers might exploit.   



 

Importance of Penetration Testing Tools  
 

 

Penetration Testing serves as a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Its importance lies in the following:   

a) Risk mitigation: Identifying vulnerabilities before they are exploited minimises the risk of data breaches and system compromises.  

b) Compliance: Many industries and regulations require regular security assessments to ensure compliance with security standards.  

c) Enhanced defence: By understanding vulnerabilities, organisations can fortify their defences and patch weak points.  

d) Cost savings: Detecting and addressing vulnerabilities early can save the significant costs associated with recovering from a successful cyberattack.  

25 Best Penetration Testing Tools you can work with

Penetration Testing Tools come in various forms, including commercial and open-source options, each offering unique features to address different aspects of security testing. Here are the popular Penetration Testing Tools used by experts:  

1) Nmap  

Nmap (Network Mapper) is a versatile and widely used network scanning tool. It excels at discovering devices, services, and open ports within a network. Nmap's robust scanning capabilities allow security professionals to gain insights into the network's structure, identify potential vulnerabilities, and map attack surfaces.  

Key Features:  

a) Host discovery and network scanning  

b) Service and version detection  

c) Scriptable interaction with target systems  

d) Network mapping and port scanning 

2) Metasploit  

Metasploit is a widely acclaimed Penetration Testing framework that is a go-to choice for many security professionals. Metasploit simplifies and automates the process of conducting Penetration Tests by providing a user-friendly interface for crafting and executing various types of attacks. This tool caters to both beginners and experienced Penetration Testers, making it an essential asset for any security toolkit.  

Key Features:  

a) Exploit development and testing  

b) Network and web application Penetration Testing  

c) Post-exploitation activities and payload delivery  

d) A comprehensive database of known vulnerabilities and exploits  

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3) Wireshark  

Wireshark is a popular open-source packet analyser that allows users to capture, analyse, and interpret network traffic. It provides a detailed view of data packets traversing a network, allowing security analysts to identify anomalies, detect unauthorised activities, and diagnose network issues.    

Key Features:   

a) Deep inspection of network traffic  

b) Support for a wide range of protocols  

c) Real-time and offline analysis capabilities  

d) Detailed packet-level analysis and filtering  

4) Burp Suite  

Burp Suite is a favourite among professionals specialising in web application security. This comprehensive toolkit offers a range of tools, including a proxy, scanner, and various utilities for web security testing. Burp Suite aids in identifying common web vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure configuration issues.  

Key Features:  

a) Web vulnerability scanning and assessment  

b) Intercepting proxy for modifying and analysing traffic  

c) Application-aware spidering and scanning  

d) Active and passive vulnerability scanning  


 

5) Nessus  

Nessus is a leading Penetration Testing tool known for its comprehensive scanning capabilities. It helps security teams identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and compliance issues across various assets, including networks, systems, and applications. Its reporting capabilities allow users to generate detailed reports for stakeholders, making it a valuable tool for both security practitioners and compliance professionals.  

Key Features:  

a) Vulnerability assessment and scanning  

b) Extensive database of known vulnerabilities  

c) Configuration and compliance audits  

d) Remediation suggestions and reporting  

6) Acunetix  

Acunetix is a specialised web vulnerability scanner that excels in detecting and addressing security issues in web applications. Acunetix also provides insights into the OWASP Top Ten vulnerabilities, helping organisations prioritise and remediate critical issues.   

Key Features:  

a) Web application security scanner  

b) Comprehensive scanning of HTML5, JavaScript, and single-page applications  

c) Detection of SQL injection, XSS, and other vulnerabilities  

d) Integration with popular issue-tracking tools  

7) BeEF  

BeEF (Browser Exploitation Framework) is a unique tool that targets web browsers using client-side attacks. It focuses on exploiting vulnerabilities in web browsers to establish control over a victim's browser and gather information.  

Key Features:  

a) Browser-based exploitation framework  

b) Targets web browsers' vulnerabilities and weaknesses  

c) Demonstrates the potential impact of client-side vulnerabilities  

d) Useful for understanding and mitigating browser-based attacks    

8) Kali Linux  

Kali Linux is a widely used Linux distribution designed for Penetration Testing, ethical hacking, and security analysis. It provides a robust environment for conducting comprehensive Penetration Tests, making it a staple in the toolkit of ethical hackers.  

Key Features:  

a) Debian-based Linux distribution designed for Penetration Testing  

b) Pre-installed with a vast array of security tools  

c) Easily customisable and extensible for specific testing needs  

d) Offers a comprehensive platform for various security assessments  

9) Hashcat  

Hashcat is a powerful password-cracking tool that specialises in recovering passwords from various hash formats. While not exclusively a social engineering tool, Hashcat can be used to assess the strength of passwords in a social engineering context. It supports multiple algorithms and attack modes, making it effective for cracking both individual and enterprise passwords.  

Key Features:  

a) Advanced password recovery and cracking tool  

b) Supports a wide range of hash algorithms and encryption methods  

c) Utilises GPU acceleration for faster cracking 

10) OpenVAS  

OpenVAS (Open Vulnerability Assessment System) is a feature-rich open-source vulnerability scanner. It helps in identifying security issues within networks and systems by performing comprehensive vulnerability assessments. It is particularly effective for regular vulnerability scanning and ensuring that systems remain up to date with the latest security patches.  

Key Features:  

a) Open-source vulnerability assessment system  

b) Extensive database of security checks and tests  

c) Regularly updated vulnerability feeds  

d) Scalable and customisable scanning capabilities  

11) Nikto  

Nikto is a command-line web vulnerability scanner that focuses on identifying common issues in web servers and applications. Nikto's simplicity and speed make it an efficient tool for quickly assessing the security posture of web servers.  

Key Features:  

a) Web server scanner that detects various vulnerabilities  

b) Checks for outdated software, server misconfigurations, and known vulnerabilities  

c) Generates comprehensive reports of scan results  

12) SQLMap  

SQL Map is a powerful open-source tool designed specifically for detecting and exploiting SQL injection vulnerabilities in web applications. Its capabilities include fingerprinting databases, dumping data, and executing custom SQL queries.  

Key Features:  

a) Specialised tool for automated SQL injection and database takeover  

b) Detects and exploits SQL injection vulnerabilities  

c) Provides options for data extraction, access escalation, and more  

d) Supports various database systems    

13) W3af  

W3af is an open-source web application attack and audit framework. W3af includes various plugins for discovering weaknesses like SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and more. While its primary focus is on technical vulnerabilities, these can be exploited with social engineering tactics.  

Key Features:  

a) Web application attack and audit framework  

b) Identifies and exploits web vulnerabilities  

c) Supports both automatic and manual exploitation  

d) Focuses on discovering vulnerabilities unique to web applications  

14) THC-Hydra  

THC-Hydra (also known as Hydra) is a fast and flexible password-cracking tool that supports numerous network protocols and attack modes. Although primarily used for brute force attacks, it can be integrated into social engineering campaigns to test the strength of passwords and assess an organisation's susceptibility to credential-based attacks.  

Key Features:  

a) Fast and flexible password-cracking tool  

b) Supports numerous protocols for brute force attacks  

c) Customisable dictionaries and attack combinations  

d) Multi-threaded for efficient password cracking  

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15) OWASP SAP  

OWASP SAP (Zed Attack Proxy) is a commonly used open-source tool for finding web application vulnerabilities. Its user-friendly interface and active community support make it a preferred choice for those new to web application security testing.  

Key Features:  

a) Web application security scanner and proxy  

b) Intercepting and modifying web traffic  

c) Automated and manual testing of web applications  

d) Scans for various vulnerabilities like XSS, SQL injection  

16) Cain and Abel  

Cain and Abel is a multifunctional network analysis and password recovery tool. It supports several network protocols and attack methods, including ARP poisoning, brute force attacks, and dictionary attacks. While primarily used for educational and research purposes, Cain and Abel offer valuable insights into network vulnerabilities.  

Key Features:  

a) Multipurpose tool for network security assessment  

b) Capable of recovering various types of passwords  

c) Sniffs network traffic for password hashes and cracks them  

d) Includes features for ARP poisoning and wireless network analysis  

17) WiFite  

WiFite is an automated script designed to target and attack wireless networks. It streamlines the process of identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi networks, making it particularly useful for beginners or those seeking a simple approach to wireless Penetration Testing.  

Key Features:  

a) Automated wireless network auditing tool  

b) Cracks WEP, WPA, and WPS keys  

c) Supports multiple wireless adapters and attack methods  

d) Useful for assessing the security of wireless networks   

18) Aircrack-ng  

Aircrack-ng is a versatile set of tools used for auditing wireless networks' security. Aircrack-ng's suite includes tools for packet capture, monitoring, and analysis, enabling security professionals to assess the security of wireless networks. It's a valuable tool for identifying weak encryption settings and potential vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi networks.   

Key Features:  

a) Wireless network cracking suite  

b) Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2-PSK encryption cracking  

c) Captures packets and performs dictionary attacks  

d) Assessing the security of wireless networks  

19) Vega  

Vega is an open-source web vulnerability scanner and testing platform. It provides a user-friendly interface for scanning web applications and identifying security issues. Vega supports various testing modules, including automated scanners, proxies, and analysis tools. Its extensibility through plugins makes it a versatile tool for both beginners and experienced testers.  

Key Features:  

a) Scans for SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and more  

b) Provides a comprehensive report of vulnerabilities found  

c) Suitable for both manual and automated security testing  

20) Wapiti  

Wapiti is a command-line tool for identifying vulnerabilities in web applications. It performs black-box testing by analysing the response of web applications to various payloads and input data. Wapiti's modular architecture allows for flexibility in selecting specific vulnerability checks, making it suitable for tailored testing scenarios.  

Key Features:  

a) Web application vulnerability scanner  

b) Identifies vulnerabilities like SQL injection and XSS  

c) Audits both static and dynamic web pages  

d) Generates reports with detailed information and recommendations  

21) WebScarab  

WebScarab is a Java-based tool focused on web application security. It acts as a proxy between the user and the application, allowing security professionals to intercept, modify, and analyse HTTP and HTTPS traffic. WebScarab provides modules for various tasks, including parameter manipulation, session tracking, and vulnerability scanning.  

Key Features:  

a) Monitors and manipulates web traffic between a browser and server  

b) Helps identify vulnerabilities and security issues  

c) Supports both manual and Automated Testing  

22) Reaver  

Reaver is a widely used tool designed for attacking WPS-enabled wireless routers and recovering WPA/WPA2 passphrases. It exploits the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) protocol vulnerabilities to obtain the Wi-Fi credentials.  

Key Features:  

a) Wireless Network Penetration Testing tool  

b) Exploits WPS vulnerabilities in WPA/WPA2 networks  

c) Automatically recovers WPA/WPA2 passphrases  

d) Targets the weaknesses in Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)  

23) Kismet  

Kismet is a versatile wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection system. It passively monitors wireless traffic, capturing packets from nearby Wi-Fi networks. Kismet provides insights into SSIDs, MAC addresses, encryption methods, and more.  

Key Features:  

a) Wireless network detection and intrusion detection system  

b) Scans for hidden and non-beaconing networks  

c) Identifies and tracks wireless devices and their activities  

d) Useful for monitoring Wi-Fi traffic and identifying threats  

24) BlueMaho  

BlueMaho is a specialised tool that focuses on Bluetooth security testing. It allows Penetration testers to discover and exploit vulnerabilities in Bluetooth-enabled devices like phones, headsets, and IoT devices.  

Key Features:  

a) Bluetooth Penetration Testing Tool  

b) Targets Bluetooth-enabled devices for security assessments  

c) Collects information, exploits vulnerabilities, and conducts attacks  

d) Demonstrates the risks associated with insecure Bluetooth devices  
 

25) Social-Engineer Toolkit (SET)  

The Social Engineer Toolkit (SET) is a powerful framework designed for social engineering attacks. It automates a wide range of attack vectors, including phishing, credential harvesting, and malicious USB attacks. SET enables Penetration Testers to craft convincing social engineering campaigns by generating phishing emails, malicious websites, and other lures. 

Key Features:  

a) Framework for simulating social engineering attacks  

b) Automate phishing, credential harvesting, and more  

c) Demonstrates vulnerabilities related to human behaviour  

d) Raises awareness about social engineering risks  

26) Intruder

Intruder is a powerful vulnerability scanner designed to find Cybersecurity weaknesses in your digital estate, providing detailed risk explanations and helps with their remediation before a breach can occur. It offers an automated approach to Penetration Testing, making it an ideal solution for companies of any size.

Featuring an extensive array of over 11,000 security checks, Intruder delivers enterprise-grade vulnerability scanning capabilities accessible to all users. Its checks encompass the detection of misconfigurations, missing patches, and prevalent web application vulnerabilities such as SQL injection and cross-site scripting.

It helps you save time by prioritising results based on their relevance and conducts proactive scans to identify the latest vulnerabilities, ensuring proactive defence against potential threats. Intruder also integrates seamlessly with all the major cloud providers as well as apps and integrations like Slack and Jira.

27) Astra

Astra's Pentest offers a comprehensive Penetration Testing solution inspired by hacker techniques, combining an intelligent automated vulnerability scanner with detailed manual Penetration Testing conducted by security experts.

Astra presents an engineer-friendly Pentest dashboard designed for visualising vulnerabilities, assigning them to team members, and fostering collaboration with security experts. The recently introduced AI-powered Astranaut Bot provides engineers with contextual insights to aid in resolving vulnerabilities effectively.

Here are some of the features of Astra Pentest:

a) Scans progressive web apps and single-page apps

b) Scan behind logged-in pages

c) Schedule automated scans for continuously scanning your application for vulnerabilities every time you release new code  

d) Intensive remediation support

e) Publicly verifiable pentest certificate

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28) John the Ripper

John the Ripper is another notable password-cracking tool compatible with various environments, with a primary focus on UNIX systems. Renowned for its exceptional speed, it stands out as one of the swiftest tools in its category. 

An exciting feature of John the Ripper is its provision of password hash and strength-checking code, which can be seamlessly integrated into custom software or code, adding a unique aspect to its functionality. The tool is available in both free and pro versions, and you can access it by visiting their website.

29) Invicti

Invicti stands out as an exact automated scanner capable of uncovering vulnerabilities like SQL Injection and Cross-site Scripting within web applications and web APIs. What sets Invicti apart is its distinctive ability to validate identified vulnerabilities, ensuring they are genuine and not false positives.

With this capability, users can save valuable time that would otherwise be spent manually verifying identified vulnerabilities post-scan completion. It is available on Windows software and as an online service; Invicti offers flexibility in its deployment options, catering to varied user preferences and needs.

30) Hexway  

Hexway offers users two self-hosted workspaces tailored for Penetration Testing (PTaaS) and vulnerability management. These environments are designed to streamline and centralise data from pentesting tools such as Nmap, Nessus, Burp, and Metasploit, enabling fast and efficient workflows.

Hexway caters to pentesters who recognise the importance of time efficiency, which is why its platform, Hive, have a comprehensive toolkit for handling security data and delivering real-time work results.

Some of its key features are: 

a) Integrations with tools (Nessus, Nmap, Burp, etc.)

b) Continuous scanning

c) Customer support

d) Checklists & pentest methodologies

e) All security data in one place

31) Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP)

ZAP is a fully free web application scanner and security vulnerability finder. It offers a comprehensive range of features including proxy intercepting capabilities, various scanners, and spiders.

32)Retina

Unlike specific applications or servers, Retina focuses on assessing the entire environment within a company or firm. Delivered as a comprehensive package known as Retina Community, this commercial product serves as a vulnerability management tool rather than a Penetration Testing solution. Its approach involves scheduled assessments and presenting detailed results to address security vulnerabilities effectively.

33) Canvas

CANVAS, developed by Immunity, is a popular tool boasting over 400 exploits and diverse payload options, making it valuable for various applications including web applications, wireless systems, and networks. It has a command-line and GUI interface that works best on Linux, Apple Mac OS X, and Microsoft Windows. 

Conclusion   

Penetration Testing Tools are indispensable assets in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. From commercial solutions to free and open-source options, the range of tools available caters to different testing needs. Incorporating these 25 best Penetration Testing Tools into your security methods can boost your defences and protect your digital assets against emerging cyber risks. 

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