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Nmap Reviews

Vendor: Nmap
4.3 out of 5
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What is Nmap?

Nmap ("Network Mapper") is a free and open source (license) utility for network discovery and security auditing. Many systems and network administrators also find it useful for tasks such as network inventory, managing service upgrade schedules, and monitoring host or service uptime. Nmap uses raw IP packets in novel ways to determine what hosts are available on the network, what services (application name and version) those hosts are offering, what operating systems (and OS versions) they are running, what type of packet filters/firewalls are in use, and dozens of other characteristics. It was designed to rapidly scan large networks, but works fine against single hosts. Nmap runs on all major computer operating systems, and official binary packages are available for Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X. In addition to the classic command-line Nmap executable, the Nmap suite includes an advanced GUI and results viewer (Zenmap), a flexible data transfer, redirection, and debugging tool (Ncat), a utility for comparing scan results (Ndiff), and a packet generation and response analysis tool (Nping).

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Nmap is the #8 ranked solution in best Network Monitoring Tools. PeerSpot users give Nmap an average rating of 8.6 out of 10. Nmap is most commonly compared to Zabbix: Nmap vs Zabbix. Nmap is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 56% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a manufacturing company, accounting for 15% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Nmap
December 2025
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Nmap mindshare

As of December 2025, the mindshare of Nmap in the Network Monitoring Software category stands at 0.6%, up from 0.5% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Network Monitoring Software Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Nmap0.6%
Zabbix8.6%
SolarWinds NPM3.7%
Other87.1%
Network Monitoring Software

PeerResearch reports based on Nmap reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryNetwork Monitoring SoftwareDec 29, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonNmap vs ZabbixDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonNmap vs Auvik Network Management (ANM)Dec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonNmap vs DatadogDec 29, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Zabbix4.28.6%95%108 interviewsAdd to research
SolarWinds NPM4.13.7%92%160 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers

Valuable Features

Nmap offers advanced port and vulnerability scanning, script capabilities, and identifies network status. Users value its ability to detect services, scan UDP ports, and integrate with tools like Nessus. It supports comprehensive network discovery and auditing, displaying detailed results on hosts, protocols, and traffic. Users find it powerful for troubleshooting security issues without heavy resource usage and appreciate its flexibility in automation and command-line interface usability.
  • "The solution detects the operating systems, which makes testing the software much easier before making the payload."
  • "Nmap is mostly helpful during compliance checks. We run the scanner to see how many devices are on our network and find vulnerabilities in those that aren't compliant. We also use it monthly to scan our network and identify devices that aren't connected properly. This helps us detect any issues related to the operating systems of these devices."
  • "The most valuable feature of the solution for security audits stems from the fact that it serves as a powerful tool with the ability to scan a large number of ports."

Room for Improvement

Nmap users suggest improvements such as a graphical user interface to enhance usability and an increase in scanning speed. They desire features for better network insight and vulnerability assessment like those provided by competitor tools. Users seek a more accessible experience for beginners and additional API functionalities. Some suggest reduction in pricing, stability enhancements, and more licenses for extended scan capabilities. Overall, they propose community-driven updates and enhanced third-party library evaluations.
  • "The solution is not that easy for a beginner to learn."
  • "The tool's license limits the number of scans it can perform. Improving the license model could benefit customers by allowing more scans for compliance and other purposes."
  • "There are concerns with the stability of the product, making it an area where improvements are required."

Pricing

The pricing, setup cost, and licensing for Nmap vary depending on the version. There is a free version available, which is suitable for users who do not require advanced troubleshooting tools. However, for those who need additional support or more features, there are specific services that can be purchased, including a license for a professional version. 

  • "I am using the free version of Nmap."
  • "The product's pricing is fine. The licensing options for Nmap include perpetual licenses and volume-based licenses. For perpetual licenses, once you purchase it, there's no need to invest in renewals. And for volume-based licenses, enterprise companies can use it multiple times based on the number of users or devices they need to scan. It's a pay-as-you-go model, similar to how you pay for what you use."
  • "Nmap is an open-source product. You don't need a license to install it."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations primarily use Nmap for network security, vulnerability assessment, and monitoring. They employ it to scan network environments, identify open ports, discover devices, and gather MAC addresses. It assists in checking network communications, identifying operating systems, and determining available services. Nmap also aids in uncovering vulnerabilities, conducting reconnaissance, and validating applications externally. It provides essential information for addressing potential security threats, assisting in network inventory management, and establishing port configurations in various network environments.

Service and Support

Nmap support is primarily community-driven, with users relying on active forums and documentation. Many have not contacted technical support due to the extensive resources available online and through community interaction. Enterprise users may find additional options, but typical users typically resolve issues through collaborative environments. The absence of direct support channels does not hinder everyday use, as community guidance suffices for most users. Nmap, being open-source, benefits from a dedicated user and developer network.

Deployment

Nmap's initial setup is predominantly simple and straightforward. Users report quick installation processes, often completed in minutes, with some complexity noted for beginners or those unfamiliar with command-line tools. Proper documentation aids in deployment, especially on Linux where a single command suffices. While newcomers may face challenges, experienced users find it manageable. Some mention integration with specific systems and the ease of setting configuration parameters, highlighting Nmap's robust functionality despite minor adaptability concerns.

Scalability

Nmap is highly scalable, handling networks with thousands of machines effectively. Many users find it easy to scale, without issues. Although cloud features are lacking, it remains robust. Users in various company sizes successfully manage large network scans, controlling speed efficiently. Since Nmap operates as an individual setup, scalability relies on server specifications. Some rate its features between seven to ten out of ten, noting its suitability for small enterprises and forensic testing.

Stability

Nmap is described as stable, with many rating its stability between eight to ten out of ten. Users report no significant issues, mentioning reliable performance across various platforms, especially Linux. While its free license has limitations like manual updates, it doesn't impact stability for most. Some users note occasional issues on Windows, such as freezing during prolonged sessions. However, continuous enhancements keep it robust and dependable for most applications.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Nmap Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business9
Midsize Enterprise1
Large Enterprise11
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business44
Midsize Enterprise25
Large Enterprise88
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Manufacturing Company
15%
Retailer
9%
Computer Software Company
8%
Educational Organization
8%
Government
8%
University
8%
Financial Services Firm
4%
Comms Service Provider
4%
Construction Company
4%
Insurance Company
4%
Non Profit
3%
Outsourcing Company
3%
Performing Arts
3%
Real Estate/Law Firm
3%
Healthcare Company
3%
Media Company
2%
Legal Firm
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Energy/Utilities Company
1%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Wellness & Fitness Company
1%
Logistics Company
1%
Hospitality Company
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Training & Coaching Company
1%

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Nmap customers

Lockheed Martin, Eastern Bank Boston, Perspecta, Harris Corporation, Discovery Communication

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Product Categories

Product Categories
Network Monitoring Software

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Nmap Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
CEO at a tech services company with 11-50 employees4.0I used Nmap to verify communication protocols on a restricted government network, proving no illegal activity. Its valuable real-time reporting tracks traffic effectively, though investment could enhance its capabilities. Nmap's open-source nature suits budget-restricted projects despite competition from commercial tools.
Cyber Security Consultant - APAC at Logon Software4.5I use Nmap for vulnerability scanning to identify issues in our network, especially for compliance checks. Its valuable features include port and OS detection. However, the license limits scan frequency, which could be improved for better utility.
Junior Executive - Information Security at sunshine holdings4.5I use Nmap for network inventory management, scanning ports and IP addresses to identify vulnerabilities. Its most valuable feature is the ability to scan numerous ports for security audits. While it's open-source, I notice stability issues needing improvement.
Cyber Security and IT Head at a outsourcing company with 51-200 employees3.5I manage a large network using Nmap to identify vulnerabilities by scanning devices and checking ports. While it's effective in monitoring, it lacks a GUI and can be slow. Compared to tools like Wireshark and Metasploit, it’s unmatched.
Senior Manager Network Design at MEEZA, Managed IT Services Provider4.5I find Nmap to be a stable vulnerability assessment tool that effectively scans systems for vulnerabilities, providing clear reports with recommendations. However, it would be beneficial if the free license offered a broader range of features.
Team Lead - Cyber Security & Compliance at Al Tuwairqi Group3.5We use Nmap for network monitoring to identify network status and configurations. While user-friendly, it lacks advanced features compared to Wireshark. Nmap hasn't evolved in functionality and doesn't offer updates for expanded information or enhance network communication insights.
Information Technology Consultant at a outsourcing company with 501-1,000 employees3.5I use Nmap for network scanning to identify devices and assess their status. It's invaluable for network discovery and security auditing. Although it's open-source and looks outdated, it's cost-effective and highly effective when used by knowledgeable users.
Security Analyst at a energy/utilities company with 1,001-5,000 employees5.0In my experience, Nmap is excellent for network integration and mapping tasks due to its scripts that identify operating systems and available ports. It's free and saves time in pinpointing vulnerabilities, although it could benefit from improved scanning speed.