25 Best Vulnerability Scanning Software Reviewed in 2025
Best Vulnerability Scanning Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 25 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Keeping your systems secure is a top priority. As a tech expert, you know the challenges of protecting your data from threats. Vulnerability scanning software can be a key tool to help your team identify and address potential risks before they become problems.
I've spent years testing and reviewing software, and I understand the importance of finding solutions that truly work. In this article, I'll share my unbiased picks of the best vulnerability scanning tools on the market.
You'll discover how these tools can help safeguard your systems and fit seamlessly into your existing workflows. Let's find the right solution for your needs together.
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Best Vulnerability Scanning Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top vulnerability scanning software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for web server scanning | Free demo available | Free to use | Website | |
| 2 | Best for network discovery | Open-source | Free to use | Website | |
| 3 | Best for configuration management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for small businesses | 7-day free trial + free demo | From $6,390/license/year | Website | |
| 5 | Best for network analysis | Not available | Free to use | Website | |
| 6 | Best for open-source enthusiasts | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for cloud environments | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for patch management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for real-time monitoring | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for security beginners | Free guide available | Free to use | Website |
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Deel
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
New Relic
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.3 -
Checkmk
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7
Best Vulnerability Scanning Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best vulnerability scanning software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Nikto is an open-source web server scanner aimed at IT security professionals who need to identify vulnerabilities in web servers. It performs comprehensive tests against web servers to detect outdated software, server misconfigurations, and potential security threats.
Why I picked Nikto: It's particularly effective for web server scanning, offering extensive tests to uncover vulnerabilities. Nikto provides detailed reports on outdated server components and potential security risks. It also checks for server configuration issues that could expose your systems to attacks. Its open-source nature allows you to customize the tool to fit your specific needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include support for multiple web server platforms, which allows you to scan a variety of server types. You can use its automated scanning capabilities to quickly assess server vulnerabilities. The tool also provides detailed reports that help you understand the security posture of your web servers.
Integrations include Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP ZAP, Nessus, OpenVAS, Acunetix, QualysGuard, Tenable.io, Rapid7 InsightVM, and IBM AppScan.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive web server tests
- Customizable open-source tool
- Detailed vulnerability reports
Cons:
- Limited user interface
- No real-time monitoring
Nmap is a network discovery and security auditing tool used by IT professionals and network administrators. It helps identify devices on a network and assesses their security status, making it essential for network mapping and vulnerability detection.
Why I picked Nmap: It's highly regarded for its network discovery capabilities. Nmap offers a wide range of scanning options, including TCP/IP fingerprinting to identify operating systems. The tool's scripting engine allows you to tailor scans for specific vulnerabilities. Its command-line interface provides flexibility and control for advanced users.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include TCP/IP fingerprinting, which helps identify operating systems and devices on your network. You can use its scripting engine to customize scans for specific network vulnerabilities. The tool also provides detailed network maps, giving you a comprehensive view of your network's architecture.
Integrations include Metasploit, Nessus, OpenVAS, Wireshark, Splunk, Snort, Nagios, Zabbix, SolarWinds, and AlienVault.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable scripting engine
- Detailed network maps
- Command-line flexibility
Cons:
- Limited graphical interface
- No built-in reporting
Tripwire is a security and compliance tool designed for IT teams focused on maintaining system integrity and configuration management. It helps monitor and detect changes in system configurations, ensuring compliance with security policies.
Why I picked Tripwire: It's ideal for configuration management due to its detailed change auditing capabilities. Tripwire continuously monitors your systems for unauthorized changes that could pose security risks. The tool provides comprehensive reports to help your team maintain compliance with industry standards. Its ability to integrate with various platforms makes it versatile for different IT environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time change detection, which alerts you to unauthorized changes. You can use its detailed reporting to ensure compliance with security policies. The tool also offers customizable policy management to suit your organization's specific needs.
Integrations include Splunk, ServiceNow, IBM QRadar, AWS, Azure, Puppet, Chef, Ansible, McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator, and Cisco.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time change monitoring
- Detailed compliance reports
- Customizable policy management
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Limited offline functionality
Nessus is a vulnerability scanning tool designed for small businesses to identify and manage security threats. It performs network security assessments and vulnerability management, making it an essential tool for cybersecurity professionals.
Why I picked Nessus: Its focus on small businesses differentiates it from other solutions. Nessus offers unlimited vulnerability assessments and supports various scoring systems like CVSS v4. It provides configuration and compliance audits, which are crucial for small businesses looking to maintain security standards. The tool's customizable reports make it easy for you to understand and act on the findings.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include live results that provide real-time updates on vulnerabilities. You can conduct configuration and compliance audits to ensure your systems meet industry standards. The tool also offers customizable reporting, allowing you to tailor the information to your needs.
Integrations include Splunk, ServiceNow, AWS Security Hub, Azure Security Center, IBM QRadar, McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator, Cisco SecureX, Fortinet FortiSIEM, LogRhythm, and Palo Alto Networks Cortex XSOAR.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Unlimited assessments
- Customizable reports
- Advanced support options
Cons:
- High learning curve
- Additional cost for support
Wireshark is a network protocol analyzer designed for IT professionals and network administrators. It helps capture and analyze network traffic, making it essential for diagnosing network issues and ensuring security.
Why I picked Wireshark: Its focus on network analysis sets it apart. Wireshark offers detailed packet information and supports a wide range of protocols. The tool provides color-coded packet analysis, which helps you quickly identify issues. Its real-time capture and offline analysis capabilities make it versatile for various networking needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include extensive protocol support, allowing you to analyze a wide range of network protocols. You can use its real-time capture feature to monitor network traffic as it occurs. The tool also offers advanced filtering options to help you pinpoint specific data.
Integrations include TShark, WinPcap, USBPcap, AirPcap, CloudShark, NetworkMiner, PcapNG, CapLoader, NetFlow, and Packet Sender.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive protocol support
- Real-time packet capture
- Advanced filtering options
Cons:
- Requires network knowledge
- Complex interface
OpenVAS is an open-source vulnerability scanning tool aimed at security professionals and enthusiasts. It helps identify and manage vulnerabilities across various systems, making it valuable for organizations looking to enhance their security posture.
Why I picked OpenVAS: It's a favorite among open-source enthusiasts due to its flexibility and community-driven development. OpenVAS offers extensive vulnerability testing capabilities and supports a wide range of operating systems. Its regular updates ensure that you have the latest vulnerability checks. The tool's open-source nature allows for customization to suit your specific needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a wide range of vulnerability tests, which are regularly updated to keep up with new threats. You can customize the scan configurations to fit your specific requirements. The tool also supports various operating systems, making it versatile for different environments.
Integrations include Nagios, OTRS, Splunk, Elasticsearch, Kibana, Logstash, Graylog, Grafana, Prometheus, and Checkmk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Open-source flexibility
- Regular vulnerability updates
- Supports multiple operating systems
Cons:
- Limited documentation
- Requires technical expertise
QualysGuard is a cloud-based vulnerability management tool designed for enterprises looking to secure their IT environments. It serves IT security teams by providing continuous monitoring and assessment of network vulnerabilities.
Why I picked QualysGuard: It excels in cloud environments with its cloud-native architecture, allowing easy deployment and scalability. QualysGuard offers real-time visibility into your IT assets and vulnerabilities. Its automated scans and detailed reporting help your team quickly identify and address security issues. The tool's centralized dashboard provides a comprehensive view of your security posture.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time asset discovery, which helps you keep track of all your IT assets. You can use its automated scanning capabilities to regularly check for vulnerabilities. The tool also provides detailed compliance reporting to help meet industry standards.
Integrations include ServiceNow, Splunk, IBM QRadar, AWS Security Hub, Microsoft Azure, Tenable, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, McAfee, and Cisco.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-native architecture
- Real-time visibility
- Automated vulnerability scans
Cons:
- Complex configuration
- Requires internet access
GFI LanGuard is a network security scanner designed for IT administrators and security teams. It helps manage patch deployments, vulnerability assessments, and network auditing, ensuring systems are up-to-date and secure.
Why I picked GFI LanGuard: It's particularly effective for patch management, offering automated patch deployment across various operating systems. GFI LanGuard conducts thorough vulnerability assessments to identify potential security threats. The tool's network auditing feature provides insights into network configurations and security settings. It also offers detailed reports to help your team understand and address security issues efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated patch management, which simplifies the process of keeping your systems updated. You can use its network auditing capabilities to review configurations and security settings. The tool also provides detailed vulnerability assessments to identify and mitigate potential threats.
Integrations include Microsoft SCCM, Active Directory, VMware, Citrix, Oracle, SQL Server, Windows Server Update Services, Symantec, McAfee, and Cisco.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated patch deployment
- Comprehensive network auditing
- Detailed vulnerability assessments
Cons:
- High resource consumption
- Limited scalability for large networks
Nexpose is a vulnerability management tool designed for IT security teams looking to monitor their networks in real-time. It helps identify vulnerabilities and provides actionable insights to enhance network security.
Why I picked Nexpose: Its real-time monitoring capabilities make it a strong choice for dynamic IT environments. Nexpose offers adaptive security features that automatically adjust to changes in your network. The tool provides risk scores for vulnerabilities, helping you prioritize what needs attention. Its integration with Metasploit allows for deeper security assessments and testing.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include adaptive security, which automatically adjusts to network changes. You can use its risk scoring to prioritize vulnerabilities and focus on the most critical issues. The tool also offers detailed reporting that helps you understand your security posture.
Integrations include ServiceNow, Splunk, IBM QRadar, Microsoft Azure, AWS, McAfee ePolicy Orchestrator, Cisco Firepower, Fortinet FortiGate, Palo Alto Networks, and Symantec.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time monitoring
- Adaptive security features
- Detailed risk scoring
Cons:
- High resource consumption
- Steep learning curve
ZAP (Zed Attack Proxy) is an open-source web application security scanner aimed at developers and testers new to security testing. It helps identify vulnerabilities in web applications, making it an essential tool for learning and improving web security practices.
Why I picked ZAP: It's ideal for security beginners due to its user-friendly interface and comprehensive documentation. ZAP offers automated scanners and a set of tools that allow you to manually find security vulnerabilities. The tool's passive scanning feature helps identify issues without affecting the application. Its community-driven development ensures frequent updates and support for the latest security threats.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated scanning, which allows your team to quickly identify vulnerabilities. You can use its passive scanning to detect issues without impacting your applications. The tool also offers a spidering feature to explore the web application structure and find hidden pages.
Integrations include Jenkins, Jira, GitLab, GitHub, Azure DevOps, Bamboo, TeamCity, Slack, Zapier, Selenium, and Docker.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Ideal for learning security testing
- Passive scanning feature
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Not suitable for large-scale testing
Other Vulnerability Scanning Software
Here are some additional vulnerability scanning software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Burp Suite
For penetration testers
- Acunetix
For web application security
- Intruder
For automated threat detection
- HCL AppScan
For application security
- ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus
For IT administrators
- SolarWinds Security Event Manager
For event correlation
- ImmuniWeb
For compliance testing
- Core Impact
For penetration testing teams
- AVG AntiVirus
For personal use
- Checkmarx
For developers
- Astra
For web application security
- Apptega
For cybersecurity frameworks
- Outpost24
For continuous monitoring
- Secunia PSI
For patch management
- Bitdefender
For advanced threat protection
Vulnerability Scanning Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best vulnerability scanning software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like ease of integration and real-time threat detection. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Detecting vulnerabilities in network systems
- Performing regular security scans
- Providing detailed vulnerability reports
- Ensuring compliance with security standards
- Offering real-time threat alerts
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Integration with multiple security tools
- Customizable scanning profiles
- Security testing tools
- Advanced threat intelligence capabilities
- Automated patch management
- Support for cloud environments
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation through features
- Customization options for dashboards
- Minimal learning curve
- Accessibility on various devices
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars and tutorials
- Supportive onboarding team
- Comprehensive user documentation
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Availability of live chat support
- 24/7 customer service
- Access to a knowledge base
- Responsive email support
- Dedicated account managers
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing against similar tools
- Flexible subscription options
- Discounts for annual billing
- Comprehensive feature set for the price
- Free trial or demo availability
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Positive feedback on reliability
- High ratings for ease of use
- Endorsements of customer support
- Reports of quick issue resolution
- Recommendations from industry professionals
How to Choose Vulnerability Scanning Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Ensure the tool can grow with your business. Consider if it can handle increased data volumes and users as your network expands. |
| Integrations | Look for compatibility with existing tools your team uses. Ensure it integrates with security information and event management (SIEM) systems, patch management tools, and more. |
| Customizability | Check if the software allows you to tailor scanning profiles and reports to meet your specific needs and compliance requirements. |
| Ease of Use | Evaluate the user interface and how intuitive it is for your team. A tool that's easy to navigate reduces training time and increases productivity. |
| Budget | Consider the total cost of ownership, including any hidden fees. Ensure the price aligns with your budget while meeting essential security needs. |
| Security Safeguards | Verify the tool’s ability to protect sensitive data during scans and ensure compliance with industry standards like GDPR or HIPAA. |
| Support | Assess the quality of customer support services. Look for 24/7 availability, live chat, and comprehensive user guides to assist your team when needed. |
| Performance | Consider the tool’s speed and efficiency in scanning without causing system lags. Quick scans mean less downtime and disruption to your operations. |
Trends in Vulnerability Scanning Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different vulnerability scanning software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- Cloud-native Solutions: More vendors are offering cloud-native vulnerability scanning tools that integrate directly with cloud platforms. This trend enhances scalability and provides real-time insights. Vendors like QualysGuard have embraced this, offering seamless cloud integration.
- AI-driven Analysis: AI and machine learning are being used to analyze patterns and predict vulnerabilities. This helps in identifying threats faster and reduces false positives. Tools like Intruder are incorporating AI to enhance threat detection capabilities.
- IoT Security Focus: As IoT devices become more common, vulnerability scanners are now focusing on securing these devices. This includes scanning for common vulnerabilities and ensuring firmware updates. Vendors like Outpost24 are leading with dedicated IoT scanning features.
- User-friendly Interfaces: There's a growing trend towards simplifying the user experience. Vendors are redesigning interfaces to be more intuitive, making it easier for teams to navigate and manage vulnerabilities. Burp Suite has improved its interface to cater to both beginners and experts.
- Continuous Compliance Monitoring: Tools are now offering continuous compliance features that automatically check for compliance with industry standards. This ensures businesses remain compliant without manual intervention. ManageEngine Vulnerability Manager Plus provides ongoing compliance checks as part of its offering.
What Is Vulnerability Scanning Software?
Vulnerability scanning software is a tool that identifies security weaknesses in computer systems, networks, and applications. IT security professionals and network administrators typically use these tools to protect data and ensure compliance with security standards. Automated scanning, real-time alerts, and compliance monitoring help with identifying threats, maintaining security, and staying compliant. Overall, these tools provide essential protection and peace of mind for businesses managing their IT security.
Features of Vulnerability Scanning Software
When selecting vulnerability scanning software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automated scanning: Automatically detects vulnerabilities in your systems and applications, saving time and reducing manual effort.
- Real-time alerts: Provides instant notifications of potential threats, allowing you to respond quickly and protect your network.
- Compliance monitoring: Ensures that your systems meet industry standards and regulatory requirements, helping you avoid penalties.
- Customizable scanning profiles: Allows you to tailor scans to focus on specific areas of concern, enhancing the efficiency of your security assessments.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with other security tools and platforms, providing a unified security management experience.
- Detailed reporting: Offers comprehensive reports that outline vulnerabilities and recommended actions, aiding in informed decision-making.
- User-friendly interface: Simplifies navigation and usage, reducing the learning curve and increasing productivity for your team.
- AI-driven analysis: Uses artificial intelligence to predict and identify vulnerabilities, improving threat detection and reducing false positives.
- Network mapping: Visualizes your network's architecture, helping you understand and manage your security posture better.
Benefits of Vulnerability Scanning Software
Implementing vulnerability scanning software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Enhanced security: Identifies and addresses vulnerabilities before they can be exploited, keeping your systems secure.
- Time efficiency: Automates routine security checks, freeing up your team to focus on other essential tasks.
- Regulatory compliance: Helps you meet industry standards and legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties.
- Proactive threat management: Offers real-time alerts and detailed reports, enabling you to react swiftly to potential threats.
- Improved decision-making: Provides comprehensive data and insights, helping your team make informed security decisions.
- Cost savings: Prevents security breaches that could lead to costly damages and downtime, protecting your bottom line.
Costs and Pricing of Vulnerability Scanning Software
Selecting vulnerability scanning software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in vulnerability scanning software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Vulnerability Scanning Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic scanning, limited reporting, and community support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25 /user /month | Automated scanning, basic alerts, limited integrations, and email support. |
| Business Plan | $30-$75 /user /month | Advanced scanning options, customizable reports, real-time alerts, and phone support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $100-$300/user /month | Comprehensive scanning, detailed compliance reporting, dedicated account manager, and 24/7 support. |
Vulnerability Scanning Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about vulnerability scanning software:
What are some of the limitations of vulnerability scanning?
Vulnerability scanning has limitations like producing false positives and lacking contextual reporting. It might not provide in-depth analysis or detect business logic vulnerabilities. You should supplement scans with other security measures to ensure comprehensive protection for your systems.
What can a vulnerability scanner not detect?
Vulnerability scanners may struggle to detect unknown vulnerabilities because they rely on databases of known threats. They’re also limited in identifying complex vulnerabilities and out-of-band threats. It’s important to use additional security tools and manual testing to cover these gaps.
What is a common potential downside to running a vulnerability scan?
Running a vulnerability scan can sometimes lead to false-positive results, causing unnecessary concern. Scans may also miss deeper issues, identifying only a portion of vulnerabilities. You should use scans as part of a broader security strategy to address these downsides.
How often should vulnerability scans be conducted?
The frequency of vulnerability scans depends on your organization’s needs and regulatory requirements. Regular scans, such as monthly or quarterly, are common. However, you should conduct scans after significant system changes or security incidents to ensure ongoing protection.
How can I reduce false positives in vulnerability scanning?
To reduce false positives, ensure your vulnerability scanner is up to date with the latest definitions. Customize scan settings to suit your environment and validate findings with manual testing. This approach helps you focus on genuine threats and maintain system security.
What should I do if a vulnerability scan identifies a critical threat?
If a critical threat is identified, prioritize immediate action to mitigate the risk. Follow your organization’s incident response plan, apply necessary patches or security measures, and monitor the system closely. Collaboration with your IT team ensures a swift and effective response.
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