Evaluating the Performance Open-Source Vulnerability Scanners

The increasing complexity of cyber threats necessitates powerful and versatile vulnerability assessment tools. This study evaluates the performance and efficiency of leading open-source cybersecurity scanners - OpenVAS, ZAP, Nessus, Nikto, and Nmap - in various network environments, including sophisticated cloud infrastructures and more constrained local PC setups. Utilizing platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Linode, the research provides insights into how different environments impact the effectiveness of these tools. A key finding is the significant influence of network resources on the efficacy of scanners, underscoring the critical need for cybersecurity practitioners to consider the specific characteristics of their network environment when selecting tools. Through data collection and analysis, the capabilities of each tool are illuminated, offering valuable guidance for more effective denlovment of these tools.