Hacking software is not only used by hackers for criminal activities but it’s equally used by white hat hackers and security professionals to identify a vulnerability in a network or an endpoint.
There are several hacking software available on the internet, including commercial and non-commercial offerings. It’s always good to test your network security from a cybercriminal mindset, to see the loopholes and fix them before the black hats exploit it.
In this article, we’ll see the eight best hacking software that security professionals can use for their testing purposes.
Note: The list is just a compilation and is not based on any preference or Rank.
What is Web Security and Hacking Software?
Best Web Security & Hacking Software Tools
Probely
Netsparker
Wallarm
Acunetix
BurpSuite
Angry IP Scanner
Qualys Guard
HashCat
Conclusion
Web security refers to the defensive measures, protocols, and tools that are used to keep threats and vulnerabilities from getting into web-based apps, websites, and user data.
Its main goal is to make sure that websites and web services work without putting data access, integrity, or privacy at risk. This includes things like SSL/TLS encryption, firewall defense, scanning for security holes, and more.
Hacking software, on the other hand, is made up of tools and programs that take advantage of weaknesses in computer systems, usually to gain unauthorized entry, steal data, or stop service.
These tools can be anything from exploit systems to tools that can break passwords. Even though they can be used negatively, many of them are also used in a good way.
Ethical hackers, also called “white hat” hackers, use these tools in penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to find security holes in systems and help improve defenses before they can be used by bad actors.
1.What is a Web security example?
Protecting a website from cyber dangers is what web security is all about. Using SSL/TLS security, for example, makes sure that data sent between a user’s browser and a website is safe.
By setting up a Web Application Firewall (WAF), you can stop traffic and threats that are harmful. Keeping website software up to date helps fix known problems. Two-factor authentication (2FA) gives users another layer of protection when they log in.
2.Why do we need web security?
Web security safeguards sensitive data from theft and manipulation. It prevents unauthorized access to systems and databases.
By ensuring a safe browsing experience, it builds trust among users and customers.
A secure web presence also mitigates financial and reputational losses. Without proper security, businesses risk exposure to cyberattacks and data breaches.
3.What is the security of HTML code?
HTML code is not fundamentally unsafe because it is mostly used to organize content for display on the web. But security holes can be made by doing things like using inline JavaScript or embedding user input.
Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks can take advantage of HTML that doesn’t handle user input well. These risks can be lessened by making sure that user inputs are clean and checked.
HTML-based content can be made more secure by always following the best coding techniques and security rules.
| Web Security Tools | Features |
| 1. Probely | Scanning for SQL injections Intrusive detection mechanism |
| 2. Netsparker | High-speed scanning Seamless integration |
| 3. Wallarm | Design better workflows Security for APIs |
| 4. Acunetix | Crucial software security professionals |
| 5. BurpSuite | Hacking software for security testing Application’s attack vector |
| 6. Angry IP Scanner | Scans local networks Extensive data export |
| 7.Qualys Guard | Cloud systems’ vulnerability Data analysis |
| 8.HashCat | Cloud systems’ vulnerability Data analysis |
Core Features:
Probely scans for vulnerabilities in the network and helps security professionals identify the critical ones and fix them on time.
The prime features include scanning for SQL injections, XSS, application vulnerabilities, and more. With its in-depth integration with JIRA and Slack, this tool allows multiple team members to contribute to the overall network assessment process. The intrusive detection mechanism is an added advantage, along with its variety of network reports.
Probely scans your network leaving nothing behind, bringing better visibility to security professionals.
To Whom it is advised?
Security experts, web coders, and IT teams that are in charge of keeping web apps and APIs safe are the main people who will use the Probely tool.
It lets organizations keep their security strong and meet different government regulations by automatically looking for holes in their defenses.
Its features are especially helpful for people who need to constantly check and improve the security of their web assets. This makes it a great choice for businesses and organizations that have a big online presence or that deal with private data.
Probely’s thorough reporting and easy-to-use interface also make it a good choice for teams that need clear, actionable information about their security.
Core Features:
Netsparket is another vulnerability assessment tool, that scans for SQL injection, XSS, and other web application loopholes in the network. This one comes on cloud and premises.
The best perks of Netsparket include accurate detection with specific proof based on scanning technology. It also detects URL rewriting and 404 error pages along with seamless integration with bug tracking protocols. High-speed scanning will be another perk allowing it to scan 1000 web applications in a day.
To Whom it is advised?
NetSparker works best for groups and people who work with web application security, like security teams, web coders, and IT experts. It’s especially helpful for people who need to make the process of finding holes in web apps and APIs automatic.
Netsparker is great for companies and medium to large businesses that need strong and scalable web security solutions because it can scan thoroughly and find false positives.
Its detailed reporting and ability to connect to issue trackers make it especially useful for teams that need to quickly handle and control security issues, making sure that web applications are always safe and up to security standards.
Core Features:
Cloud Native WAAP
API Attack Surface Management
Wallarm combines machine learning to automate security for APIs, applications, and other services. This integration with machine learning allows it to test and help the DevOps department design better workflows across the network infrastructure.
Wallarm’s automated WAF will work with public, private, and hybrid clouds which eventually led to a great partnership with AWS, CNCF, and Google. The AI engine in Wallarm helps developers identify patterns of data that help them develop strong security codes that will nullify the weakness using the engine’s earlier encounters.
To Whom it is advised?
Companies and individuals in need of sophisticated cybersecurity solutions, especially for protecting APIs and applications, are usually encouraged to use Wallarm.
Any company no matter how big or little, that deals with sensitive information online or uses web-based applications falls into this category.
Continuous security monitoring, vulnerability identification, and automated threat mitigation are all capabilities that IT security teams, DevOps, and developers may benefit from.
Companies that are striving to improve their cybersecurity posture and adhere to stringent compliance regulations can also benefit from Wallarm’s solutions.
Core Features:
Acunetix is one of the best software for security professionals, as it mimics the hacker thus keeping the security professionals one step ahead of the cybercriminals.
It takes care of HTML5, JavaScript, SQL injections, XSS, and more. All the web applications and services are monitored for better preparations for any surprise takedowns.
Along with web application vulnerabilities, this one also takes care of WordPress core and plugins as well. With swift scanning capabilities, Acunetix is another crucial software security professionals need to own.
To Whom it is advised?
If your company or organization has a significant online presence and needs thorough web vulnerability scanning, Acunetix is a great choice.
Businesses of all sizes that operate online, whether through a website, an app, or some other kind of online service, particularly those that deal with private client information or financial transactions, fall into this category.
Anyone responsible for ensuring the safety of online applications, including IT security teams, web developers, and cybersecurity experts, may find this particularly useful.
When it comes to identifying and addressing vulnerabilities that could result in data breaches, Acunetix is an invaluable tool for firms that are following compliance requirements like PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR.
Core Features:
BurpSuite is an excellent web application security and hacking software for security testing; its features offer significant penetration testing procedures.
Right from mapping to an analysis of the application’s attack vector, this tool is the right package for penetration testing teams.
Automated scanning procedures, vulnerability management frameworks, extensive compliance reports, and detailed scanning methodology take BurpSuite to the next-generation security assessment tools.
To Whom it is advised?
Cybersecurity, ethical hacking, and web application security penetration testers advocate Burp Suite. It is necessary for web application security evaluations, vulnerability testing, and exploitation.
This suite helps IT security teams secure web apps from numerous cyber risks in enterprises that produce or utilize them. Burp Suite also helps cybersecurity students and institutions learn about and experiment with web application security.
Independent security researchers and consultants who need a dependable and versatile toolbox for security audits and research projects like it due to its wide range of capabilities.
Core Features:
Angry IP scanner is an open source Hacking software covering cross-platform and offering ethical hacking features for security professionals.
Scans local networks, files, and command-line interfaces, goes along with many data fetchers, and also helps with extensive data export.
To Whom it is advised?
Angry IP Scanner is recommended for network administrators, IT professionals, and security analysts who need a fast and effective network discovery and administration solution.
In medium-to-large enterprises, data centers, and educational institutions, it is important for network infrastructure monitoring and management.
The application also lets cybersecurity specialists locate active network devices and their open ports, which is essential for vulnerability analysis and penetration testing.
Angry IP Scanner’s simplicity and ease of use appeal to computer enthusiasts and small business owners who need to understand and maintain their network structure.
Core Features:
Qualy Guard is another major security vendor that helps businesses streamline security and compliance in their network.
This web security and Hacking software also helps businesses check their cloud systems’ vulnerability. Takes care of data vulnerability, visibility, data analysis, real-time threats, and more.
The reliability, accuracy, and simplicity are the best perks of QualysGuard.
To Whom it is advised?
Medium to big corporations and organizations needing comprehensive cybersecurity and compliance management solutions can choose Qualys Guard.
It is ideal for IT security teams, compliance officials, and network administrators in banking, healthcare, and government, where data security and regulatory compliance are crucial.
Businesses looking to automate vulnerability management, policy compliance, and online application security will benefit from the product.
Its unified security and compliance monitoring platform makes Qualys Guard ideal for enterprises with large digital assets in on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments.
MSSPs who provide security and compliance services to their clients favor it for its scalability and feature set.
Core Features:
HashCat is a password-cracking software, that helps in recovering forgotten passwords and checks for password history to perform auditing and reporting.
It is an open-source platform that covers cross-platform, taking care of multiple devices inside the same network that comes with an integrated thermal watchdog, in-build benchmarking system, and supports distributed cracking networks.
Above all, it also supports automatic performance management for networks.
To Whom it is advised?
HashCat is advised primarily for cybersecurity professionals, particularly those specializing in password cracking and cryptanalysis.
It is a valuable tool for ethical hackers, penetration testers, and security researchers engaged in testing the strength of password security in systems and applications.
HashCat is also useful for forensic experts in law enforcement and cybersecurity firms who need to recover lost or forgotten passwords during investigations.
Additionally, it’s beneficial for IT security teams in organizations that want to conduct internal security audits and ensure that their password policies are robust against advanced cracking techniques.
Due to its advanced nature and the potential for misuse, HashCat is recommended for use by professionals with a clear understanding of ethical and legal implications in their respective jurisdictions.
All the above-mentioned Hacking Software will help security professionals test their environment and build up their defenses in an effective way. Most of the tools scan and bring in reports, which the security professionals can fix later.
But few bring in a hacker mindset and allow security professionals to see their network from a different perspective, thus making sure the vulnerable spots are highlighted, reported, and resolved at the right time before the real suspects hop in to infiltrate the corporate network.
Cybersecurity can be useful when our systems are always one step ahead of cybercriminals and to do that we need to think like the hackers and reinforce our networks using the right configuration and patches.
Apart from this Hacking software mentioned above, there are a lot of commercial software from vendors like VMware, Sophos, Ivanti, ManageEngine, Microsoft, MobileIron, JamfPro, and more that can help security professionals stay on track with the right cybersecurity procedures for 2023
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