4. BURP Suite
Now we’re getting to the crown jewel in my pentesting toolkit, especially when it comes to the world of web application security, BURP Suite is indispensable for anyone serious about diving deep into the intricacies of web app pentesting.
Sure, it might not boast the same download numbers as Nessus, but BURP Suite is the sturdy steed that’s got the back of web application security researchers. It’s a complete package, an integrated platform that’s all about versatility and depth. From scanning and spidering to attacking and exploiting, BURP can intercept, manipulate, it can URL-encode payloads, change delivery methods, and it can send requests right to a website. As a bonus they have one of the most respected free training academies available in all the ways their tool can be leveraged in a myriad of situations and objectives.
3. Offensive distributions
Claiming a well-deserved spot in my top three is offensive distributions, specialized operating systems for pentesting. These often work as a one-stop shop that includes as many tools as possible in one download for every phase of pentesting — from recon and OSINT all the way to exfiltration. It even includes fringe functions like forensics, reverse engineering, and simple security auditing tools.
For a long time Kali Linux was the only name in this space because it neatly categorizes tools to align with the various phases of a penetration test. You can literally go to the start menu > pick phase: OSINT/Exploit/Data Exfil/Forensics > select tool > and launch. But Kali isn’t the only sheriff in town anymore. Take, for instance, Parrot OS, which is gaining notoriety against Kali especially with institutions like EC-Council endorsing it for their CEH certification modules and exams. Parrot OS is carving out its niche, appealing to a broader audience with its user-friendly interface and a lightweight environment that doubles down on performance and security. Parrot runs leaner and doesn’t have so much overload.
It’s important to note that this shift isn’t about one being better than the other; it’s about choice and the right fit for different styles and preferences in the pentesting community. In this red teamer’s opinion you should find the tools that work for you and snapshot them into an image of your own distro.
2. Metasploit
While it may no longer be the sole monarch of the exploitation kingdom, thanks to emerging challengers like Atomic Red Team, Metasploit continues to command respect and high regard in the pentesting arena. A tool with a formidable force in the exploit and post-exploit phases – a true friend, especially for those just cutting their teeth in the world of pentesting.
What we continue to love about Metasploit is that it isn’t just a tool; it’s the entire go-to toolkit for developing, testing, and executing exploit code against remote targets. Metasploit isn’t just about finding vulnerabilities; it’s about testing them, executing on them, and understanding how they can be exploited in real-world scenarios. Even if you’re a Cobalt Strike convert, you’ll more than likely have started with this first, because it’s free and user-friendly.
1. Nmap (Network Mapper)
Topping my list at the No. 1 spot is Nmap. It’s the undisputed champion in the reconnaissance and fingerprinting arena, a critical stage in any pentesting operation. This tool isn’t just a part of the pentester’s toolkit; it’s the starting point of nearly every security adventure.
Nmap is this incredible blend of a powerful network discovery tool and a meticulous security auditor. It will uncover every little secret from open ports and running services to system versions and missing patches. It’s no wonder that it’s equally revered by both network and system administrators for its versatility and depth. What truly sets Nmap apart is its astounding customizability. You can tailor its scans to be as broad or as pinpointed as you need. I rarely go for the kitchen sink (the all-encompassing open scan) because honestly, it’s like opening a firehose of data. Instead, I opt for the surgical approach, targeting specific aspects like filtered ports or OS versions, and Nmap handles it like a pro.
For us pentesters, Nmap is our first foray into actively engaging with a system after the passive recon dance, and it’s usually a stealthy one at that. Chances are, no intrusion detection system is going to flag you while Nmap does its thing.
