Description: Zmap is an open-source network scanner designed to perform large-scale network scans efficiently and quickly. Its main feature is the ability to send request packets to multiple IP addresses simultaneously, allowing for the rapid gathering of information about the availability of hosts and services. Unlike other scanners that may be slower and consume more resources, Zmap is optimized for massive scanning, making it a valuable tool for security researchers, network administrators, and penetration testing professionals. Its architecture allows for customization and integration with other systems, facilitating data collection and subsequent analysis. Zmap is particularly useful in environments where rapid mapping of network infrastructure is required, as well as in academic studies analyzing the security of the Internet as a whole.
History: Zmap was developed by a team of researchers at the University of Michigan, led by Dr. Vern Paxson, and was first released in 2013. Its creation arose from the need for a tool that could perform large-scale network scans efficiently, especially in the context of security research and monitoring of Internet infrastructure. Since its release, Zmap has evolved and has been used in various academic research and security projects, contributing to a better understanding of the global network topology.
Uses: Zmap is primarily used in penetration testing and security audits to identify active hosts and exposed services on a network. It is also employed in academic research to study Internet security and network mapping projects to better understand the infrastructure of the global network. Its ability to perform massive scans makes it ideal for detecting vulnerabilities and assessing an organization’s attack surface.
Examples: A practical example of using Zmap is its application in a study that analyzed the security of IoT devices on a public network, where it was used to quickly identify all connected devices and their services. Another case is the use of Zmap by researchers to map Internet infrastructure and detect changes in service availability over time.
