Nmap vs Port Authority

Nmap is a free, open-source utility for discovering networks and auditing security. It uses raw IP packets to identify available hosts, services and versions, operating systems, and packet filters or firewalls. Scanning options include TCP and UDP ports, OS and version detection, and ping sweeps. Network administrators can use it to inventory systems, plan service upgrades, and monitor host or service uptime. The Nmap Scripting Engine runs bundled or user-written scripts in parallel for networking tasks such as discovery and vulnerability checks. The suite also includes Zenmap, a graphical interface and results viewer; Ncat for data transfer and debugging; Ndiff for comparing scan results; and Nping for packet generation and response analysis. Most port-scan types require privileged access to send and receive raw packets, although unprivileged users can run connect and FTP bounce scans. Nmap is not a comprehensive vulnerability scanner. End-user use is free, but redistribution in commercial products requires an OEM license. Quarterly OEM licenses start at $9,980.00 per 3 months for eligible small or startup companies.

Port Authority is a free Android port scanner for discovering network hosts and viewing network information. It discovers LAN hosts and public IP addresses, then scans TCP ports on LAN and WAN hosts with custom ranges. Network tools include MAC-address vendor detection, DNS record lookups, and Wake-on-LAN for local hosts. Lightweight SSH and HTTP(S) fingerprinting identifies server type and version. The maker describes host discovery as typically taking less than five seconds and scans as heavily threaded. The app says it has no ads or analytics trackers and does not track, collect, or share data. It requires limited permissions for network interaction. Public IP detection uses the maker’s open-source stateless service. The free app is GPL-3.0 licensed; a 4.99 USD once donation plan has the same features.