Nmap vs RIPE Atlas

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.

RIPE Atlas is a global probe network for measuring Internet connectivity and reachability in real time. Most collected results are freely available to browse, download or use, including for people without a probe or RIPE NCC account. Users with enough credits can schedule their own ping, DNS, traceroute and SSL certificate measurements through the portal or API, with settings such as address family and interval. The network also runs built-in measurements automatically, some of which provide historical records spanning years. Eligible new users can claim a one-time grant of 50,000 free credits, while connected probe hosts earn credits. Probe-host applications are assessed by location; approved applicants receive a probe by post at no charge. Software probe options include Linux, Raspbian, Docker and OpenWRT. RIPE Atlas offers REST and streaming APIs, as well as command-line tools requiring Python. It is listed for web, API, Linux and macOS, with additional platform support including BSD and Turris; Windows is experimental. Probe IP addresses can appear in measurements, but personal email addresses are not shown.