Pablo Guides

# Network Scanning Techniques using netscanner$

## Introduction to netscanner$

In today’s interconnected world, understanding your network's structure and vulnerabilities is paramount for any cybersecurity professional, particularly for those focused on penetration testing. The `netscanner$` tool within the Kali Linux environment provides a powerful means to assess network vulnerabilities and gather insight into network devices. This section will guide you through the installation, configuration, and usage of `netscanner$`, including practical examples that reflect real-world scenarios.

## Installation and Configuration on Kali Linux

### Prerequisites
Before installing `netscanner$`, ensure you have a running instance of Kali Linux. The tool typically comes pre-installed in recent versions of Kali, but you can always update your system to ensure you have the latest tools available.

1. **Update Kali Linux**:
Open a terminal and run the following commands to update your package list and upgrade existing packages.

   sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

 

2. **Install netscanner$**:
If `netscanner$` is not installed, you can install it via the following command:

   sudo apt install netscanner

 

3. **Verify Installation**:
Check if `netscanner$` is correctly installed by running:

   netscanner –help

 

### Configuration
Configuration of `netscanner$` primarily involves adjusting settings related to network interfaces and output formats. By default, `netscanner$` uses the active network interface, but you can specify which interface to use.

1. **List Network Interfaces**:
To determine which interfaces are available, run:

   ip a

 

2. **Specify an Interface**:
You can specify the interface directly when using `netscanner$`. For example:

   netscanner -i eth0

 

3. **Output Options**:
The output can be formatted in several ways (JSON, CSV, etc.). To specify an output format:

   netscanner -o json

 

## Step-by-Step Usage of netscanner$

### Basic Usage
The basic usage of `netscanner$` involves scanning a local network to discover active devices. Here’s a simple command to conduct a basic scan on the local subnet.

"`bash
netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24
"`

### Advanced Scanning Techniques
`netscanner$` allows for advanced scanning options to cater to specific needs. Below are a few advanced techniques:

1. **Port Scanning**:
To perform a port scan on a range of IP addresses:

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 -p 1-1000

 

2. **Service Detection**:
Identifying services running on open ports can give insight into potential vulnerable services.

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 –service-detection

 

3. **OS Detection**:
Knowing the operating system in use can help tailor further penetration testing efforts.

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 –os-detection

 

### Real-World Use Cases

#### Use Case 1: Corporate Network Assessment
Consider a medium-sized corporation wanting to assess their internal network for vulnerabilities. The security team can utilize `netscanner$` to perform the following steps:

1. **Scan the Network**:

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24

 

2. **Save Results**:
Saving the output for further analysis:

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 -o results.json

 

3. **Review Open Ports**:
Analyze open ports and services to identify misconfigured or outdated services.

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 -p 1-65535 –service-detection

 

4. **Identify Operating Systems**:
Collect data on operating systems in use:

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 –os-detection -o os_results.csv

 

#### Use Case 2: Vulnerability Assessment
Vulnerability assessments can be conducted to identify weaknesses in the network. `netscanner$` can be integrated with other tools like `Nessus` or `OpenVAS` to enhance vulnerability detection.

1. **Scan for Vulnerabilities**:
Combine `netscanner$` with vulnerability scanning tools to gather comprehensive reports.

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 –vuln-scan

 

2. **Generate a Report**:
Create a report summarizing the findings:

   netscanner -s 192.168.1.0/24 -r report.pdf

 

### Detailed Technical Explanations

#### Network Scanning Concepts
Network scanning is the process of identifying the active devices on a network, their IP addresses, open ports, and services running on those ports. Understanding these concepts is crucial for effective penetration testing.

1. **Ping Sweep**:
A ping sweep identifies active hosts within a network. `netscanner$` employs this technique to discover which IP addresses respond to ICMP echo requests.

2. **Port Scanning**:
Port scanning involves sending requests to specific ports on a host to ascertain their state (open, closed, filtered). `netscanner$` supports various types of port scans, including TCP SYN scan and UDP scan.

3. **Service and OS Detection**:
By analyzing responses from open ports, `netscanner$` can identify the services running on a host and the operating system in use. This information is invaluable in pinpointing vulnerabilities.

#### External Reference Links
– [Kali Linux Official Documentation](https://www.kali.org/docs/)
– [Nessus Vulnerability Scanner](https://www.tenable.com/products/nessus)
– [OpenVAS Documentation](https://www.openvas.org/)

## Conclusion

`netscanner$` is an essential tool for pentesters and network administrators aiming to secure their networks against potential threats. By following the installation and usage guidelines provided, you will be well-equipped to perform network scans effectively, identify vulnerabilities, and enhance your overall network security posture.

—

Made by pablo rotem / פבלו רותם