In this article, we are talking about website port checker tools, how it works, and introduce you with 5 related tools.
Website Port Checker Tools are often employed, as part of a port scanner software, to check for open and closed ports of a network. Ports are entry and exit points for data requests, which are vulnerable to attack from hackers if left unexamined. Port scanners and port checkers allow us to scrutinize the performance and status of these ports, i.e. are they open or closed, how well are they performing, etc.
How does A Website Port Checker work?
Generally, there are two protocols, TCP and UDP, for checking ports. The process comprises of five simple steps, explained as follows:
- The first thing you need is an active, for scanning a port. You can explore active hosts via network scanning.
- Each active host is mapped to its unique IP address.
- The port checker will now perform a scan by sending packets of data through various ports to test whether they are open or closed.
- The responses of the ports are analyzed.
- The data is compiled, the threat level is analyzed, port status is determined, and everything is displayed to the user.
Port scanners can connect to a myriad of different hosts and perform several types of scans including a stealth scan (seek the other party’s consent first). If you are looking for an excellent website port checker tool, hang tight and read on to discover our top picks.
5 Website Port Checker Tools
After much comparing, researching, reviewing, and scrutinizing, we have narrowed down our picks to the 5 tools mentioned below:
1. Nmap
If you are looking to audit your network or analyze its security level, NMap or Network Mapper is the perfect option for you. This port scanner is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, it is completely free and open-source. You can use it for scrutinizing the cyber defenses of any local or remote networks and a host of different network administration functions.
Features
Why is NMap on this list? Here’s why:
- Can reveal all the open and blocked ports of a scanned network.
- It will give you a list of potential hosts to connect with.
- Can detect the details of the network being detected, i.e. OS, manufacturer, etc.
- It shows you the apps that the target network is running.
Verdict: NMap is a free and open-source port scanner, it is ideal for network security auditing and network administration.
2. Advanced Port Scanner
Advanced Port Scanner is a windows compatible free port scanner that you can use for network monitoring, Though it may lack some advanced features in high-end software, it offers a great deal for what it’s worth. It is ideal for individual use.
Features
Here is what sets Advanced Port Scanner apart:
- It detects open and closed/blocked ports.
- This tool can identify the apps that an open port is running.
- Gives you remote access to a system.
- It can perform multithreaded port scanning at a faster rate than conventional software.
Verdict: This fast and free option is ideal for users who wish to execute remote commands from a connected system and perform fast-paced multithreaded port scanning.
3. Angry IP Scanner
Angry IP Scanner a simple-to-use, free, and open-source IP scanner is ideal for small and medium-sized corporations. It is compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS; it is simple to use and requires no installation. This software can detect web servers and NetBIOS, it can also integrate with Java, imparting a greater versatility and functionality than competing toolkits.
Features
Angry IP Scanner stands out because:
- You can export the results of a scan in whatever format you wish.
- Has several data fetchers, allowing it to constantly expand its span.
- It uses a command-line interface, hence it is suited only for advanced users.
- And it is fast, simple, free, open-source, versatile, and powerful.
Verdict: Angry IP Scanner is the best option for advanced users, it is perfect for small to medium-sized enterprises.
4. SolarWinds Port Scanner
SolarWinds port scanner is also a completely free option. It can scan the target IP address and reveal all of its open and blocked ports. It is a commercial tool with wide applications in network administration and port safety auditing.
Features
SolarWinds excels competition in the following areas:
- Its multithreaded scanning option allows you to cut down scan times.
- You can choose a DNS server of your choice.
- You can use a command-line system if you please (experienced users only).
- It scans and reveals the status of ports.
Verdict: SolarWinds Port Scanner is the perfect free option for exploring network security vulnerabilities.
5. NetCat
NetCat acts as both a network debugging and exploration tool. It is a backend software that can use either IP or TCP connection to scan data across a network. The software is ideal for advanced users as it hosts features like buffered send-mode and hexdump.
Features
NetCat has the following salient features:
- It is compatible with Linux, FreeBSD, Solaris, macOS, and NetBSD (not Windows).
- Connections, both inbound and outbound, are accessible via all of the ports.
- It features both TCP and UDP protocols.
- It has several unique built-in features like tunneling mode, random port scanner, buffered send-mode, and hexdump.
Verdict: NetCat is a decent option for those seeking a more advanced tool for more high-end operations, however, it is not available on Windows.
Our Recommendations
The port checkers mentioned in this list are versatile and varied options. There are a ton of online port checker software on the market, we selected these few because of their unique features. NMap is a decent simplistic option, suited for most users. However, for more advanced-end users, Angry IP Scanner and NetCat are potent choices.
Port Checker Software Are Essential For Your Network
Port checkers are quintessential for exploring network vulnerabilities, maintaining port security, checking for blocked ports, and exerting administrative control over a network. These are the basic requirements for business networks and in some cases, even domestic networks so that they work optimally and safely.