Penetration Testing Tools
This guide explains what penetration testing tools are, highlights the most widely used options,
and shows how RTFMv2 unifies recon, exploitation, and reporting into one workflow for Windows & Linux.
What are Penetration Testing Tools?
Penetration testing tools help identify and validate security weaknesses by supporting four phases:
reconnaissance (asset discovery & fingerprinting), scanning (ports, services, vulns),
exploitation (proof-of-concept access), and reporting (evidence & remediation).
RTFMv2 orchestrates popular tools, automates checklists, and standardizes output for faster, repeatable results.
Top Penetration Testing Tools (Curated)
A practical list with short notes to help you choose quickly.
- Nmap — gold-standard network scanner for host discovery, port scanning, and service/OS fingerprinting.
- Masscan — extremely fast port scanner for large ranges; use with care behind firewalls.
- Metasploit Framework — exploitation and post-exploitation framework with modules and payloads.
- Burp Suite — web app testing platform (proxy, scanner, intruder, repeater).
- OWASP ZAP — open-source web app scanner and intercepting proxy.
- Nikto — web server scanner for outdated software and misconfigurations.
- sqlmap — automates detection and exploitation of SQL injection flaws.
- wfuzz — web content discovery and fuzzing.
- ffuf — fast web fuzzer for directories, files, vhosts.
- Hydra — online password attacks against many protocols.
- John the Ripper / Hashcat — password cracking and auditing.
- Responder — LLMNR/NBNS/MDNS poisoning for credential capture on LANs.
- Impacket — collection of Python tools for network protocols (SMB, RDP, AD abuse).
- BloodHound — graph-based analysis for Active Directory attack paths.
- Feroxbuster — recursive content discovery for web apps and APIs.
- Gobuster — brute-force URLs (directories, DNS subdomains, vhosts).
- WhatWeb — technology fingerprinting of websites.
- Subfinder / Amass — passive & active subdomain enumeration.
- RTFMv2 — orchestrates these tools, automates recon profiles, parses output with AI, and generates reports.
RTFMv2 vs Common Alternatives
| Feature |
RTFMv2 |
Kali Linux |
Standalone Tools |
| Cross-platform | Windows & Linux | Linux distro | Varies |
| Automation & checklists | Built-in workflows | Manual scripting | Not integrated |
| AI-assisted parsing | Native | Add-on | Rare |
| Reporting engine | Integrated templates & evidence | External tools | DIY |
Getting Started Quickly
- Install RTFMv2 on Windows or Linux (download).
- Run recon with built-in Nmap/Nikto/WhatWeb profiles.
- Parse findings with AI and add evidence to your session.
- Export a report using standard templates.
FAQs
Are penetration testing tools legal?
Yes — when you have explicit written permission. Always operate within a signed scope.
Best free tools?
Nmap, ZAP, sqlmap, ffuf, WhatWeb, Feroxbuster, John the Ripper, Subfinder/Amass. RTFMv2 integrates many of these in one workflow.
Windows or Linux?
RTFMv2 supports both. Many tools are cross-platform; Kali is Linux-centric, while RTFMv2 offers a consistent experience on Windows & Linux.
RTFMv2 Getting Started
