Network Port Scanner (Nmap Clone) - Technical & Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This guide provides detailed instructions for creating a Network Port Scanner, inspired by Nmap. The tool scans a target network to identify open ports, detect services, and assess potential vulnerabilities.
1.2 Scope
The project is ideal for cybersecurity professionals, network administrators, and students exploring network security and penetration testing.
1.3 Definitions & Acronyms
|
Acronym |
Definition |
|
TCP |
Transmission Control Protocol |
|
UDP |
User Datagram Protocol |
|
IP |
Internet Protocol |
|
ICMP |
Internet Control Message Protocol |
|
DNS |
Domain Name System |
|
MAC |
Media Access Control |
2. System Architecture
The Network Port Scanner consists of the following
components:
- **Target Identification Module**: Resolves hostnames to IPs and verifies
target availability.
- **Port Scanning Module**: Probes specified ports using TCP/UDP protocols.
- **Service Detection Module**: Identifies services running on open ports.
- **Reporting Module**: Generates scan results in various formats.
3. Key Features
3.1 Multi-Protocol Scanning
Perform scans using TCP, UDP, and ICMP protocols to gather comprehensive data.
3.2 Service Detection
Identify services and versions running on open ports to assess potential vulnerabilities.
3.3 Customizable Scan Options
Provide options to customize scan types, timeout periods, and target ranges.
4. Implementation Steps
1. **Environment Setup**: Install Python and required
libraries (e.g., socket, threading).
2. **Target Resolution**: Use Python's socket library to resolve hostnames to
IPs.
3. **Port Scanning**: Implement TCP/UDP scanning using socket connections.
4. **Service Detection**: Parse responses to infer services running on detected
open ports.
5. **Reporting**: Generate output in formats such as plain text, JSON, or CSV.
5. Security Considerations
1. Ensure ethical usage and obtain permission before
scanning networks.
2. Protect scanned data with encryption if stored or transmitted.
3. Avoid triggering security systems that may detect unauthorized scanning.
6. Testing and Validation
1. Test the scanner on local networks to validate
functionality.
2. Simulate different network conditions (e.g., firewalls, NATs) to evaluate
performance.
3. Compare results with Nmap to benchmark accuracy and efficiency.
7. Tools and Technologies
- **Programming Language**: Python
- **Libraries**: socket, threading, argparse
- **Testing Tools**: Wireshark, Nmap
- **Output Formats**: Text, JSON, CSV