Network Reconnaissance
Network reconnaissance is the process of gathering information about a computer or network in order to understand its structure and vulnerabilities. It involves using different tools and techniques to collect data, such as scanning for open ports, identifying the operating system and software in use, and mapping the network topology.
The purpose of network reconnaissance is usually to identify weaknesses that can be exploited by attackers, but it can also be used by security professionals to assess the security of a network and identify potential threats before they can be exploited.
Some common techniques used in network reconnaissance include ping sweeps to identify host devices, port scans to identify open ports, and vulnerability scans to identify software with known vulnerabilities. Information gathered during network reconnaissance can then be used to launch targeted attacks, such as password cracking or social engineering attacks, in order to gain access to a network or system.
It’s important to note that network reconnaissance is often considered to be a preliminary stage of hacking, and is illegal without explicit permission from the network owner. However, it can also be used for legitimate purposes, such as network testing and security auditing.