“arp-scan” is a network scanning tool that allows users to send Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) packets to hosts within a local network. By specifying IP addresses or hostnames, users can scan the network and gather information about the devices connected to it. ARP scanning is particularly useful for network administrators and security professionals to identify and monitor devices on the network.
Here are the key features and functionalities of arp-scan:
- ARP Packet Sending: arp-scan sends ARP packets to the specified IP addresses or hostnames within the local network. ARP is a protocol used to map an IP address to a physical MAC address, allowing devices to communicate with each other on a local network. By sending ARP packets, arp-scan can gather information about the devices present on the network.
- Network Discovery: Using arp-scan, users can discover and enumerate devices on the local network. The tool sends ARP requests to each specified IP address or hostname and receives responses from the devices that are active and reachable. This provides a list of devices along with their corresponding IP and MAC addresses.
- MAC Address Resolution: arp-scan resolves the MAC addresses of the devices on the network by receiving the ARP responses. MAC addresses are unique identifiers assigned to network interfaces, and they play a crucial role in network communication. By retrieving MAC addresses, arp-scan allows users to identify and differentiate devices on the network.
- IP Address Verification: arp-scan helps validate the IP addresses of devices on the network. By sending ARP packets and receiving responses, the tool confirms whether the specified IP addresses are active and responding within the network.
- Network Monitoring and Security: arp-scan assists in network monitoring and security tasks. It enables administrators to keep track of connected devices, detect unauthorized or unknown devices, and identify potential security risks. By regularly scanning the network with arp-scan, administrators can maintain network visibility and ensure the integrity of their local network.
- Customizable Scanning: arp-scan provides options to customize the scanning process. Users can define a range of IP addresses to scan, specify the network interface to use, set the timeout for receiving responses, and configure other parameters according to their scanning requirements.
- Command-Line Interface: arp-scan is operated through the command-line interface, making it suitable for advanced users and automation purposes. It offers various command-line options and parameters to control the scanning behavior and output format.
arp-scan Command Examples
1. Scan the current local network:
# arp-scan --localnet
2. Scan an IP network with a custom bitmask:
# arp-scan 192.168.1.1/24
3. Scan an IP network within a custom range:
# arp-scan 127.0.0.0-127.0.0.31
4. Scan an IP network with a custom net mask:
# arp-scan 10.0.0.0:255.255.255.0
Summary
In summary, arp-scan is a network scanning tool that utilizes ARP packets to scan and gather information about devices on a local network. With its ability to send ARP requests, resolve MAC addresses, verify IP addresses, and assist in network monitoring and security, arp-scan provides network administrators and security professionals with a valuable tool for managing and securing their local networks.