16 Best Cybersecurity Tools

Cyberattacks are more frequent and sophisticated; it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the need for robust protection. 

You know you need the right tools, but how do you choose without spending a fortune? 

Fortunately, there are powerful cybersecurity tools that can provide the defense you need without the high costs. 

Experts trust these tools to help secure networks, monitor threats, and protect sensitive data. 

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best options to strengthen your cybersecurity without breaking the bank. Let’s get started!

What are cybersecurity tools?

Cybersecurity tools help you monitor and fix potential security concerns. These tools are aiding companies and individuals in maintaining their online privacy and security. Cybersecurity tools continuously monitor computer systems or networks and warn the user of potential risks the moment it detects them.

They are the ultimate line of defence against various forms of cyber-attacks, such as unsanctioned use of resources, data breaches, and hacker attacks to defend an organization’s system, network, or intellectual property. They also offer protection against cybercrime, such as password trafficking and identity theft.

Why is cyber security important?

Cybersecurity tools are crucial for any organization because they help safeguard all types of data against data breaches and loss. These can be health records, customer data, intellectual property, or sensitive business data.

Globally, an enterprise breach costs an average of $4.35 million. Companies need cybersecurity tools to defend against evolving threats and malicious actors eager to steal data, disrupt systems, and demand ransom. 

For example, a cybersecurity tool with automation capabilities is required for incident detection and response to protect organizational interests. Three common elements are people, technology, and processes.

Moreover, governments worldwide impose legal obligations to protect customer and user data from theft or loss and from falling into the wrong hands.

Types of cybersecurity tools

Different types of cybersecurity tools are tailored to counter specific threats. Some of the most popular cybersecurity tools are:

1. Network security monitoring tools

Network security monitoring tools are essential for monitoring all traffic flowing through your network. They help you spot potential issues and threats before they escalate into serious problems. 

These tools monitor your network in real-time and send instant alerts if they detect anything unusual. 

2. Security compliance tools 

Security compliance tools scan your network, tools, and processes to evaluate them against the requirements of regulatory frameworks. It detects non compliant activities and security failures and notifies system administrators to take corrective actions.

3. Web vulnerability scanning tools

Web vulnerability scanning tools continuously monitor the potential security risks of web applications to reveal security flaws and vulnerabilities by scanning websites, analyzing each file and displaying the website structure to find vulnerabilities within web applications. 

4. Network defence wireless-tools

Network defense wireless tools are software utilities and techniques designed to secure and protect wireless networks from unauthorized access, attacks, and vulnerabilities. It is required for controlling access to a network, combining both hardware and software to do the job. They help identify and block threats before they can infiltrate a company’s computer network.

5. Encryption tools

Encryption tools are designed to protect your data from being stolen, altered, or compromised. They work by scrambling the data into a secret code that can only be unlocked with a unique digital key. 

With secure encryption, the number of possible cryptographic keys is so vast that it’s nearly impossible for an unauthorized person to guess the correct one. This makes encryption a powerful way to keep your sensitive information safe.

6. Firewalls

Firewalls prevent unauthorized users from accessing the company intranet and can be implemented as hardware, software or a hybrid of the two.

7. Packet sniffers

A packet sniffer is a tool used to monitor network traffic. It examines the data packets that move between computers on a network or between linked devices. While hackers often use packet sniffers to collect information about a network illegally, they are also used by ISPs, advertisers, and governments. For instance, hackers may use packet sniffing to track your online activities, such as:

Streaming activities like watching videos or listening to music

8. Antivirus software

Antivirus software is primarily designed to scan, prevent, and remove viruses from your computer. Once installed, most antivirus programs automatically run in the background, offering real-time protection against potential threats.

When you have antivirus software on your computer, you take a proactive step in cybersecurity. It helps protect against many cyber threats, including keyloggers, browser hijackers, adware, botnets, phishing emails, and ransomware attacks.

9. Managed detection and response services

Managed detection and response services (MDR) are third-party services that aid organizations in monitoring, addressing, and removing threats. 

10. Public key infrastructure services

PKI services enable you to distribute and identify public encryption keys. It permits computers and individuals to communicate data over the web securely while also verifying the sender’s identity.

11. Penetration testing

Penetration testing helps in the detection of vulnerabilities in a company’s network that hackers could exploit with the use of tactics and tools available to them.

Top 16 Cybersecurity Tools in 2025

The market has a wide variety of options that cater to different aspects of cybersecurity. The key is to find the right tools that match your unique vulnerability surface, risk profile, and business requirements for a clearer view of security and maximum coverage. After consulting with our internal experts and engineers, here are the top 16 cybersecurity tools you should keep an eye on in 2025.

We have identified the following top 16 Cybersecurity tools:

• Wireshark
• Metasploit
• Sprinto
• Kali Linux
• Cain and Abel
• NMap
• Nessus Professional
• Aircrack-ng
• John the Ripper
• Nikto
• Tcpdump
• KisMAC
• NetStumbler
• Splunk
• Forcepoint
• Nexpose

1. Wireshark  

Wireshark is an open-source console-based tool used to analyze network protocols. Cybersecurity professionals use it to asses network security weaknesses by continuously capturing and analyzing data packets.  

Key features:  

• Compatibility across different platforms such as Windows, Linux, OS X, FreeBSD, etc.
• Open-source architecture with relatively easy integration,
• Data is captured and analyzed in real-time data
• Multiple networks and various output formats are supported by decryption protocol supports,

2. Metasploit

Metasploit specializes in penetration testing. It covers a range of security objectives, such as designing strategies to improve the company’s Cyber Security defenses and discovering vulnerabilities in systems and networks, among others.

Key features:

• Tests system security of online and web-based applications, servers, networks, etc. 
• Offers capabilities to uncover the slightest emerging weaknesses and provide high-level security around the clock.
• Compatible with a range of different systems, including web-based or online-based applications, networks, and servers, among others. 
• Helps evaluate and update IT infrastructure security against vulnerabilities reported earlier.

3. Sprinto

Sprinto is a cybersecurity and compliance automation tool that runs fully automated checks at granular levels to ensure airtight security across functions. It helps scope out security gaps and implement controls to remediate them.

How does Sprinto enable cybersecurity management?

Sprinto supports 100+ integrations with a number of cloud providers, ticketing systems, HRMS tools, etc. We get audit-related read-only permissions for these products.
Based on your active integrations, a list of assets is automatically created, and control checks are run 24×7 on these critical assets. Automatic alerts are raised in case of deviations.
Sprinto ensures you stay ever-vigilant, and the confidentiality, integrity and availability of sensitive data are always maintained.

Check out other essential key features of Sprinto as a cybersecurity tool:

Key features: 

• Continuous control monitoring: Ensure implementation of controls like firewalls, encryption, antivirus and more with real-time control monitoring of critical infrastructure
• Access controls: Create, edit, and manage user access privileges to prevent unauthorized access 
• Vulnerability assessments: 
• Endpoint security: Manage and report endpoint device safety with Sprinto’s baked-in  MDM tool Dr Sprinto
• Health dashboards: Verify security and compliance health from a centralized dashboard with a quick snapshot of passing, failing, due and critical checks
• Security Awareness training: Publish built-in security awareness training across the organization for ensuring security best practices
• Policy templates: Leverage out-of-the-box policy templates for navigating through complex security and compliance operations
• Evidence collection: Present automatically collected security compliance evidence to the auditor through the audit dashboard

4. Nmap

Also known as Network Mapper, it is a free and open-source cybersecurity tool in Cyber that scans IT systems and networks to identify security vulnerabilities. Further, it enables professionals to monitor host uptime, map out possible areas of attacks on the network and service, and take significant security actions accordingly.

Key features:

• Nmap is compatible with all popular operating systems,
• Irrespective of the size of the network, it enables experts to scan for vulnerabilities on the web, 
• Provides a detailed overview of the activities of the network on a single dashboard, such as the hosts that are connected to the network, the types of packet filters and firewalls deployed to keep the network secure, the operating system it runs on, etc.

5. Kali Linux  

Kali Linux is among the most popular and ready-to-use available cybersecurity tools. It offers over 300 tools that companies use to monitor their networking systems for vulnerabilities. The main advantage is that the platform can be modified for experts with different levels of understanding.  

Key features:  

• Compatible across multiple devices and environments
• Open-source product with easy integration
• Highly useful in security auditing with a specialization in penetration testing
• Contributions and developments from a massive community of users

6. Nessus Professional  

Nessus Professional helps improve the integrity of a network. The pro version of Nessus Professional enables admins and security staff to identify potential exploits with this free, open-source vulnerability scanner. The main advantage of the tool is that its database is updated on a daily basis with new threat data.  

Key features:  

• Remote vulnerability scanning tool offering high-speed asset discovery,  
• Easy to deploy and use, 
• Tenable’s expert vulnerability research team is always available for support,  
• Point-in-time assessments are automated to help quickly identify and fix vulnerabilities,  
• Nessus supports Linux, Mac, and Windows operating systems. 

7. Aircrack-ng  

Aircrack-ng is a free and open-source tool utilized to access the weaknesses of Wi-Fi network security and is a must-have comprehensive suite of wireless tools. The main benefits of this package of tools are monitoring, analyzing, and exporting packets of data, cracking complex Wi-Fi passwords, and spoofing access points.    

Key features:  

• Easy integration with open-source architecture  
• Compatible with most wireless network interface controllers,  
• Includes a suite of programs like Airdecap-ng, Airtun-ng, Airodump-ng, and Packetforge-ng,  
• Heavy scripting is enabled as all tools are command line based
• Works primarily on Linux but also FreeBSD, macOS, OpenBSD, NetBSD, Windows, as well as Solaris and even eComStation 2.  

8. John the Ripper

John the Ripper is a powerful tool for testing the strength of passwords within an organization. It cracks passwords and identifies weak or easily guessable ones that could pose significant security threats. 

This tool is especially valuable for organizations looking to proactively secure their systems, as it helps uncover vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.

Key features:

• Works with a variety of systems, including Windows, Linux, DOS, and OpenVMS systems.
• Identifies complex ciphers and hash-type passwords.
• To make sure the tool provides accurate pen-testing results, the OpenWare community develops and releases continuous updates.

9. Cain and Abel

Cain and Abel are one the oldest cybersecurity tools in the industry that help in identifying the weaknesses in Windows as well as password recovery.

Key features:

• Ability to maintain a record of VoIP communications  
• Analyzing routing protocols to figure out if the routed data packets can get compromised. 
• Can disclose password boxes and cached passwords, etc., 
• Uses force attacks that help in cracking encrypted passwords. 
• Helps in decoding passwords that are scrambled.

10. Nikoto

Nikto, an open-source cyber security tool, is one of the best choices for conducting web vulnerabilities. It scans for web vulnerabilities and fixes them.

Key features: 

• It maintains a database with over 6,400 different types of threats that it uses to cross-reference the results of a web vulnerability scan.
• Both web servers and networks are covered. 
• Developers frequently update the database with new threat data to counter new vulnerabilities.
• Plugins are constantly updated to ensure the tool remains compatible with various systems.

11. Tcpdump

Tcpdump is mainly used to sniff data packets in a network.

Key features:

• Monitors and logs IP traffic and TCP communicated through a network. 
• Offers a command-based software utility to analyze network traffic between the device it is executed in and the network that is routing the traffic. 
• It tests and monitors a network’s security by filtering data traffic transferred across or received over the network on a particular interface. 

12. KisMAC  

KisMAC provides wireless network security specifically for MAC operating systems by scanning wireless networks that are supported on Wi-Fi cards, like airports.  

Key features:  

• Dedicated to MAC OS software
• PCAP import and export capabilities,
• Features Kismet drone support 
• Improves network security by using brute force attacks and the exploitation of weak scheduling,
• Supports many third-party USB devices: Ralink rt2570, Intersil Prism2, rt73, and Realtek rtl8187 chipsets.  

13. Netstumbler

Netstumbler is a free cybersecurity tool dedicated to systems running on Windows operating systems. There is no provision of source codes since Netstumbler was developed for Windows systems only.

Key features:

• Netstumbler scans for and identifies available wireless networks in the vicinity, including hidden or less visible ones
• It measures the signal strength of detected wireless networks, which can help in assessing network coverage and detecting areas with weak signals
• The tool identifies whether wireless networks are using encryption (like WEP, WPA, or WPA2)
• Although more basic compared to other tools, Netstumbler can provide rough location data for wireless access points

14. Splunk  

A fully automated web vulnerability scanner is perhaps one of the best tools for monitoring network security due to its speed and versatility. Splunk is used to perform historical searches and conduct real-time network analysis to look for threat data.  

Key features:  

• Data is collected from virtually any source and location,  
• A unified user interface makes it a user-friendly tool 
• Powerful abilities to unlock data across all parts of the enterprise,
• It can be implemented as a cloud-based platform or on-premise deployment. 

15. Forcepoint  

Frequently used by network and security admins, Forcepoint helps customize SD-Wan. This way, only authorized users can access specific resource contents. Forcepoints help them track malicious activities within the network. As a result, users can apply the required controls and compliances to fix them later.  

It can be deployed on the premises or cloud-based. Cloud implementation blocks servers that pose security threats to the systems. Such a feature helps improve the security management of remote workers.  

Key features:  

• A high level of security in applications having significant data,  
• Seamless integration for fingerprints, policies, and classifiers across all channels  
• Intrusions can be blocked with a high level of customization and the probable exploitation of vulnerabilities,
• Provides real-time classification and content analysis,
• Third-party global and cross-portfolio shared threat intelligence network.  

16. Nexpose

Nexpose is a vulnerability scanning tool that comes in several forms—whether as a virtual machine, a private cloud option, standalone software, a managed service, or an appliance. Security teams use Nexpose to find and address weak spots in their systems, helping to detect and fix vulnerabilities before they become big problems.

Here’s what Nexpose offers:

• Collect: Get real-time insights into your network’s risk level so you always know where you stand.
• Prioritize: Identify which vulnerabilities need your attention first with detailed risk scores.
• Remediate: Equip your IT team with the information they need to address and resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

Key Features:

• Nexus offers a real-time view and security analysis of everything happening across your network.
• Nexus also helps security teams stay organized by assigning risk scores to different vulnerabilities.
• It keeps its database constantly updated with the latest threat information, so it’s always ready to tackle new types of threats.

How much does a cybersecurity tool cost?

Every cybersecurity tool your provider uses comes with its own license or subscription fee, typically ranging from $7 to $20 per month per user. 

But that’s not all—each tool also needs regular management. Here is a detailed table that gives you a glimpse of potential cybersecurity tool costs.

Cost Component	Price Range (Per Month, Per User)
Cybersecurity Tool License	$7 – $20
Tool Management	$12 – $40
Training and Support	$5 – $15
Incident Response Readiness	$10 – $30
Regular Security Audits	$8 – $25
Total Potential Cost	$42 – $130

Benefits of cybersecurity

The urgency of cyber security in the digital world cannot be understated. Security breaches have a devastating impact on businesses and individuals. These are theft of social security numbers, credit card information, bank account details, and sensitive data leaks. These attacks have highlighted the significance of having strong cybersecurity measures in place. Some of the most common benefits of cybersecurity include the following:

Protects Personal Data

Cybersecurity can also protect personal data against internal threats, be it accidental or with malicious intent and may jeopardize organizations, employees, or customers’ privacy. It might arise from third-party vendors, previous employees, or trusted partners.

1. Protects Business Reputation

Customer retention is a direct result of strengthening brand loyalty and is an essential business factor. Business reputation takes the hardest hit due to data breaches which leads to the weakening of the bond of trust between the organization and its customers.

Sudden setbacks can be avoided with technologies such as network security and cloud security to strengthen authentication leading to a pathway of recommendations, future ventures, and expansions.

2. Enhances Productivity

Viruses lead to the firm’s downtime by impacting workflows, networks, and functioning, thus bringing the organization to a standstill.

Firms can enhance their productivity with improved firewalls, virus scanning, and automated backups. Employees should be trained about email phishing, suspect links, scams, and other suspicious activities to ensure productivity and reduce downtime and violations.

3. Assists Remote Working

Recently, remote working has gained more popularity than ever. It is impractical for firms to circulate their sensitive data across the globe without having a cybersecurity infrastructure. These threats can have long-term implications for the organization as well as for customers.

As per a recent study, the average data breach cost in remote work has increased by $137,000, making it a priority for businesses to protect sensitive data.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Regulations such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, SOX, CCPA, and GDPR have been imposed to gauge organizations’ cyber security strength and protect companies and customers.

The solutions must have a firewall, online content filtration, antivirus, anti-spam, and wireless security to improve resilience which can safeguard business continuity.

5. Improves Cyber Posture

Cybersecurity provides firms with comprehensive digital protection, thus giving the employees safety, flexibility, and liberty to access the internet anytime, anywhere.

Organizations can monitor and respond to cyber security breaches, all from a single dashboard!

6. Better Data Management

Data is the crux of the products and marketing strategies. It is one of the most invaluable assets for the organization. Data breaches can also invite huge losses and penalties. Cyber security protects organizations against such data breaches.

7. Streamlined Access Control

Enterprises feel in control of all the tasks by controlling the internal and external processes. They can establish accountability for strategic management. Access to systems, resources, and computers is streamlined hence reducing cybercrime threats. 

8. Supports the IT Team

As the advancement of technology is leading to sophisticated hacking practices, expert IT professionals are able to skillfully handle even the most advanced cybercrimes with cyber security tools. 

9. Saves the Bottomline

Businesses cannot survive the competition with a bad reputation making it a crucial aspect for continuity. Cybercrimes such as hacking also halt daily operations, which hits business operations. Cyber-attacks also invite fines to regulators and customers’ claims.

Upgrade your cybersecurity game with Sprinto

Effective planning, implementation and risk management help firms assess their businesses’ cyber security. A cyber security audit can help enterprises identify potential gaps and expose vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Further on, after identifying the issues, enterprises must take strategic measures. Safer practices and regulations ingrain confidence in an organization’s employees as well as stakeholders and customers. 

Sprinto is an automated security compliance software provider to manages all aspects of compliance from a single dashboard and integrates with any cloud setup.

Check out InfiniteData’s success story with Sprinto. They got the audit ready for SOC 2 and ISO 27001 simultaneously with our advanced adaptive automation capabilities.

Achieve air-tight security compliance to consolidate risk, map entity-level controls, and run the fully-automated checks. Get in touch with us now to learn more.

FAQ

What are the 7 layers of cyber security?

The seven layers of cybersecurity are:

• Mission Critical Assets 
• Data Security
• Application Security 
• Endpoint Security 
• Network Security
• Perimeter Security 
• The Human Layer

What are the 3 main security tools used to protect your computer from threats?

Antispyware software, antivirus software, and firewalls are also significant tools to thwart attacks on your device.

What are the 5 types of cyber security?

Cybersecurity can be categorized into five different types:

• Critical infrastructure security
• Network security
• Application security
• Internet of Things (IoT) security
• Cloud Security