Network security work runs on a tight set of open-source tools. This list ranks 15 of the most popular open-source network security and pentest tools by GitHub stars (fetched 2026-08-17) - from packet analysis and port scanning to recon, MITM and password cracking.
15 Open-Source Network Security & Pentest Tools (GitHub Stars 2026)
The most-starred open-source network security and pentest tools on GitHub - packet analysis, scanning, recon, MITM and credential testing.
By The DevFixPro Editorial Team · independent editorial research project
Star counts retrieved from the GitHub API on 2026-08-17. Open-source projects grow daily, so treat the numbers as a snapshot — always check the linked repository for the latest figures, license, and activity.
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Wireshark★ 9,730World's leading network protocol analyzer for deep packet inspection.
View on GitHub → - 2

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mitmproxy★ 44,717Interactive HTTPS proxy for intercepting, inspecting and replaying traffic.
View on GitHub → - 5

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Impacket★ 16,000Python classes for working with network protocols and getting shells.
View on GitHub → - 11

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