CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

Which network utility is designed to scan a network and create a map?

1. Nmap

2. Wireshark

3. Traceroute

4. NetFlow

The correct answer is: Nmap

Nmap is a powerful network utility specifically designed for network discovery and security auditing. It scans network hosts and services, allowing users to identify live devices on a network, open ports, and the services running on those ports. By analyzing this data, Nmap can create a comprehensive map of the network topology, detailing the relationships and connections between different devices. Its ability to perform various types of scans, including TCP and UDP scans, allows it to gather significant information about the network configuration and structure. Nmap can help network administrators visualize their networks, identify vulnerabilities, and optimize performance through its detailed scanning capabilities. In contrast, Wireshark is primarily a packet analysis tool that captures and analyzes traffic in real-time, making it more beneficial for monitoring and troubleshooting than mapping. Traceroute is utilized for determining the path that packets take from one host to another across a network but does not create a comprehensive visual map of the network. NetFlow, meanwhile, is a protocol used to collect IP traffic information and monitor network flow; it helps analyze traffic patterns rather than mapping the physical or logical topology. Thus, Nmap stands out as the specialized tool for scanning and mapping networks effectively.