Nikto is an open source tool used to scan the security of web servers and identify potential vulnerabilities that may expose them to attacks. The tool relies on a comprehensive scan of the server for insecure files and configurations, vulnerabilities in installed software, authentication issues, and configuration errors, making it a powerful tool for penetration testing. Nikto features a database containing thousands of signatures for different types of attacks and vulnerabilities, and supports HTTP and HTTPS protocols, allowing websites to be scanned with different levels of security. In the field of cybersecurity, Nikto is used by penetration testers and security administrators to detect vulnerabilities before they are exploited by attackers. Its most notable features include the ability to identify software versions installed on the server, search for sensitive files, and detect HTTP configuration issues that may pose a security threat. However, it is not considered a stealthy tool, as its scans can be easily detected in server logs. To protect servers from Nikto's scans, several preventive measures can be implemented, such as using web application firewalls (WAFs) to block suspicious requests, disabling signatures that reveal the server's version, restricting access to sensitive files, and monitoring logs for any unusual activity. It is also advisable to keep server software up to date and patch any discovered vulnerabilities to ensure that the server remains secure against any hacking attempts.

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