Using Nmap to perform layer 3 discovery

Nmap is one of the most powerful and versatile scanning tools in Kali Linux. As such, it should come as no surprise that Nmap would also be able to support ICMP discovery scanning. This recipe will demonstrate how to use Nmap to perform layer 3 discovery on remote hosts.

Getting ready

Using Nmap to perform layer 3 discovery does not require a lab environment, as many systems on the Internet will reply to ICMP echo requests. However, it is highly recommended that you perform any type of network scanning exclusively in your own lab unless you are thoroughly familiar with the legal regulations imposed by any governing authorities to whom you are subject. If you wish to perform this technique within your lab, you will need to have at least one system that will respond to ICMP requests. In the examples provided, a combination of Linux and Windows systems are used. For more information on setting up systems in a local lab environment, please refer to the the...