What does the Nmap tool primarily identify when it scans a system?

The Nmap tool is primarily designed to provide a comprehensive overview of a network, particularly focusing on the current state of each network port on the system being scanned. When Nmap is executed, it can determine which ports are open, closed, or filtered, and it can provide additional information about the services running on those ports. This includes details about service versions and the protocols being used, which helps network administrators and security professionals assess the security posture of their systems.

Nmap's primary scanning functionality is essential for identifying which services are available on a given system, which is critical for both troubleshooting network issues and enhancing security through proactive measures. Understanding the open ports allows administrators to pinpoint potential entry points that could be exploited by attackers, making it a valuable tool in network security assessments.