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mimikatz vs Nessus

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

mimikatz icon
mimikatz
Nessus icon
Nessus

mimikatz vs Nessus: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

mimikatz: Mimikatz is an open-source utility that enables viewing and saving Windows OS credentials. It can obtain passwords, hash dumps, PIN codes, and kerberos tickets from memory. It is mainly used by penetration testers and cybercriminals.

Nessus: Nessus is a vulnerability scanner used to scan networks and systems for security vulnerabilities. It is one of the most popular vulnerability assessment tools.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature mimikatz Nessus
Sugggest Score — —
Category Security & Privacy Security & Privacy
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

mimikatz
mimikatz

Description: Mimikatz is an open-source utility that enables viewing and saving Windows OS credentials. It can obtain passwords, hash dumps, PIN codes, and kerberos tickets from memory. It is mainly used by penetration testers and cybercriminals.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Nessus
Nessus

Description: Nessus is a vulnerability scanner used to scan networks and systems for security vulnerabilities. It is one of the most popular vulnerability assessment tools.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

mimikatz
mimikatz Features
  • Extracts plaintext passwords, hash dumps, PIN codes, and kerberos tickets from memory
  • Can perform pass-the-hash attacks
  • Can perform pass-the-ticket attacks
  • Can perform Over-Pass-the-Hash attacks
  • Can export security certificates
  • Can perform privilege escalation and lateral movement
Nessus
Nessus Features
  • Vulnerability scanning
  • Compliance auditing
  • Web application scanning
  • Malware detection
  • Configuration auditing

Pros & Cons Analysis

mimikatz
mimikatz

Pros

  • Very effective at extracting credentials from memory
  • Useful for penetration testing engagements
  • Open source and free

Cons

  • Mainly used for malicious purposes by cybercriminals
  • Unethical to use on systems without permission
  • May be detected by antivirus/EDR solutions
Nessus
Nessus

Pros

  • Wide range of vulnerability checks
  • User-friendly interface
  • Regular plugin updates
  • Integrates with other Tenable products
  • Can customize scans and policies

Cons

  • Limited mobile device scanning
  • No built-in remediation capabilities
  • Some advanced features require additional purchase

Pricing Comparison

mimikatz
mimikatz
  • Open Source
Nessus
Nessus
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

mimikatz
mimikatz
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Nessus
Nessus
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