The five best network scanning tools that allow network administrators to scan and manage File Transfer Protocol (FTP) ports and network devices in 2026 are Nmap, Advanced IP Scanner, Angry IP Scanner, Nessus, and Paessler PRTG. Network administrators use these tools to find open FTP ports (usually Port 21), check for security gaps, and manage active machines on the network.
What it does: Nmap is a free, open-source tool used to explore networks and check security. It is highly favored by administrators for large networks.
Why it is great for FTP: It can quickly find open FTP ports across thousands of machines. It can also tell you what software version your FTP server is running to help you see if it is outdated. Advanced IP Scanner
What it does: Advanced IP Scanner is a free and reliable network scanner designed specifically for Windows systems.
Why it is great for FTP: This tool gives you easy, direct access to network resources. It can locate active FTP servers on a local network and lets you connect to them straight from the app’s clean visual interface. Angry IP Scanner
What it does: Angry IP Scanner is a free, fast, and open-source cross-platform port and IP scanner. It works smoothly on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Why it is great for FTP: It is lightweight and built for speed. It helps you perform quick port scans to see which IP addresses have an open or active FTP port without slowing down your computer.
What it does: Made by Tenable, Nessus is the industry standard for vulnerability scanning and network security.
Why it is great for FTP: FTP can sometimes have safety flaws, like allowing anonymous log-ins. Nessus deeply scans FTP services to find security bugs, weak passwords, and misconfigurations so you can fix them fast. Paessler PRTG Network Monitor Best Network Scanner Apps in 2026 – Fing