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Publisher · Open source

Nmap Project

The Nmap Project develops the Nmap network scanner and the Npcap Windows packet-capture library. Nmap is free for end users under the Nmap Public Source License, and the project sells OEM licences for redistribution in proprietary products and for larger Npcap deployments.

Licensing at a Glance

  • Open source
  • OEM / bundled

  1. Nmap is distributed under the Nmap Public Source License (NPSL), which is based on the GNU GPLv2 with additional terms, conditions and exceptions.[1]

  2. The NPSL prohibits redistribution and use of Nmap within proprietary hardware and software products; the project funds itself by selling an Nmap OEM licence for companies that embed Nmap.[2]

  3. Nmap 7.90, 7.91 and 7.92, the first releases under the NPSL, may also be used under the previous Nmap licence terms; the exact terms for a given version are in its LICENSE or COPYING file.[3]

  4. An Nmap OEM Redistribution License allows unlimited redistribution of Nmap within proprietary products and includes a Windows OEM edition with features such as a silent installer.[4]

  5. The free Npcap licence allows only five installs (with some exceptions); Npcap OEM Internal-use licences range from 100 seats to perpetual unlimited installs, and OEM Redistribution licences allow unlimited installs bundled with a product.[5]

Products

References

  1. Nmap Public Source License · nmap.org · retrieved 2026-09-27
  2. Nmap Public Source License · nmap.org · retrieved 2026-09-27
  3. Nmap Public Source License · nmap.org · retrieved 2026-09-27
  4. Nmap OEM Edition—Redistribution License · nmap.org · retrieved 2026-09-27
  5. Npcap OEM · npcap.com · retrieved 2026-09-27
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