Question 1

What is the Open Source Security Atlas?

Accepted Answer

The Open Source Security Atlas is the largest, most comprehensive directory of free open source cybersecurity tools and software. We curate tools, scripts, frameworks, and more to help practitioners quickly find the right solution for any security task.

Question 2

How does the Smart Search work?

Accepted Answer

Our Smart Search uses vector embeddings to understand the *intent* behind your query, not just keywords. When you describe a security task, it finds tools whose functions and descriptions semantically match your goal, leading to more relevant results than traditional search.

Question 3

Is the Atlas completely free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 100%. The Open Source Security Atlas is free to browse and use, now and forever. We are committed to keeping security knowledge accessible to everyone.

Question 4

How do you decide which tools to include?

Accepted Answer

We have a multi-step curation process that prioritizes practitioner value. We monitor community sources, check project health (commits, stars, licenses), tag and map tools to frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK, and have a final review before publishing. We do not list unmaintained or purely commercial software.

Question 5

How often is the directory updated?

Accepted Answer

The directory is updated daily through a combination of automated indexing of GitHub and manual curation by our team. This ensures we have the latest commit activity and are constantly adding new, relevant open source tools.

Question 6

Can I submit a tool to the directory?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We welcome community contributions. Please use the Submit a Tool (/submit) page. All submissions are reviewed by our team before being added.

Question 7

Do you rank the tools in the directory?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not rank tools. Our goal is to provide rich, objective metadata (like GitHub stars, commit activity, and framework mappings) and powerful filters. This allows you to evaluate and choose the best tool for your specific use case and environment.

Question 8

How can I report an issue or give feedback?

Accepted Answer

We rely on community feedback to improve. You can use the floating 'Give Feedback' button on any page or contact us (/feedback) directly. We appreciate you helping us make the Atlas better!

Question 9

Are there free SIEM, EDR, or XDR solutions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many powerful, open-source alternatives to expensive commercial security software exist. You can find popular options like Wazuh (SIEM/XDR) and Velociraptor (EDR/DFIR) in our directory. Use the Discover page (/discover) and filter by categories like 'Security Operations (SecOps)' to find them.

Question 10

How can I find a free vulnerability scanner?

Accepted Answer

Our Smart Search (/smart-search) is the best tool for this. Instead of generic keywords, describe exactly what you need in natural language. For example, try searching for 'find a vulnerability scanner for web applications' or 'python script to scan for vulnerable dependencies'. The more specific you are, the better the results.

Question 11

How can I find an open-source alternative to a commercial tool?

Accepted Answer

Our Smart Search (/smart-search) is perfect for this. Instead of just typing the commercial tool's name, describe the job you want to do. For example, instead of 'CrowdStrike alternative', search for 'open source endpoint detection and response tool'.

Question 12

How do I find tools for cloud security (CSPM)?

Accepted Answer

You can use our Smart Search (/smart-search) with a query like 'cloud security posture management tools' or browse the Cloud Security category (/discover?domains=Cloud+Security) directly on our Discover page.

Question 13

Are there tools for network security and monitoring?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The directory includes many open-source network security tools, from high-performance IDS/IPS systems like Suricata to network traffic analyzers like Zeek. Start by exploring the Network Security category (/discover?domains=Network+Security).

Question 14

Can I find resources for penetration testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have a dedicated Penetration Testing & Red Teaming category (/discover?domains=Penetration+Testing+%26+Red+Teaming) that includes frameworks like Metasploit, scanners, and exploitation tools. You can also explore our MITRE ATT&CK Explorer (/mitre-explorer) to find tools for specific tactics like Initial Access or Lateral Movement.

Question 15

What about open-source security scripts or frameworks?

Accepted Answer

Our directory isn't just for standalone tools. We also list hundreds of useful scripts, libraries, and full frameworks. On the Discover page (/discover), you can filter by 'Resource Type' to narrow your search to just 'Script', 'Framework', or 'Library/SDK' to find exactly what you need.

Open Source Security Atlas

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