Rapid 7 acquires Metasploit -

[imported_freedom56]

As most of you know by now rapid 7 has acquired HD Moore's Metasploit project. (metasploit dot com (also rapid7 dot com))

After reading several blogs and reports on the various websites, it seems clear they intend to keep Metasploit open source as well as integrate it into Rapid 7's software. I hope this remains the case, however there seems to be growing concern that it will eventually go completely commercial.

I don't think HD would allow that and since he is the new CSO for Rapid 7 and will remain chief architect for MS i hope he has some control over that. Others have said that this merger will be good for the commercial security tool scene as it will generate more competition and possible lower prices (yeah right).

My question is two fold

1. is this a good move for MS users? (it will allow for more resources to be put toward the project)
2. Do you think MS will eventually be commercial only?

[thorin]

1. is this a good move for MS users? (it will allow for more resources to be put toward the project)

It's hard to say. Personally I think HD & gang deserve some decent cash for the work they've done and the work they will do. In addition, if they become developers paid by a company then hopefully some of the testing and other grunty kind of work can be taken off them so they have more time to focus on the things that we as consumers of MS actually care about (i.e.: Exploits that work & large variety in exploits [targets]).

2. Do you think MS will eventually be commercial only?

My prediction ... it'll end up sort of like Nessus.

The main framework and a base set of payloads/exploits will remain free but the more advanced or up-to-date payloads/exploits will require payment or delayed release (like the Nessus plugin feeds).

[imported_wyze]

1. is this a good move for MS users? (it will allow for more resources to be put toward the project)
2. Do you think MS will eventually be commercial only?

For now yes and yes (respectively).

/me gets to coding the next gen framework in python

[Archangel-Amael]

My prediction ... it'll end up sort of like Nessus.

Which is how OpenVAS got started.

[balding_parrot]

There are already other threads on this subject, no need for another one.