qsa.sh vs ESET: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between qsa.sh and ESET comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
qsa.sh
Instant external security scan of your own IP from your terminal
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need vulnerability scanning features specifically
- • Run curl qsa.sh from your terminal to instantly scan your public IP for open ports, services, and vulnerabilities using open-source tools.
- • Results stream live and are never stored; you get a full external perspective without installing any software on your host.
ESET
Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers
Best for you if:
- • You need security features specifically
- • ESET provides enterprise endpoint security with antivirus and threat protection
- • It detects malware, ransomware, and zero-day threats with low system impact
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | $39.99/yearEssential Security |
Best For | Vulnerability Scanning | Security |
Rating | - | 4.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | No |
Choose qsa.sh or ESET?
Choose qsa.sh if
Instant external security scan of your own IP from your terminal
- Zero installation – just run curl; no agent or software to deploy.
- Transparent and auditable – uses only public open-source tools, no black box.
- Strictly limited to scanning your own IP, with consent gate and opt-out for operators.
- Your work is vulnerability scanning-shaped, not security-shaped
Choose ESET if
Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers
- Good antivirus
- Light on resources
- Active development
- Your work is security-shaped, not vulnerability scanning-shaped
| Feature | qsa.sh | ESET |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.6/5 1,319 reviews |
| Categories | Vulnerability ScanningTesting & QA | SecurityVulnerability Scanning |
In-Depth Analysis
qsa.sh
Instant external security scan of your own IP from your terminal
Strengths
- +Zero installation – just run curl; no agent or software to deploy.
- +Transparent and auditable – uses only public open-source tools, no black box.
- +Strictly limited to scanning your own IP, with consent gate and opt-out for operators.
Weaknesses
- -IPv4 only – IPv6 connections are refused.
- -Free scan limited to one per 24 hours and only top 1,000 ports; Full and Deep require payment.
Key features
Value 85/100. The pricing is generous for casual use with a free tier that covers the top 1,000 ports, but the $5/mo Full Pro tier is a steal for continuous scanning of all ports, while $7/scan for Deep is steep for occasional use.
Watch out: Free tier limited to one scan per 24h
ESET
Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers
Strengths
- +Good antivirus
- +Light on resources
- +Active development
- +Good features
- +Fair pricing
Weaknesses
- -UI dated
- -Per-device pricing
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Feature gaps
- -Support varies
Key features
Value 75/100. ESET's pricing is fair, with the Advanced Security tier at $59.99/year offering good value for comprehensive features.
Watch out: Price increases significantly with more devices
Pricing: qsa.sh vs ESET
| Plan | qsa.sh | ESET |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0/mo or Free Free | $39.99 year Essential Security |
| Tier 2 | $5/mo Full Pro | $59.99 year Advanced Security |
| Tier 3 | $7/scan Deep | $89.99 year Ultimate Security |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on qsa.sh pricing and ESET pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
qsa.sh has a free tier. ESET is paid only.
Go with: qsa.sh
Want the highest-rated option?
ESET is rated 4.6/5. qsa.sh has no ratings yet.
Go with: ESET
Value user reviews?
qsa.sh: no ratings yet. ESET: 1,319 reviews (4.6/5).
Go with: ESET
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
qsa.sh is freemium. ESET is paid. qsa.sh lets you start free.
What's your use case?
qsa.sh is a vulnerability scanning tool. ESET is in security. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
ESET is rated 4.6/5; qsa.sh has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
ESET
- Our pick for this comparison
qsa.sh
- Has a free tier
- Better fit for vulnerability scanning
The Bottom Line
ESET is our pick. qsa.sh has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is qsa.sh or ESET better?
ESET is rated in our evaluation. qsa.sh is freemium and ESET is paid.
What are qsa.sh and ESET used for?
qsa.sh: Instant external security scan of your own IP from your terminal. ESET: Cybersecurity solutions for businesses and consumers.
What does qsa.sh cost vs ESET?
qsa.sh is freemium (free tier + paid plans). ESET is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.
