shannon
Autonomous AI pentester that analyzes source code and executes real exploits on web apps.
Analyze source code, identify attack paths, and execute real exploits locally.
Shannon is an autonomous AI penetration testing agent that bridges the gap between fast software releases and yearly security audits. It is designed for application security professionals and developers who want to run exploit-backed security tests against staging environments.
What it is
It analyzes your web application's source code to uncover potential attack vectors, then uses browser automation and command-line tools to execute real exploits. Only vulnerabilities backed by a working proof-of-concept make it into the final report.
Who it's for
Suited for devsecops engineers and security teams needing automated, continuous penetration testing against staging environments. It is not a replacement for human pentesters, nor should it ever be run against production systems.
Key features
Exploit-Driven Reporting
Only vulnerabilities with a working proof-of-concept are included in the final report to eliminate noise.
Multi-Provider AI Support
Runs on Anthropic, OpenAI, xAI, AWS Bedrock, or custom API gateways using your own keys.
Local Command-Line Agent
Execute the full agent locally from your command line using Node.js and Docker.
Professional Output Formats
Generates professional PDF reports and SARIF output files for your security pipelines.
Up and running in 3 steps
Our honest verdict
What's great
- Executes real exploits rather than just static scanning to prove actual risk.
- Brings your own key (BYOK) support across multiple major AI providers.
- Integrates directly into local workflows and CI/CD pipelines.
- Provides professional PDF reports and SARIF outputs for findings.
Where it falls short
- Requires Docker and Node.js 18+ installed on your local machine or runner.
- Consumes significant external API credits or requires compatible paid subscriptions.
- Cybersecurity workloads can trigger real-time AI provider safeguards that interrupt scans.
- Must be carefully restricted to non-production staging environments due to active exploitation.
Pricing & license
Free under its AGPL-3.0 licence. The primary ongoing cost comes from running your own infrastructure, Docker containers, and paying for the underlying AI model API credits or provider subscriptions.
Open remote AI-training roles
880 open remote AI-training roles, updated November 15, 2026; most pay $20–$175 an hour. Zekai lists them free; the application goes to the employer’s platform.
Alternatives
These reviewed AI tools do the same job instantly — from our scored directory.
Use it, or have us set it up
FAQ
Can I run Shannon against production systems?
No. Shannon actively executes real exploits and should only be run against applications and environments you own or have explicit written authorization to test.
Which AI providers are supported?
Shannon supports Anthropic, OpenAI, xAI, AWS Bedrock, and other providers through custom base URLs and model configurations.
Does Shannon output SARIF files?
Yes, Shannon generates professional PDF reports as well as standard SARIF files.
