Free tools for every PCI DSS requirement.
The open-source and no-cost tools that help you implement each of the 12 PCI DSS requirements — and exactly which requirements each one covers. Filter to your SAQ type to see only what applies.
These are examples to get you started, not endorsements. A tool helps you implement a control; you still complete and self-assess the SAQ. A few requirements (ASV scans, penetration testing) need a paid service — noted where they appear.
Network security controls
Firewalls and equivalent controls that isolate and protect the systems that touch card data.
Open-source firewall/router for segmenting and protecting your network.
Covers: Req 1Built-in, free network controls in AWS/Azure/GCP to isolate the card-data environment.
Covers: Req 1Free host-based firewalls for individual servers.
Covers: Req 1Secure configurations
Harden systems, change vendor defaults, and remove unnecessary services and accounts.
Free hardening guides and an assessment tool for common systems.
Covers: Req 2Free vulnerability and misconfiguration scanner for containers, code, and IaC.
Covers: Req 6, Req 2Protect stored account data
Store as little card data as possible, and render anything you must keep unreadable.
The cheapest Requirement 3 control: outsource card handling to your PSP and store nothing.
Covers: Req 3Free full-disk encryption built into the operating system.
Covers: Req 3Encrypt data in transit
Use strong cryptography whenever cardholder data crosses open or public networks.
Free tools to test the strength of your TLS setup.
Covers: Req 4, Req 11Protect against malware
Run and maintain anti-malware on systems that are commonly affected.
Free, built-in anti-malware on Windows.
Covers: Req 5Secure systems & software
Patch known vulnerabilities promptly and build software securely.
Free automated dependency updates that fix known-vulnerable libraries.
Covers: Req 6Free vulnerability and misconfiguration scanner for containers, code, and IaC.
Covers: Req 6, Req 2Restrict access (need-to-know)
Grant the least access required, by role and business need.
Identify & authenticate users
Unique IDs, strong authentication, and multi-factor for remote/admin access.
Restrict physical access
Control physical access to systems, media, and the premises that handle card data.
Free templates for physical-access procedures and logging.
Covers: Req 9, Req 12Log & monitor
Record access to systems and card data, protect the logs, and review them.
Free, open-source SIEM with log analysis and file-integrity monitoring.
Covers: Req 10, Req 11Test security regularly
Vulnerability scans, penetration tests, and file-integrity monitoring.
Free tools to test the strength of your TLS setup.
Covers: Req 4, Req 11Free, open-source SIEM with log analysis and file-integrity monitoring.
Covers: Req 10, Req 11Quarterly external scans must use a PCI SSC Approved Scanning Vendor, and pen testing is a paid service — not free, though some vendors offer trials. Start from the official ASV list.
Covers: Req 11Policies & program
Security policies, risk assessment, awareness training, and vendor management.
Free templates for physical-access procedures and logging.
Covers: Req 9, Req 12Free, ready-to-adapt security policies, legal contracts, and audit-evidence templates.
Covers: Req 12Free risk-register starting point and security-awareness materials.
Covers: Req 12No matching requirements.