Which programming language is used to write custom scripts for the Nmap Scripting Engine?

The Nmap Scripting Engine (NSE) is specifically designed to extend Nmap's capabilities through the use of scripts that can automate various tasks during network exploration and security auditing. The scripts for NSE are written in Lua, which is a lightweight, embeddable scripting language. Lua is chosen for its simplicity, efficiency, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for implementing the NSE functionality.

The use of Lua allows users to create powerful scripts that can perform tasks such as network discovery, vulnerability detection, and service enumeration while maintaining a relatively low overhead. This design choice enhances the utility of Nmap and allows for rapid development and readability of scripts.

The other programming languages mentioned, such as Python, Java, and C++, may be used for various purposes in different contexts but do not apply to the Nmap Scripting Engine specifically. Hence, the correct answer highlights the unique role of Lua in enabling customization and automation within Nmap.