In Metasploit, what kind of tool is used only to gather information or scan, not to actually break into a system or get a shell?

The kind of tool used only to gather information or scan, not to actually break into a system or get a shell, in Metasploit is an Auxiliary Module. An Auxiliary Module is a specific type of Metasploit module designed to perform reconnaissance and information gathering tasks. These modules are employed for purposes such as scanning networks to identify open ports, enumerating services running on a target system, or collecting public information, without attempting to exploit any vulnerabilities or gain unauthorized access. For instance, an Auxiliary Module can scan for specific network services or check for default credentials, providing intelligence about the target environment. Their function is strictly limited to data collection and assessment, distinguishing them fundamentally from exploit modules or payloads that are designed to compromise a system or provide interactive access like a shell.