The Nmap Scripting Engine (NSE) is a powerful feature of the Nmap security tool that enables users to automate and extend network scans using custom scripts. With NSE, users can perform advanced tasks such as vulnerability detection, network discovery, and service enumeration, going beyond basic port scanning. Scripts are written in the Lua programming language and can be shared or customized to fit specific security needs, making NSE a flexible tool for both security professionals and network administrators.