Tools: Nessus, OpenVAS

Tools for Vulnerability Scanning: Nessus and OpenVAS

 

---

1. Nessus

Developer: Tenable, Inc.
Type: Commercial vulnerability scanner (free for limited use via Nessus Essentials).

Overview

Nessus is a widely used vulnerability assessment tool that helps identify security flaws, misconfigurations, and missing patches across systems and networks. It is designed for both internal and external scanning.

 

---

Key Features:

1. Comprehensive Vulnerability Detection:
   • Detects misconfigurations, outdated software, malware, and unpatched systems.
   • Covers operating systems, databases, applications, and cloud environments.
2. Extensive Vulnerability Database:
   • Powered by Tenable’s vulnerability database with over 180,000 plugins (updated regularly).
3. Customizable Scans:
   • Supports pre-configured scan templates (e.g., malware detection, compliance scans).
   • Users can create custom policies and plugins to meet specific needs.
4. Scalability and Performance:
   • Supports large networks and fast scanning speeds.
5. Reporting and Integration:
   • Provides detailed reports with vulnerability severity ratings (CVSS scores).
   • Integrates with SIEM and other security tools.

 

---

Nessus Editions:

• Nessus Essentials: Free version, limited to 16 IP addresses.
• Nessus Professional: Paid version for consultants and security professionals.
• Tenable.io / Tenable.sc: Enterprise-grade solutions for vulnerability management.

 

---

Advantages of Nessus:

• User-friendly interface with clear scan results.
• Regularly updated vulnerability checks.
• Extensive support and documentation.

Limitations:

• Commercial versions can be expensive for small organizations.
• Limited free version (16 IP addresses only).

 

---

2. OpenVAS (Open Vulnerability Assessment System)

Developer: Greenbone Networks
Type: Open-source vulnerability scanner.

Overview

OpenVAS is a free and open-source vulnerability scanning framework. It is widely used for network security testing and assessment, providing comprehensive detection of vulnerabilities.

 

---

Key Features:

1. Open-Source Framework:
   • Completely free and maintained by the Greenbone Community.
   • Regular updates with vulnerability tests from the Greenbone Vulnerability Management (GVM) feed.
2. Extensive Vulnerability Coverage:
   • Covers over 100,000 vulnerability tests and supports continuous updates.
   • Detects outdated software, missing patches, and misconfigurations.
3. Customizable Scans:
   • Allows users to define custom scanning policies and configurations.
4. Scalability:
   • Supports large-scale network scanning.
5. Integration:
   • Can integrate with tools like Metasploit and Kali Linux for penetration testing.

 

---

Advantages of OpenVAS:

• Fully open-source and free to use.
• Supports comprehensive vulnerability scans.
• Regular updates through GVM feeds.

Limitations:

• Configuration and deployment can be complex for beginners.
• Slower compared to commercial tools like Nessus.
• Limited support compared to commercial products.

 

---

Comparison: Nessus vs OpenVAS

 

---

Use Cases

• Nessus: Suitable for organizations looking for an easy-to-use, enterprise-level vulnerability scanner with professional support.
• OpenVAS: Best for security professionals, penetration testers, or small teams looking for a free, powerful vulnerability scanning solution.