How to Run Vulnerability Scans with OpenVAS
How to Run Vulnerability Scans with OpenVAS
OpenVAS is an open-source tool that helps IT professionals and cybersecurity enthusiasts conduct thorough vulnerability assessments on their networks. This guide walks you through the steps to successfully run vulnerability scans with OpenVAS. Ensuring your network is free from vulnerabilities is crucial for maintaining a secure IT environment.
Prerequisites
- Installation of OpenVAS on your server. See our guide on Installing OpenVAS on Linux for a detailed walkthrough.
- Basic knowledge of networking and security protocols.
- Administrative access to the systems being scanned.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Start the OpenVAS Services
After installing OpenVAS, ensure that its services are running. You can start the OpenVAS manager and scanner services using the following commands:
sudo systemctl start openvas-managersudo systemctl start openvas-scanner
Step 2: Access the OpenVAS Web Interface
Open your web browser and navigate to the IP address of your OpenVAS installation. Log in using your admin credentials.
Step 3: Configure Scanning Targets
Within the OpenVAS dashboard, navigate to the Configuration section and select Targets. Here, you can specify the IP addresses or ranges of systems you wish to scan.
Step 4: Create a New Scan Task
Go to the Scans section and click on Tasks. Create a new task, provide a name, and associate it with the target you configured earlier. Select the desired scan configuration from the list, such as a full and fast scan.
Step 5: Execute the Scan
Once your task is set up, click Start to initiate the scan. OpenVAS will begin to analyze the target systems for vulnerabilities.
Troubleshooting
Scan Fails to Start
Ensure that the OpenVAS services are running and check for firewall rules that may block scanning activities.
Incomplete Scan Results
Verify that all systems in the target configuration are accessible. Network issues or insufficient privileges can prevent OpenVAS from gathering complete results.
Summary Checklist
- Verify OpenVAS services are running.
- Access the web interface with administrative credentials.
- Configure and verify scanning targets.
- Create and start a new scan task.
- Review scan results and address identified vulnerabilities.
By following this guide, you can effectively use OpenVAS to identify security vulnerabilities in your network, helping you fortify your IT infrastructure against potential threats.
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