Get Started with Tenable Nessus

Prepare

1. Ensure that your setup meets the minimum system requirements:

   • Hardware Requirements
   • Software Requirements
2. Obtain your Activation Code for Tenable Nessus.

Install and Configure Tenable Nessus

1. Follow the installation steps depending on your Tenable Nessus software and operating system, as described in Install Tenable Nessus.

2. Perform the initial configuration steps.

Create and Configure Scans

1. Run a host discovery scan to identify assets on your network.
2. Create a scan.
3. Select a scan template that fits your needs.
   • Use a Tenable-provided scanner template.
   • (Tenable Nessus Manager only) Use a Tenable-provided Agent template.
   • Create and use a user-defined template by creating a policy.
4. Configure the scan:

   • Configure the scan settings available for your template.

     For information about scan targets, see Scan Targets.

   • (Optional) To configure live results, see Live Results.
   • (Optional) If you are running a credentialed scan, configure credentials.
   • (Optional) If you are running a compliance scan, select the compliance audits your scan includes.
   • (Optional) If you are using an advanced scan template, select what plugins your scan includes.
5. Launch the scan.

View and Analyze Scan Results

• View scan results.
• View and manage vulnerabilities.
• Manage scan folders.
• Create a scan report or export.

Refine Tenable Nessus Settings

• Adjust scan settings to address warning messages.
• Monitor scanner health.
• Configure Tenable Nessus advanced settings.