Generate an API Key

In Tenable Nessus Manager, you can generate an API key from the API Keys tab in the Tenable Nessus user interface. Generating an API key can help you automate various tasks and integrate Tenable Nessus with other security tools and systems within your organization. The API key does not expire until you generate a new API key.

In addition to Tenable Nessus Manager, the API Keys tab may also be available in Tenable Nessus Professional and Tenable Nessus Expert, depending on your license and configuration. For more information, contact your Tenable Customer Success Manager.

Note: You may not directly access Tenable Nessus scanning APIs to configure or launch scans, except as permitted as part of the Tenable Security Center and Tenable Vulnerability Management enterprise solutions.

Caution: Generating a new API key replaces any existing keys and deauthorizes any linked applications.

To generate an API key:

  1. In Tenable Nessus, in the top navigation bar, click Settings.

    The About page appears.

  2. In the left navigation bar, click My Account.

    The My Account page appears.

  3. Click the API Keys tab.
  4. Click Generate.

    A dialog box appears, confirming your selection to generate a new API key.

  5. Click Generate.

    Your new API key appears.

    Tip: To access the Tenable Nessus API documentation, navigate to <Tenable Nessushost>:<port>/api#/overview.