Module 2: Installing Nessus Essentials

1. Download and install Nessus

1. Search for "Nessus Essentials download" on Google, or use the direct link : https://www.tenable.com/products/nessus/nessus-essentials

2. On the Nessus Essentials download page, fill out the Register for an Activation Code form with your details. Once completed, you’ll receive an activation key sent to your email.

3. Retrieve the Activation Key:

   • Check your email for a message from Nessus that contains the download link and your activation key.

   • Click the download link in the email to access the Nessus Essentials download page.

4. Choose the Correct Installer:

   • On the download page, select the appropriate version for your operating system (e.g., Windows Server, Windows 11).

   • Agree to the terms and conditions, then proceed to download the installer.

5. Run the Nessus Installer:

   • Once downloaded, open the Nessus installer.

   • Follow the prompts, accepting the default installation location, and click Install.

   • When the installation is complete, click Finish.

6. Access the Nessus Interface:

   • After installation, Nessus will launch in a local web interface (usually accessible at https://localhost:8834).

   • Save this URL for easy access, as you’ll use it to manage and conduct scans in Nessus.

7. Bypass Security Warnings:

   • Your browser may show a security warning due to a self-signed certificate. Click Advanced and then Proceed to access the Nessus interface.

8. Activate Nessus Essentials:

   • On the Nessus interface, select Nessus Essentials.

   • Enter the activation code sent to your email to activate Nessus Essentials.

9. Set Up Your Nessus Account:

   • Create a username and password for your Nessus account. Make sure to remember these credentials, as you’ll need them to log into Nessus.

10. Initialize Nessus:

    • Nessus will begin initializing, which may take some time as it downloads definitions and sets up the environment.

    • This process can take a while.

11. Verify Completion:

• Once initialization is finished, Nessus is ready for use. You can now start configuring and running vulnerability scans.