Description: Nessus Professional is a commercial version of the Nessus vulnerability scanner, specifically designed for cybersecurity professionals. This software allows users to identify and assess vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications, providing a comprehensive view of the security of the technological infrastructure. Nessus Professional stands out for its intuitive interface and its ability to perform thorough scans, making it easier to detect weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Among its advanced features are the ability to customize scans, integration with other security tools, and the generation of detailed reports that help security teams prioritize and remediate vulnerabilities. Additionally, Nessus Professional is regularly updated with new plugins that allow for the detection of the latest threats and known vulnerabilities, making it an essential tool for proactive security management. Its relevance in the field of cybersecurity is undeniable, as it enables organizations to comply with security regulations and protect their critical assets against an ever-evolving threat landscape.
History: Nessus was created in 1998 by Renaud Deraison as an open-source project. Over the years, it has transformed into one of the most recognized vulnerability scanning tools in the cybersecurity industry. In 2005, Tenable Network Security, the company founded by Deraison, launched Nessus as a commercial product, allowing for the inclusion of advanced features and technical support. Since then, Nessus Professional has continuously evolved, incorporating new functionalities and updates to adapt to the changing needs of the cybersecurity market.
Uses: Nessus Professional is primarily used to conduct security audits on networks and systems, identifying vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. It is also employed to comply with security regulations, such as PCI DSS, and to conduct penetration testing. Security teams use it to generate reports that help prioritize corrective actions and improve the overall security posture of the organization.
Examples: An example of the use of Nessus Professional is in a financial services company that conducts regular scans of its infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities in its data management systems. Another case is that of a government organization that uses Nessus to comply with security requirements set by federal regulations, ensuring that its systems are protected against cyber threats.
