Dive into the world of network security with this guide to using Nessus, one of the most trusted vulnerability scanners in the industry. Starting with the basics, you’ll learn how to install and configure Nessus on various platforms, setting up a robust environment for hands-on practice. The course gradually introduces essential vulnerability assessment concepts, covering passive and active information gathering, manual vulnerability analysis, and the theoretical foundations for a robust security framework.
Give your career the gift of Coursera Plus with $160 off, billed annually. Save today.
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Distinguish between unauthenticated/authenticated scans and network/web application scans.
Automate vulnerability scanning processes and create custom professional reports.
Integrate Nmap results into Nessus.
Explain the concepts of second opinion scanning.
Details to know
Add to your LinkedIn profile
September 2024
3 assignments
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review
There are 6 modules in this course
In this module, we will introduce the significance of network security and explain why using a vulnerability scanner like Nessus is crucial. You'll learn about the growing threats in the digital landscape and how security breaches can lead to severe repercussions.
What's included
1 video1 reading
In this module, we will guide you through the installation process of Nessus on Windows, Linux, and macOS. You’ll also learn about the differences between the free and professional versions of Nessus, and how to set up your Nessus account to begin vulnerability scanning.
What's included
2 videos
In this module, we will delve into the foundational concepts of vulnerability analysis, covering the theoretical aspects as well as practical techniques for gathering information about target networks. You'll also explore manual methods to assess vulnerabilities before relying on automated tools.
What's included
4 videos1 assignment
In this module, we will provide an in-depth walkthrough of Nessus, focusing on its various tabs and features. You'll learn how to organize scans, set up basic and advanced scanning techniques, and use different Nessus resources to optimize your vulnerability assessments.
What's included
7 videos
In this module, we will apply Nessus to real-world scenarios, showing how to create reusable scans, perform compliance audits, and secure web applications. You'll also learn about authenticated scans and explore alternatives to Nessus for specific security assessments.
What's included
8 videos
In this module, we will focus on creating a fully customized vulnerability assessment report. You’ll learn how to plan and document your scanning activities, organize results, and generate detailed reports that meet the specific needs of your security projects.
What's included
1 video2 assignments
Instructor
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Security
Why people choose Coursera for their career
New to Security? Start here.
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can preview the first video and view the syllabus before you enroll. You must purchase the course to access content not included in the preview.
If you decide to enroll in the course before the session start date, you will have access to all of the lecture videos and readings for the course. You’ll be able to submit assignments once the session starts.
Once you enroll and your session begins, you will have access to all videos and other resources, including reading items and the course discussion forum. You’ll be able to view and submit practice assessments, and complete required graded assignments to earn a grade and a Course Certificate.