How to Install Nessus on Kali Linux
Kali Linux is a popular operating system among cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts. It comes packed with a wide range of security tools and utilities, making it an ideal platform for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and security auditing. One of the most widely used security tools in Kali Linux is Nessus. In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing Nessus on Kali Linux, helping you to leverage its powerful features for vulnerability assessment and penetration testing.
Prerequisites
Before you begin the installation process, ensure that your Kali Linux system meets the following prerequisites:
1. A Kali Linux operating system installed on your machine.
2. Sudo privileges to install packages and make system-wide changes.
3. A stable internet connection.
Step 1: Update Your System
To ensure that your Kali Linux system is up-to-date, run the following commands in the terminal:
“`
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
“`
Step 2: Install Dependencies
Nessus requires certain dependencies to be installed on your system. Run the following command to install the necessary packages:
“`
sudo apt install libxml2-dev libssl-dev libsqlite3-dev libpcre3-dev libpcap-dev libdnet-dev libghash-dev libev-dev libevent-dev libpam0g-dev libgpg-error-dev libgcrypt20-dev libpam0g-dev
“`
Step 3: Install Java
Nessus requires Java to run, so you need to install the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). Run the following command to install OpenJDK:
“`
sudo apt install openjdk-8-jdk
“`
Step 4: Download and Install Nessus
Now, it’s time to download and install Nessus on your Kali Linux system. Open the terminal and execute the following commands:
“`
cd /opt
sudo wget nessus-8.5.0.tar.gz
sudo tar -xvzf nessus-8.5.0.tar.gz
cd nessus-8.5.0
sudo ./nessus-install.sh
“`
During the installation process, you will be prompted to enter a license key. Since Nessus is a paid product, you will need to purchase a license from Tenable Network Security. However, you can use the trial version for a limited period. Once you have entered the license key, the installation process will continue.
Step 5: Starting Nessus
After the installation is complete, you can start the Nessus service using the following command:
“`
sudo /opt/nessus/sbin/nessus-fetch -u
Replace `
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully installed Nessus on your Kali Linux system. Now, you can leverage its powerful features for vulnerability assessment and penetration testing. Remember to keep your Nessus installation up-to-date and always use the latest plugins for accurate results. Happy hacking!
