How to Install Nessus on Kali Linux

It is a popular choice among security professionals and enthusiasts, due to the tool's compatibility with both Windows, MacOS and Linux.

So how can you download and install Nessus on Kali, a widely used penetration testing platform? With this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to quickly get Nessus up and running to proactively identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in your network.

How to Install Nessus on Kali Linux

Unlike many security tools, Nessus is not installed on Kali Linux. But it is very easy to download and install this tool. Follow these steps to install Nessus on Kali Linux:

1. Download the Nessus package for Debian on the Nessus website and make sure you set the Platform to Linux-Debian-amd64.

2. When the download is complete, open the Linux terminal and navigate to the location where you downloaded the Nessus file.

3. Install Nessus with this command:

dpkg -i Nessus-10.4.1-debian9_amd64.deb 

4. Start the Nessus service with this command:

systemctl start nessusd

5. On a browser, go to https://kali:8834/. A warning page will display.

How to Install Nessus on Kali Linux Picture 1

6. Click Advanced. Then select Accept Risk and Continue .

7. Select the Nessus Product you like. If you want the free version of Nessus, click Nessus Essentials.

How to Install Nessus on Kali Linux Picture 2

8. Enter your name and email address to receive an activation code by email. Paste the activation code in the space provided, and then select a username and password.

9. Allow Nessus to download required plugins.

How to Install Nessus on Kali Linux Picture 3

10. Once the plugin download is complete, you can start using the Nessus service.

How to start using Nessus

So how do you get started using Nessus?

1. To start the Nessus service, run the following command in the terminal:

systemctl start nessus

2. Next, enter the following URL in the browser: https://kali:8834/

3. Click New Scan to start scanning for vulnerabilities

Nessus is a must-have tool for security assessment and penetration testing. Its user-friendly interface and easy installation process make it a favorite of professionals. If problems arise during the installation, restart the device or update the plugin from the terminal.

Lesley Montoya

Update 19 February 2023