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OpenVAS, or Open Vulnerability Assessment Scanner, is used to test programs and web applications for vulnerabilities. Gain critical cybersecurity skills as you learn how to use the various features offered by the open-source tool.

What is OpenVAS?

OpenVAS is a vulnerability scanning and assessment software used on computer systems and networks. It allows cybersecurity professionals to scan various types of systems, including Linux, Windows, and Unix. The scanner has a user-friendly interface and is customizable to suit individual developer and analyst needs. To find security threats, OpenVAS uses a database of known vulnerabilities and checks for their presence in the target system. The scan results are delivered in an easy-to-understand format that provides remediation advice to help users address the detected vulnerabilities.1

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OpenVAS tutorial curriculum

As you embark on your OpenVAS education, you can learn critical skills needed for jobs in cybersecurity and related software fields. Some of the concepts you may learn in an OpenVAS course include:

  • Running the OpenVAS scanner to find vulnerabilities on websites and other applications exposed to the Internet.
  • Conducting a risk assessment, reporting on findings, remediating identified risks, and scheduling vulnerability scans to meet compliance standards.
  • Operating OpenVAS on Kali Linux and keeping your software development environment secure with regular vulnerability scanning.

Start building the knowledge you need to work in cybersecurity with edX. From accelerated boot camps to comprehensive programs that allow you to earn a bachelor’s degree or (for more advanced learners) a master’s degree, there are many different learning formats available to fit your needs. Busy professionals can even take advantage of executive education courses tailored to those in leadership and management positions. Find the right course for you.

Explore jobs that use OpenVAS

With many businesses operating online, cybersecurity is a top priority for organizations across industries. Individuals who know the basics of how to protect people and businesses from cyber criminals can benefit from adding OpenVAS knowledge to their skill set. Professional roles in which OpenVAS experience can be helpful include:

  • Software quality engineer: Executes software tests to identify and pinpoint software problems and their underlying causes, as well as test system modifications to ensure implementation readiness.2 They can use OpenVAS to document all software and application defects and report them to developers.
  • Security control assessor: Conducts thorough assessments of security controls in IT systems. Professionals in this career evaluate management, operational, and technical controls to determine their effectiveness with the goal of enhancing these controls to ensure maximum security.3
  • Information security analyst: Protects computer networks and information by identifying vulnerabilities and implementing new security controls. They may do this with OpenVAS reports. Individuals in this role often act as a first-line responder against security breaches and viruses.4
  • Cyber instructor: Develops interactive training exercises by using real-world tools and programs like OpenVAS. They may also create training materials suited to a target audience and assess the effectiveness of current training programs.5

Depending on the industry and organization you work for, the roles listed above may require you to obtain additional knowledge or credentials. You may want to consider a cybersecurity boot camp to learn the basics of the field at a quicker pace. If you’re interested in learning how to develop secure software, then a coding boot camp could be beneficial to you. Identifying your skill gaps can help you determine the best educational path to meet your goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is OpenVAS used for?

    OpenVAS is an open-source vulnerability scanner used for detecting and managing vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. It helps in identifying security flaws, misconfigurations, and potential threats in the target system by performing various scans and tests. Security professionals, system administrators, and penetration testers can use OpenVAS to ensure the security and compliance of their IT infrastructure.

    What is the major difference between Zenmap and OpenVAS?

    The major difference between Zenmap and OpenVAS is that Zenmap is a network scanning tool that provides a graphical interface for Nmap, while OpenVAS is a vulnerability scanning tool that checks for security vulnerabilities in a network or system. Zenmap focuses on identifying hosts and services on a network, while OpenVAS identifies vulnerabilities and provides recommendations for remediation.

    What does OpenVAS stand for?

    OpenVAS stands for “Open Vulnerability Assessment Scanner”. Vulnerability assessment scanners enable cybersecurity and other tech professionals to identify and mitigate network security risks.

    How do you use OpenVAS?

    To use OpenVAS, first download and install the software on your system. With your OpenVAS download, you can launch a web interface and configure scans to run on your network or specific devices. You can customize the scans by selecting specific vulnerabilities to check for and then run the scans to identify any security issues. After the scans are complete, you can review the results and take action to address any vulnerabilities.

    How do you scan for a vulnerability using OpenVAS?

    To scan for vulnerabilities using OpenVAS, first create a new scan task by specifying the target IP address, port range, and other scan configurations. You can then start the scan and wait for the results. OpenVAS will generate a report detailing any vulnerabilities found, along with their severity level and recommended fixes. It is important to regularly scan for vulnerabilities to ensure the security of your system and prevent potential attacks.

    What is the difference between OpenVAS and Nessus?

    OpenVAS and Nessus are both vulnerability scanners used for network security testing, but they have some key differences. OpenVAS is an open-source software, while Nessus is a commercial product. OpenVAS has a smaller database of vulnerabilities compared to Nessus, but it is updated more frequently and has a community of contributors. Nessus offers more advanced features, such as compliance checks and integration with other security tools.

    1. Greenbone OpenVAS. Greenbone OpenVAS. Retrieved on June 8, 2023.

    2. Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers. (2023). U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved April 26, 2023.

    3. Security Control Assessor. National Initiative For Cybersecurity Careers And Studies. Retrieved April 26, 2023.

    4. Information Security Analysts. (2022). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved April 26, 2023.

    5. Cyber Instructor. National Initiative For Cybersecurity Careers And Studies. Retrieved April 26, 2023.