OpenVAS – finding network vulnerabilities

In this recipe, we will use OpenVAS to scan for network vulnerabilities. These are vulnerabilities specific to devices on our targeted network.

Getting ready

To complete this recipe, you will need a virtual machine(s) to test against:

• Windows XP

• Windows 7

• Metasploitable 2.0

• Any other flavor of Linux

How to do it...

Let's begin the process of finding network vulnerabilities with OpenVAS by opening the Mozilla Firefox web browser:

1. Go to http://127.0.0.1:9392 and log in to OpenVAS.

2. Go to Configuration | Scan Configs:

   

3. Enter the name of the scan. For this recipe, we will use Network Vulnerabilities.

4. For the base, select the Empty, static and fast option. This option allows us to start from scratch and create our own configuration.

5. Click on Create Scan Config:

   

6. We now want to edit our scan config. Click on the wrench icon next to Network Vulnerabilities.

7. Press Ctrl + F and type Network in the find bar.

8. For each family found, put a check mark in the Select all NVT's box...