Fortifying Your Network with OpenVAS: A Step-by-Step Guide

OpenVAS is a powerful vulnerability scanner that provides comprehensive security assessments. This article guides you through deploying OpenVAS on Linux, ensuring automatic updates for vulnerability feeds, and configuring email alerts for timely notifications.  

Deploying OpenVAS on Linux

1. System Requirements: Ensure your Linux system meets the minimum requirements for OpenVAS installation.

2. Installation: Download and install the OpenVAS packages from the official repository or build from source.

3. Database Configuration: Set up the required database for OpenVAS (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL).

4. Initial Setup: Configure OpenVAS settings, including network interfaces, scan engines, and users.

Automating Vulnerability Feed Updates

Regular updates of vulnerability feeds are crucial for accurate and up-to-date scanning results.

• Configure Feed Sources: Add feed sources like NVTs, SCAP, and CERT to your OpenVAS instance.

• Schedule Updates: Set up automatic feed updates using cron jobs or systemd timers.

• Monitor Feed Status: Regularly check the status of feed updates to ensure data integrity.

Configuring Email Alerts

Real-time notifications are essential for prompt response to vulnerabilities.

• Email Server Configuration: Set up an email server (e.g., Postfix, Sendmail) or use a third-party email service.

• OpenVAS Alert Configuration: Configure OpenVAS to send email alerts for specific events (e.g., new vulnerabilities, scan results).

• Alert Customization: Customize email content to include relevant information about the vulnerability.

Additional Considerations

• User Management: Create appropriate user roles and permissions to control access to OpenVAS.

• Scanning Schedules: Define scan schedules based on your organization's needs.

• Vulnerability Remediation: Prioritize vulnerabilities based on risk and severity.

• False Positive Management: Implement mechanisms to reduce false positive alerts.

• Integration: Integrate OpenVAS with other security tools for comprehensive threat management.

By following these steps and best practices, you can effectively deploy OpenVAS to enhance your organization's security posture. Remember, vulnerability management is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring and adaptation.