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Nessus

Interact with the Nessus API

Actions17

Overview

This node integrates with the Nessus vulnerability scanner API, allowing users to manage and control scans programmatically within n8n workflows. Specifically, the "Scan" resource with the "Stop" operation enables users to stop a running scan by specifying its name or ID. This is useful in scenarios where a scan needs to be halted prematurely due to changing priorities, discovered issues, or resource constraints.

Practical examples include:

  • Automatically stopping a scan if certain conditions are met elsewhere in the workflow.
  • Providing manual control over active scans via an automation interface.
  • Integrating scan management into broader security orchestration processes.

Properties

Name Meaning
Scan Name or ID Select the scan to operate on. You can choose from a list of existing scans or specify an ID using an expression.

Output

The node outputs a JSON object representing the response from the Nessus API after attempting to stop the specified scan. This typically includes status information about the scan and confirmation that the stop request was accepted or processed.

No binary data output is produced by this operation.

Example output structure (simplified):

{
  "status": "stopped",
  "scanId": 12345,
  "message": "Scan stopped successfully"
}

Dependencies

  • Requires an active connection to the Nessus API.
  • Needs an API authentication credential configured in n8n to authorize requests.
  • The node depends on the bundled NessusApi helper class for making API calls.

Troubleshooting

  • Common Issues:

    • Specifying an invalid or non-existent scan ID will cause errors.
    • Attempting to stop a scan that is not currently running may result in an error or no action.
    • Network or authentication failures can prevent communication with the Nessus API.

  • Error Messages:

    • Errors thrown by the node include messages from the Nessus API or network layer.
    • If the node fails to load the list of scans for selection, it will report a failure to load scans.
    • To resolve errors, verify the scan ID, ensure the scan is running, and confirm that the API credentials are valid and have sufficient permissions.

Links and References

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