Nessus vs Leviathan

The vulnerability scanner that makes you feel both secure and slightly paranoid about your entire network meets nsa's digital wrecking ball. Here's our take.

Nessus

Nice Pick

The vulnerability scanner that makes you feel both secure and slightly paranoid about your entire network.

Pros

• Extensive vulnerability database with frequent updates
• Detailed reports with actionable remediation steps
• Supports compliance scanning for standards like PCI DSS and HIPAA

Cons

• Can be resource-intensive and slow on large networks
• Licensing costs add up quickly for enterprise use

Leviathan

NSA's digital wrecking ball. Because sometimes you need to break things to see if they're strong enough.

Pros

• Automates complex penetration testing workflows with NSA-grade techniques
• Excellent for red team exercises to simulate real-world adversary attacks
• Integrates reconnaissance, exploitation, and post-exploitation in one framework

Cons

• Steep learning curve due to advanced features and military-grade complexity
• Requires deep cybersecurity knowledge to use effectively and ethically

The Verdict

Use Nessus if: You want extensive vulnerability database with frequent updates and can live with can be resource-intensive and slow on large networks.

Use Leviathan if: You prioritize automates complex penetration testing workflows with nsa-grade techniques over what Nessus offers.

The Bottom Line

Nessus wins

The vulnerability scanner that makes you feel both secure and slightly paranoid about your entire network.