Which tool is commonly used for vulnerability assessment?

Nessus is widely recognized as a leading tool for vulnerability assessment. It is designed to scan networks and systems to identify vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and compliance issues. By utilizing a comprehensive database of known vulnerabilities, Nessus can effectively assess various platforms and provide actionable insights into security weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Its user-friendly interface and robust reporting capabilities make it an invaluable resource for security professionals aiming to enhance their organization's security posture through thorough vulnerability assessments.

In contrast, Wireshark is primarily a network protocol analyzer useful for monitoring and capturing network traffic but not specifically designed for assessing vulnerabilities. Metasploit is an exploitation framework that allows security professionals to test systems for vulnerabilities but is typically used after the vulnerability assessment phase to exploit identified weaknesses. Burp Suite focuses on web application security and provides tools for testing and attacking web applications rather than conducting generalized vulnerability assessments. This context helps clarify why Nessus is the tool most aligned with vulnerability assessment objectives.