up:: [[Hacking Toolkit]] # Metasploit Metasploit is a powerful open-source framework used for developing, testing, and executing exploits. It also aids in security research and [[penetration testing]] by providing users with the tools to discover vulnerabilities, write security tools and exploits, and execute penetration tests. ## How It Works Metasploit works by allowing the user to gather information and discover vulnerabilities in networks or systems, develop and execute code against a remote target machine, and elevate privileges. It primarily operates through modules that include exploits, payloads, scanners, and various utility scripts. 1. **Exploit Modules:** These are pieces of code that use vulnerabilities to control a system. 2. **Payload Modules:** Code that runs on a system after an exploit module has successfully granted access. 3. **Auxiliary Modules:** Provide supporting functions to the other modules, such as scanning and fuzzing. 4. **Post-Exploitation Modules:** Used after gaining access to dive deeper into a target’s system. ## Key Features - **Comprehensive Exploit Database:** Contains a wide range of ready-to-use exploits for various platforms and applications. - **Payload Creation:** Allows users to create custom payloads that connect back to the attacker, facilitating further exploration or data extraction. - **Encoders:** Helps in encoding payloads to evade detection by antivirus software. - **Meterpreter:** A powerful Metasploit payload that provides an interactive shell with extensive control over the system, including file system access, webcam and mic access, and confidential data extraction. ## Advantages - **Versatility:** Supports various operating systems including Windows, Mac, Linux, and major Unix variants. - **User-Friendly Interface:** Offers both a command-line interface and a graphical user interface called Armitage, making it accessible to beginners and advanced users alike. - **Extensible Framework:** Allows for easy integration and extension with additional custom modules written in Ruby. - **Community Support:** Benefits from a large community of developers and cybersecurity professionals who contribute to its extensive module library. ## Documentation and Tutorials - **Official Documentation:** The [Metasploit Documentation](https://docs.rapid7.com/metasploit/) provides comprehensive guides on installation, module descriptions, usage examples, and development. - **Tutorial References:** - [Offensive Security’s Metasploit Unleashed](https://www.offensive-security.com/metasploit-unleashed/) - [Rapid7's Official Metasploit Tutorials](https://www.rapid7.com/blog/post/2016/07/14/metasploit-tutorials/) - YouTube channels like Hak5 and SecurityFWD offer practical video tutorials demonstrating Metasploit operations. ## Related Cybersecurity Policies - **NIST Special Publications (SP):** Guidelines such as [[NIST Special Publication 800-115|NIST SP 800-115]], "Technical Guide to Information Security Testing and Assessment," recommend tools like Metasploit for vulnerability scanning and [[penetration testing]] in the context of managing [[network security]]. - **[[ISOIEC 27001|ISO/IEC 27001]]:** While not specific to Metasploit, it outlines best practices for information security management systems that include regular security assessments, for which Metasploit can be a key tool. ## Current Status Metasploit continues to evolve, adding new exploits and features that keep pace with the latest vulnerabilities and security technologies. It remains one of the most popular tools for [[penetration testing]] and [[ethical hacking]]. ## Revision History - **2024-04-23:** Entry created.