- Lab
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Libraries: If you want this lab, consider one of these libraries.
- Security

Netcat for Cross-Platform File Transfer
In this lab, you’ll practice exploiting a vulnerable HFS service on a Windows server. When you’re finished, you’ll have experience using Netcat for cross-platform file transfer, exploit modification, and exploit execution in a real environment.

Lab Info
Table of Contents
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Challenge
Getting Started in the Lab Environment
Here are the initial instructions and explanation of the lab environment. Read this while your environment is busy creating itself from nothing. Yes, this violates physics; we know. How fun!
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Challenge
Scanning and Analyzing the Target Server
Your first goal is to assess the HTTP File Server network exposure using Nmap. You have to perform a scan for open ports and services, identifying any potential entry points for exploitation. Once you identify the HFS HTTP File Server port, then you have to attempt to access the file server to verify any restrictions and check for vulnerabilities.
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Challenge
Modifying and Transferring the Exploit
With a known exploit identified, you now have to modify the exploit to align with the lab environment and then use Netcat to transfer the exploit file from the Linux VM to the Windows server.
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Challenge
Executing the Exploit and Gaining Administrator Access
With the exploit file now on the HTTP File Server, you will log in as a normal user, and execute the exploit to test its impact. Upon successful execution, a reverse shell should connect back to the Linux VM, granting you administrative access to the Windows server.
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Challenge
The Last Challenge
Welcome to the final challenge! This is your last chance to experiment in the environment. Clicking Finish Lab will end this little world that flittered into existence just for you.
About the author
Real skill practice before real-world application
Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.
Learn by doing
Engage hands-on with the tools and technologies you’re learning. You pick the skill, we provide the credentials and environment.
Follow your guide
All labs have detailed instructions and objectives, guiding you through the learning process and ensuring you understand every step.
Turn time into mastery
On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you take time to practice. Hands-on labs set you up for success to make those skills stick.