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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.

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Lab Info
Level
Beginner
Last updated
Aug 05, 2025
Duration
1h 0m

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Table of Contents
  1. 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!

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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

Sahil Gupta is highly skilled in Product Security, specializing in DevSecOps and Application Security. They are passionate about enhancing security posture & delivering robust and secure solutions.

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