Metasploit Pivoting: Traversing Internal Networks

Pivoting is the technique of using a compromised system as a proxy or bridge to access other isolated networks or systems that are not directly accessible to the attacker.

The Need for Pivoting

During an assessment, you may compromise a public-facing web server that has a secondary network interface connected to an internal LAN.

To attack the internal LAN, you must route your traffic through the compromised web server.

Setting up the Pivot in Metasploit

Once a Meterpreter session is established, you can use the 'autoroute' script to route traffic for the target subnet through the session.

This allows other Metasploit modules to transparently attack the internal network.

Port Forwarding

If you need to use external tools (like Nmap or web browsers), port forwarding can be used.

Meterpreter allows you to bind a local port on your machine to a remote port on an internal target via the compromised host.

Preparing for the Exam

Understanding pivoting and lateral movement is critical for the exploitation phase of PenTest+.

Using high-quality practice exams like Cert Sensei is the best way to study and validate your tactical knowledge.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions