Web Application Enumeration
Web Application Enumeration
Web applications present rich attack surfaces requiring specialized enumeration techniques. Directory and file brute-forcing using tools like Gobuster, Dirb, or Feroxbuster reveals hidden functionality, backup files, and administrative interfaces. Custom wordlists targeting specific technologies or industries improve discovery rates beyond generic lists. Understanding web server behaviors helps interpret results and identify false positives.
Technology stack identification shapes subsequent attack strategies. Wappalyzer, WhatWeb, and manual analysis reveal frameworks, content management systems, and supporting technologies. Version information guides exploit research while technology understanding enables targeted attacks. OSCP web challenges often involve older versions of popular applications, making accurate version identification critical for finding applicable exploits.
Parameter discovery extends enumeration beyond visible functionality. Tools like Arjun and ParamSpider identify hidden parameters accepting user input. Manual techniques including analyzing JavaScript files, intercepting API calls, and fuzzing common parameter names complement automated approaches. Hidden parameters frequently contain vulnerabilities missed by surface-level testing.
Virtual host enumeration reveals additional attack surfaces on shared hosting environments. Gobuster's vhost mode, wfuzz, or custom scripts discover virtual hosts beyond main domains. Development versions, administrative interfaces, and forgotten applications often reside on virtual hosts with weaker security. This technique proves particularly valuable in OSCP labs where multiple applications share infrastructure.