Benefits of penetration testing using Metasploit

Before we jump into an example penetration test, we must know why we should prefer Metasploit to manual exploitation techniques. Is this because of a hacker-like Terminal that gives us a pro look, or is there a different reason? Metasploit is the preferable choice compared to traditional manual techniques because of specific factors. We will discuss these in this section.

Open source

One of the top reasons why we should go with Metasploit Framework is because it is open source and actively developed. Various other expensive tools exist for carrying out penetration testing. However, Metasploit allows its users to access its source code and add their own custom modules. The Pro version of Metasploit is chargeable, but for the sake of learning, the Framework edition is mostly preferred.

Support for testing large networks and natural naming conventions

Using Metasploit is easy. However, here, ease of use refers to natural naming conventions for the commands. Metasploit offers excellent comfort while conducting a massive network penetration test. Consider a scenario where we need to test a network with 200 systems. Instead of checking each system one after the other, Metasploit allows us to examine the entire range automatically. Using parameters such as subnet and Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR) values, Metasploit tests all the systems to exploit the vulnerability, whereas using manual techniques, we might need to launch the exploits manually onto 200 systems. Therefore, Metasploit saves a significant amount of time and energy.

Smart payload generation and switching mechanism

Most importantly, switching between payloads in Metasploit is easy. Metasploit provides quick access to change payloads using the set payload command. Therefore, turning the Meterpreter or shell-based access into a more specific operation, such as adding a user and getting remote desktop access, becomes easy. Generating shellcode to use in manual exploits also becomes easy by using the msfvenom application from the command line, which also features encryption in the Metasploit 5.0 release.

Cleaner exits

Metasploit is also responsible for making a much cleaner exit from the systems it has compromised. A custom-coded exploit, on the other hand, can crash the system while exiting its operations. Making a clean exit is indeed an essential factor in cases where we know that the service will not restart immediately.

Let's consider a scenario where we have compromised a web server, and while we were making an exit, the exploited application crashed. The scheduled maintenance time for the server is left with 50 days' time on it. So, what do we do? Shall we wait for the next 50-odd days for the service to come up again so that we can exploit it again? Moreover, what if the service comes back after being patched? We would only end up kicking ourselves. This also shows a clear sign of poor penetration testing skills. Therefore, a better approach would be to use the Metasploit framework, which is known for making much cleaner exits, as well as offering tons of post-exploitation functions, such as persistence, which can help maintain permanent access to the server.