DEMONSTRATE EXPLOIT AIMING AT WINDOWS (ACTIVE DIRECTORY) AND WEB APPLICATION

Abstract

In today's digital landscape, ensuring the security of critical systems and applica- tions was paramount. Active Directory (AD) and web applications represented two key components within organizational infrastructure, often serving as prime targets for cyberattacks. This presented a comparative analysis of penetration testing methodologies employed to assess the security posture of both AD envi- ronments and web applications. Active Directory, as a centralized authentication and authorization service, formed the backbone of many enterprise networks. Penetration testing of AD en- vironments involved comprehensive assessment techniques aimed at identifying vulnerabilities such as misconfigurations, weak authentication mechanisms, and privilege escalation paths. Techniques such as reconnaissance, credential har- vesting, and exploitation of misconfigurations were commonly employed in AD penetration testing to simulate real-world attack scenarios. Web applications, on the other hand, presented a diverse array of attack vectors due to their intricate nature and reliance on various technologies. Penetration testing of web applications encompassed a thorough examination of input valida- tion mechanisms, session management, authentication mechanisms, and access controls. Techniques such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and server-side request forgery (SSRF) were frequently utilized to uncover vulnerabil- ities that could potentially compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availabil- ity of sensitive data. This delved into the methodologies, tools, and best practices associated with conducting penetration testing exercises on both Active Directory environments and web applications. Furthermore, it explored the nuances and challenges in- herent in each domain, highlighting the importance of adopting a holistic ap- proach to security testing. By synthesizing insights from AD and web application penetration testing, organizations could fortify their defenses against evolving cyber threats, ultimately bolstering their resilience in the face of adversarial activi- ties.