Penetration Testing

Penetration Testing Report

Project Title: Network Security Assessment

Date: [Insert Date]

Executive Summary:

The purpose of this penetration testing exercise was to assess the security posture of the network infrastructure. The assessment involved conducting scans using Nmap and traceroute commands to identify hosts, services, and potential vulnerabilities.

Scope:

The assessment focused on the network with the IP range 192.168.10.0/24. Two primary objectives were defined: Network-wide scan to identify all hosts and services, and a targeted scan on a specific server (192.168.10.19) to assess Windows file sharing services.

Tools Used:

·      Nmap - A network scanning tool used for host discovery, service enumeration, and vulnerability scanning.

·      Traceroute - A network diagnostic tool used to display the route and measure transit delays of packets across an IP network.

Methodology:

·      Initial Network Scan:

o   Nmap command: nmap -sS -p- -oA network_scan 192.168.10.0/24

o   Objective: Identify all hosts and services within the network.

·      Targeted Server Scan:

o   Nmap command: nmap -p 135,139,445 -sV --timing sneaky 192.168.10.19

o   Objective: Assess Windows file sharing services on 192.168.10.19, including NetBIOS and SMB.

·      Traceroute:

o   Command: traceroute 192.168.10.19

o   Objective: Trace the route to 192.168.10.19 and measure transit delays.

Findings:

·      Network Scan:

o   Detected multiple hosts within the network range (192.168.10.0/24).

o   Identified various open ports and associated services.

·      Targeted Server Scan (192.168.10.19):

o   Discovered Windows file sharing services (NetBIOS, SMB) running on ports 135, 139, and 445.

o   Identified service versions.

o   Utilized a sneaky timing setting to evade intrusion detection.

Recommendations:

·      Patch Management: Ensure regular patching to mitigate known vulnerabilities.

·      Network Segmentation: Implement proper segmentation to limit the impact of breaches.

·      Intrusion Detection: Strengthen detection systems to respond to suspicious activities.

·      Access Control: Enforce strict access policies to restrict unauthorized access to sensitive services.

Conclusion:

The penetration testing exercise provided valuable insights into the network's security posture. By identifying vulnerabilities and potential weaknesses, proactive measures can enhance security and mitigate risks effectively.