Metasploit Framework

What is Metasploit Framework?

Metasploit Framework is a modular exploitation and post-exploitation platform used to validate vulnerabilities in authorized labs.

Search modules, configure payloads, and demonstrate impact on intentionally vulnerable VMs — never on unauthorized systems.

Official website: Metasploit Framework · Documentation

When do you use it?

• Confirm a known CVE on Metasploitable / lab VM after scanning.
• Learn module options (RHOSTS, LHOST, payloads) safely.

When not to use it

• Unauthorized exploitation is illegal.
• Do not use as a first step before enumeration and scope confirmation.

Who uses it?

• Penetration testers
• Red teamers (authorized only)

How do you use it? (typical flow)

1. Install Metasploit Framework using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
2. Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
3. Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
4. Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
5. Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).

Help & manual (like man / --help)

Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.

1. 1. Console help

   help

   Inside msfconsole.

2. 2. Module info

   info

   After use <module>.

3. 3. Docs

   https://docs.metasploit.com/

   Official documentation.

1. Installation

2. Basic commands

1. 1. Start

   msfconsole -q

   Quiet start.

2. 2. Search

   search eternalblue

   Find modules by keyword.

3. 3. Use module

   use exploit/…

   Then show options / set RHOSTS.

Options / flags

5. Useful features

• search/use/info
• Setting RHOSTS & options
• Auxiliary modules
• Meterpreter concepts

6. Practical examples

1. Example 1: Start

   msfconsole -q

   Quiet start.

2. Example 2: Search

   search eternalblue

   Find modules by keyword.

3. Example 3: Use module

   use exploit/…

   Then show options / set RHOSTS.

7. Important notes

• Metasploit Framework is used legitimately by security teams for authorized testing, defense validation and education.
• Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
• Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.