OSCP Enumeration Cheat Sheet

Enumeration is one of the most critical phases in any penetration testing or ethical hacking exercise. It involves gathering as much information as possible about the target system, laying the groundwork for further exploitation. For those preparing for the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification, mastering enumeration techniques is essential to identify vulnerabilities and potential attack vectors. This cheat sheet is designed to be your go-to resource for enumeration, organized to help you succeed in the OSCP exam and real-world engagements.

What Is Enumeration?

Enumeration is the process of actively gathering detailed information about a target system. It goes beyond passive reconnaissance by interacting directly with the target. The goal is to uncover usernames, hostnames, shares, services, operating systems, and other details that could lead to a successful compromise.

Why Enumeration Is Crucial for OSCP:

1. Discovery of Attack Vectors: Enumeration helps identify weaknesses in systems and services.
2. Preparation for Exploitation: Detailed knowledge about a target increases the chances of a successful exploit.
3. Pivoting and Privilege Escalation: Insights from enumeration can be used to move laterally or…