OSCP Exam Questions I Keep Hearing (Over and Over)

Listen to this Post

The OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) exam is a challenging yet rewarding certification for penetration testers. Many students often ask similar questions regarding exam preparation, methodology, and strategies. Below, we address five recurring questions based on real exam experiences while adhering to OffSec guidelines.

👉 Original https://lnkd.in/gyazHy6q

You Should Know:

  1. “What’s the Best Strategy for the OSCP Exam?”

– Enumeration is key: Use tools like nmap, gobuster, and `nikto` extensively.
– Document everything: Keep detailed notes with commands and findings.
– Prioritize targets: Focus on low-hanging fruit first.

Practice Commands:

nmap -sV -sC -p- <target_IP> -oN scan_results.txt 
gobuster dir -u http://<target_IP> -w /usr/share/wordlists/dirb/common.txt 

2. “How Do I Handle Buffer Overflows?”

  • Practice on VulnServer or SLMail (pre-OSCP practice machines).
  • Use `msf-pattern_create` and `msf-pattern_offset` for EIP control.

Example Exploit Steps:

/usr/share/metasploit-framework/tools/exploit/pattern_create.rb -l 500 
/usr/share/metasploit-framework/tools/exploit/pattern_offset.rb -q <EIP_value> 

3. “Are Metasploit and Automated Tools Allowed?”

  • Limited usage: Only one Metasploit module per exam (except for buffer overflows).
  • Alternatives: Learn manual exploitation with netcat, python exploits, and manual SQLi.

Manual SQLi Example:

' OR 1=1 -- - 

4. “How Important is Privilege Escalation?”

  • Critical: Most exam points come from privilege escalation.
  • Common Techniques:
  • Kernel exploits (dirtycow, CVE-2021-4034).
  • Misconfigured sudo permissions (sudo -l).

Linux PrivEsc Check:

find / -perm -4000 -type f 2>/dev/null 
sudo -l 

5. “What If I Get Stuck?”

  • Try Harder: OffSec’s motto emphasizes persistence.
  • Take breaks: A fresh mind spots overlooked details.
  • Review notes: Re-examine previous scans for missed clues.

What Undercode Say:

The OSCP exam tests persistence, enumeration, and adaptability. Mastering manual exploitation, privilege escalation, and thorough documentation is crucial. Below are additional Linux and Windows commands to reinforce your skills:

Linux:

 Check SUID binaries 
find / -perm -u=s -type f 2>/dev/null

Check cron jobs 
cat /etc/crontab 
ls -la /etc/cron

Exploit PATH hijacking 
echo "/bin/bash" > /tmp/ls 
chmod +x /tmp/ls 
export PATH=/tmp:$PATH 

Windows:

 Check installed patches 
wmic qfe list

Check services with weak permissions 
accesschk.exe -uwcqv "Authenticated Users"  /accepteula

Dump SAM hashes 
reg save HKLM\SAM sam.save 
reg save HKLM\SYSTEM system.save 

Expected Output:

A structured, command-driven approach to OSCP exam challenges, ensuring readiness through hands-on practice and strategic enumeration.

References:

Reported By: Activity 7315567705707761665 – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅

Join Our Cyber World:

💬 Whatsapp | 💬 TelegramFeatured Image