WSDAPI can leak significant metadata that aids in lateral movement: and computer names. Device metadata such as printer models or scanner types. Network paths and file share locations. Known Vulnerabilities and Exploitation MS09-063: Memory Corruption (CVE-2009-2512)
But the HackTricks page had warned about a darker possibility. Sometimes, this port was tied to the "Network Discovery" feature, which utilized the and NBNS protocols. While this was technically a different vector, they often overlapped in misconfigurations.
When you map a network drive or add a network printer in Windows, the system frequently relies on this port to negotiate connections and query device capabilities. 2. Reconnaissance and Enumeration port 5357 hacktricks
An open 5357 often signals a Windows environment where "Network Discovery" is enabled for "Private" or "Domain" firewall profiles. ⚠️ Potential Vulnerabilities
: The most severe risk comes from the service's history. A critical vulnerability, documented in Microsoft Security Bulletin MS09-063 and assigned CVE-2009-2512 , was found in the way WSDAPI processed the headers of Web Services messages. This memory corruption flaw allowed a remote attacker on the same subnet to send a specially crafted packet to TCP ports 5357 or 5358 and execute arbitrary code, potentially taking full control of the system. It's crucial to note: Microsoft released a patch for this vulnerability over a decade ago. However, unpatched legacy systems, or those with custom configurations, can still be vulnerable, as highlighted in the next section. WSDAPI can leak significant metadata that aids in
is used by the Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI) , a Microsoft protocol for discovering and communicating with devices like printers and scanners over HTTP in local networks. PentestPad
curl -v http:// :5357/ -H "Host: stuff" -H "Range: bytes=0-18446744073709551615" Use code with caution. When you map a network drive or add
This is the most critical historic vulnerability associated with port 5357. Microsoft Security Bulletin MS09-063 - Critical
You can attempt directory busting using targeted wordlists, though WSD interactions generally rely on structured SOAP requests rather than static URL pathways. 3. Gathering Host Information
To protect systems from unauthorized enumeration and potential exploitation via Port 5357, implement the following defensive controls:
To help provide more specific guidance, are you looking to this port in a lab environment or remediate it on a live network? You can also specify the target operating system version to narrow down applicable vulnerabilities. Share public link