privilege escalation methods

Privilege Escalation Methods

Purpose

Provide comprehensive techniques for escalating privileges from a low-privileged user to root/administrator access on compromised Linux and Windows systems. Essential for penetration testing post-exploitation phase and red team operations.

Inputs/Prerequisites

• Initial low-privilege shell access on target system
• Kali Linux or penetration testing distribution
• Tools: Mimikatz, PowerView, PowerUpSQL, Responder, Impacket, Rubeus
• Understanding of Windows/Linux privilege models
• For AD attacks: Domain user credentials and network access to DC

Outputs/Deliverables

• Root or Administrator shell access
• Extracted credentials and hashes
• Persistent access mechanisms
• Domain compromise (for AD environments)

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Core Techniques

🧠 Knowledge Modules (Fractal Skills)

1. Linux Privilege Escalation

2. Windows Privilege Escalation

3. Active Directory Attacks

4. Credential Harvesting

5. Example 1: Linux Sudo to Root

6. Example 2: Windows Kerberoasting