Port 5357 Hacktricks [verified]
While HackTricks does not currently have a dedicated standalone page for Port 5357, this port is essentially a Web Service (HTTP)
This article is part of the HackTricks-style knowledge base. Always perform attacks only on systems you own or have explicit permission to test.
"Recommendation: Block Port 5357/tcp on the perimeter firewall immediately. The exposed WS-Discovery service allowed for the enumeration of the primary Domain Controller hostname ('LEDGER-DC01') and internal network topology without authentication."
Interacting directly with the root directory of port 5357 via web browsers or automated scripts like curl usually yields a default HTTP Error 503: The service is unavailable response. This is intended behavior; the endpoint expects explicit XML queries rather than standard browser requests.
Then convince a user on the target host to visit an attacker-controlled SMB share or use a tool like responder + pxe to force a connection to http://target:5357/wsd . port 5357 hacktricks
When you encounter port 5357 open during an internal engagement, your primary goal is to gather information about the host, operating system version, and device type. Nmap Scanning
For a penetration tester, any open port represents a potential attack surface, and port 5357 is no different.
:Port 5357 has been noted as a potential source for information leaks. Use tools like curl to check for XML responses that might reveal device names, manufacturer details, or network configurations. curl -v http:// : 5357 / Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard
An initial Nmap scan will reveal the state of the port and identify the underlying Microsoft HTTP API version. nmap -p 5357 -sV -sC Use code with caution. While HackTricks does not currently have a dedicated
Additionally, it uses for service discovery via multicasting.
Some devices act as WSD proxies. If you can register a malicious device metadata pointing to 169.254.169.254 (AWS metadata), you can achieve SSRF.
The fluorescent lights of the server room hummed in a frequency that always gave Elena a mild headache. She cracked her knuckles, the sound sharp in the quiet room. On her screen, the target was a mid-sized accounting firm—let's call them "Ledger & Sons"—who had failed their annual penetration test.
If you find port 5357 open during a scan, it is rarely a "silver bullet" for immediate access. However, it is a high-value source for in an Active Directory environment. Use tools like nmap with HTTP-enumeration scripts to see what information the device is broadcasting. If you are hardening a system, this port should generally be blocked or restricted to trusted local segments. Penetration Testing: Re: Port 5357 -- Vista SP1 ??? The exposed WS-Discovery service allowed for the enumeration
Ensure the Windows Firewall is active to restrict connections to the local network (LAN) only, preventing exposure to wider network segments. Patch Management:
the internal network to identify specific Windows versions or hardware models. Vulnerability Surface
You're likely referring to the Port 5357, which is associated with the Windows SMB (Server Message Block) protocol, specifically for the "Key Management Service" (KMS) or Windows Activation. However, another notable usage of port 5357 is related to the SSDP (Simple Service Discovery Protocol) and UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) protocols, often exploited in IoT and network-related attacks.
The response came back instantly. The server provided a list of workgroups, including one named LEDGER-ADMIN , and detailed endpoint references for network shares that hadn't been mapped during the initial scan.