Port 5357 Hacktricks May 2026

Many devices (and even Windows hosts with sharing enabled) expose metadata without authentication.

Service: WSDAPI (Web Services for Devices) / HTTP
Commonly found on: Windows (Windows 7, 8, 10, Server editions)
Protocol: HTTP (often REST-like SOAP/XML services)

If you need specific commands, exploitation scenarios, or detailed enumeration steps for port 5357 as documented in HackTricks, I recommend checking the HackTricks website directly or searching within their content.

Port 5357 is a common sight during Windows penetration tests, often identified as Microsoft HTTPAPI httpd 2.0 or WSDAPI (Web Services for Devices API). While often overlooked, it serves as a critical discovery point for local network reconnaissance and legacy exploitation. Service Overview: WSDAPI

WSDAPI is Microsoft's implementation of the WS-Discovery protocol. It allows Windows machines to automatically discover and communicate with network-connected devices like printers, scanners, and file shares without manual configuration. Port 5357 (TCP): Used for HTTP-based communication. Port 5358 (TCP): Used for HTTPS-based communication. Port 3702 (UDP): Used for multicast discovery. Reconnaissance & Enumeration

When you encounter port 5357, the first step is to confirm the service and identify potential information leaks. 1. Nmap Service Detection

A standard version scan will often reveal the underlying HTTP server. nmap -sV -p 5357 Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard

Expected Output: 5357/tcp open http Microsoft HTTPAPI httpd 2.0 (SSDP/UPnP). 2. Information Disclosure

Port 5357 can leak metadata useful for fingerprinting the target.

Hostnames & Device Names: WSD often broadcasts the actual name of the computer or printer.

OS Fingerprinting: The specific response from Microsoft-HTTPAPI/2.0 can help narrow down Windows versions (commonly seen in Vista, Windows 7, and Server 2008). Vulnerabilities & Exploitation 1. Remote Code Execution (MS09-063 / CVE-2009-2512)

This is the most critical historic vulnerability associated with port 5357. Microsoft Security Bulletin MS09-063 - Critical

Port 5357 is typically associated with the Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI), a Microsoft implementation of the WS-Discovery protocol. It allows devices like printers and scanners to be automatically discovered on a local network. 

While HackTricks does not currently have a dedicated page for Port 5357, the port is an extension of standard Windows network discovery services. Here is the technical breakdown for security assessment and enumeration.  Port 5357 Service Details  Protocol: TCP Service: Web Services for Devices (WSD) / wsdapi

Process: Often identified as mshttpapi or part of the Windows HTTP Server Stack.

Function: It provides an HTTP-based discovery mechanism. When accessed via a browser, it may return a "404 Not Found" or a simple status message if the service is active but not configured to serve a root page.  Enumeration & Pentesting Approach 

If you encounter Port 5357 during a scan, you can use these methods to gather more information: 

Banner Grabbing & Nmap Scanning:Identify the specific version of the HTTP server running on the port. nmap -sV -p 5357 Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard

Information Leakage Check: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

Cross-Referencing WS-Discovery (UDP 3702):Since 5357 is the HTTP unicast part of WSD, it is often paired with UDP port 3702, which handles multicast discovery. Pentesting the UDP discovery service can often provide more detailed device information than the TCP port alone.  Vulnerability Context  port 5357 hacktricks

System Identification: If this port is open, it strongly indicates the target is a Windows-based system (Vista or later) with network discovery enabled.

Attack Surface: While there are no widespread "one-click" exploits for Port 5357 itself, it increases the target's attack surface by confirming the operating system and potentially leaking internal metadata about connected hardware.

Remediation: If network discovery is not required, this service can be disabled by turning off "Network Discovery" in the Windows Sharing settings or blocking the port via Windows Defender Firewall.  How to block TCP port 445 in Windows - ManageEngine

Step 1: Open the Control Panel Step 2: Click on Windows Firewall/ Windows Defender firewall Step 3: Navigate to advanced settings. ManageEngine Penetration Testing: Re: Port 5357 -- Vista SP1 ???

Port 5357 is used by the Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI), a Microsoft implementation of the WS-Discovery protocol. It allows Windows systems to automatically discover and communicate with network devices like printers, scanners, and cameras over HTTP. Service Summary Service Name: wsdapi Common Banner: Microsoft-HTTPAPI/2.0 Protocol: HTTP over TCP (Port 5357) or HTTPS (Port 5358).

Discovery Mechanism: Often works in tandem with UDP Port 3702 (multicast) for initial discovery before moving to TCP 5357 for communication. Security Risks & Enumeration

While HackTricks does not currently have a dedicated page for "Port 5357," it appears in general Windows enumeration checklists and involves the following risks:

Information Disclosure: WSD can leak metadata including hostnames, device models (e.g., printer types), network paths, and unique device identifiers (GUIDs).

Legacy Remote Code Execution (RCE): A critical vulnerability (MS09-063 / CVE-2009-2512) allowed unauthenticated RCE via specially crafted WSD headers on Windows Vista and Server 2008.

Fingerprinting: The Microsoft-HTTPAPI/2.0 banner confirms a Windows-based web service is running, which helps attackers identify the target OS.

Lateral Movement: Exposed printer or scanner interfaces can sometimes be accessed without authentication, potentially allowing job manipulation or further reconnaissance within a local network. Mitigation Additional WS-Discovery Functionality - Win32 apps

Port 5357 is used by Microsoft's Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI) for local network discovery of devices like printers, and it is frequently targeted in penetration testing to gather host metadata and network information. Although not covered by HackTricks, this service often leaks information and can be mitigated by disabling Network Discovery in the Windows Control Panel or configuring firewall rules. More detailed port analysis can be found on PentestPad PentestPad

Port 5357 – WSDAPI (Web Services for Devices) - PentestPad

Uncovering the Secrets of Port 5357: A Comprehensive Guide to Hacktricks

Port 5357, a seemingly innocuous port number, has garnered significant attention in the realm of cybersecurity and hacking. As a vital component of the Windows operating system, this port is often exploited by hackers and penetration testers alike to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. In this article, we'll delve into the world of port 5357, exploring its significance, associated risks, and most importantly, how to leverage Hacktricks to navigate this complex landscape.

What is Port 5357?

Port 5357 is a UDP (User Datagram Protocol) port used by the Windows operating system for various purposes, including:

Why is Port 5357 a Target for Hackers?

The use of port 5357 for remote management and execution of commands makes it an attractive target for hackers. By exploiting vulnerabilities or misconfigurations associated with this port, attackers can gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, execute malicious code, or even take control of the targeted system. Many devices (and even Windows hosts with sharing

Hacktricks and Port 5357

Hacktricks, a popular online platform, provides a comprehensive repository of hacking techniques, tools, and resources. When it comes to port 5357, Hacktricks offers a wealth of information on how to exploit and defend against attacks targeting this port.

Enumerating Port 5357 using Hacktricks

To begin exploring port 5357 using Hacktricks, follow these steps:

Exploiting Port 5357 using Hacktricks

Once you've enumerated the target system and identified potential vulnerabilities, it's time to exploit port 5357. Hacktricks provides guidance on various exploitation techniques, including:

Defending against Port 5357 Attacks

To protect your systems against port 5357 attacks, follow these best practices:

Conclusion

Port 5357, a commonly overlooked port, has become a prime target for hackers and penetration testers. By understanding the significance of this port and leveraging Hacktricks, you can stay one step ahead of potential threats. Remember to always follow best practices for securing your systems and stay up-to-date with the latest hacking techniques and defense strategies.

Additional Resources

FAQs

By following this guide and staying informed, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the complex world of port 5357 and cybersecurity. Happy hacking!

You're looking for information related to Port 5357 and HackTricks. Here's some generated content:

What is Port 5357?

Port 5357 is a UDP port used by the Windows operating system for the Windows Remote Management (WinRM) service, also known as the Microsoft Management Console (MMC) or Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI). It's also used for the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and other management applications.

HackTricks: Port 5357

In the context of HackTricks, a popular platform for learning penetration testing and cybersecurity, Port 5357 is an interesting target for exploration.

Information Gathering

When exploring Port 5357 during a penetration test or vulnerability assessment, you may be able to gather information about the target system, such as:

Potential Vulnerabilities

Some potential vulnerabilities associated with Port 5357 include:

Exploitation Techniques

Some possible exploitation techniques for Port 5357 include:

HackTricks Resources

For more information on Port 5357 and related topics, check out these HackTricks resources:

Conclusion

Port 5357 is an interesting target for exploration during penetration tests and vulnerability assessments. Understanding the services running on this port and potential vulnerabilities can help you better assess and secure your systems. For more information, be sure to check out the HackTricks resources listed above.

Port 5357: WSDAPI Enumeration and Penetration Testing Port 5357 (TCP) is primarily used by the Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI), Microsoft's implementation of the WS-Discovery protocol. It allows Windows systems to automatically discover and communicate with network-connected devices like printers, scanners, and file shares over HTTP. In a penetration testing context, this port is often a target for fingerprinting Windows environments or exploiting legacy memory corruption vulnerabilities. Service Overview

WSDAPI facilitates a "plug-and-play" network experience. It typically utilizes: TCP Port 5357: HTTP-based communication. TCP Port 5358: HTTPS-based communication (secure channel). UDP Port 3702: Multicast discovery (WS-Discovery).

The service is generally active on Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 10, and Windows Server 2008 and later. Enumeration and Information Gathering

During a network assessment, port 5357 is highly useful for fingerprinting the target system. 1. Nmap Scanning

You can use Nmap to identify the service and its version. Since it runs over HTTP, standard service discovery flags are effective: nmap -p 5357 -sV Use code with caution.

Nmap typically identifies this as http or microsoft-httpapi. If the port appears open on every host in a subnet, it may be due to network-level forwarding or a firewall configuration rather than the service actually being active on every individual host. 2. Service Metadata

WSDAPI can leak significant metadata that aids in lateral movement: Hostnames 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)

One of the most critical vulnerabilities associated with WSDAPI is a stack-based buffer overflow.

Port 5357 – WSDAPI (Web Services for Devices) - PentestPad

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. Service: WSDAPI (Web Services for Devices) / HTTP

Let's steer towards the information related to HackTricks, which seems to be what you're looking for:

Port 5357 is used by WSDAPI for device discovery and control (e.g., network scanners, printers, media servers). It's part of WSD (Web Services on Devices) — Microsoft's implementation of devices profile for web services (DPWS).