What is the command to list payloads in Metasploit?

Answered by John Hunt

In Metasploit, there is a command called `loadpath` that allows you to list the available payloads. This command is quite handy when you are exploring the various options and capabilities of Metasploit. Let’s dive into the details of how to use this command and what it can help you accomplish.

The `loadpath` command is used to display the paths where Metasploit loads its modules from. By default, Metasploit loads modules from multiple directories, including its own framework and user-defined locations. These directories contain different types of modules, including exploits, payloads, auxiliary modules, and post-exploitation modules.

To list the payloads specifically, you can use the `loadpath` command with the `-p` option, which filters the output to only display the payload paths. This command provides you with a comprehensive list of all the available payloads in Metasploit.

Here is an example of how to use the `loadpath` command to list payloads:

“`
Msf5 > loadpath -p
“`

Upon executing this command, you will see a list of paths where Metasploit loads its payloads from. Each path corresponds to a different directory where different payloads are stored. These payloads can be categorized based on their functionalities, such as reverse shells, meterpreter payloads, shellcode loaders, and more.

It’s important to note that the list of payloads may vary depending on the version of Metasploit you are using and the modules you have installed. Metasploit is an actively maintained framework with regular updates and additions to its module library. Therefore, it is highly recommended to keep your Metasploit installation up to date to access the latest payloads and exploit capabilities.

Listing payloads using the `loadpath` command can be particularly useful when you are researching or planning an attack. It allows you to quickly identify the payload options available to you, which is essential for selecting the most appropriate payload for a given exploit or target system.

Furthermore, the `loadpath` command also provides insights into the structure and organization of Metasploit’s module directories. This information can be valuable when you want to customize or extend Metasploit by adding your own modules or integrating external modules into the framework.

The `loadpath` command in Metasploit is a powerful tool for listing the available payloads. It helps you explore the various payload options, understand Metasploit’s module structure, and make informed decisions when planning and executing exploits. So, go ahead and use this command to uncover the vast array of payloads at your disposal in the world of Metasploit.