New 'Hackmap' Tool Aids Pentest and OSCP Note-Taking
A pentester has shared a graphing tool called Hackmap, designed specifically for penetration testing engagements and exams like the OSCP. The tool helps users map networks, track commands, and organize notes for reporting. It was highlighted as a useful resource for managing the complexity of practical cybersecurity exams.
- Hackmap is a free, open-source tool built with Python and Flask that runs locally on a penetration tester's machine. This local-first approach ensures that sensitive engagement data and notes are not exposed to the cloud. - The tool integrates an interactive drag-and-drop network graph, powered by Cytoscape.js, with a real-time shell command execution terminal. This allows a tester to visually map attack paths while simultaneously running and recording commands for each targeted host. - Effective note-taking is a frequently cited critical skill for success in the 24-hour OSCP exam, where candidates must document every step to write a detailed report. Tools that can streamline this process are considered highly valuable. - While many penetration testers use general-purpose note-taking applications like Obsidian, CherryTree, or OneNote, Hackmap is specifically designed for offensive security engagements. - Mind mapping tools are recognized for improving efficiency and coverage in security assessments by visually representing hierarchical application structures and testing workflows. Hackmap applies this concept directly to network penetration testing. - The OSCP exam requires candidates to attack a series of machines in a complex lab environment, making the ability to track relationships between hosts, document commands, and manage credentials essential for passing. - Key features of Hackmap include the ability to label connections between nodes (e.g., RDP, SMB, WinRM), mark hosts as "owned" with a visual indicator, and maintain a persistent command history for each target. - The creator developed Hackmap to address the challenge of visualizing attack paths and managing command history, which are common difficulties during complex penetration testing engagements.
