Windows Reverse Shell Anatomy 🧠

Windows Reverse Shell Anatomy 🧠
What it is: 🔎
A reverse shell on Windows is code that dials out to a remote listener over TCP and then launches cmd.exe, wiring its stdin/stdout/stderr to that socket so the remote side controls the shell.

How it works (high level) 🛠️
• The shellcode “PEB-walks” via the TEB → PEB → Ldr lists to find loaded modules without using import tables.
• It resolves key WinAPI calls (e.g., LoadLibraryA, WSAStartup, WSASocket, connect, CreateProcessA) by scanning exports/hashing names.
• After connect(), it starts cmd.exe and redirects I/O to the socket — that’s your interactive session.

Why it matters for defenders 🛡️
• Outbound C2 that blends with normal traffic.
• API hashing and no static imports reduce signature hits.
• Telltales: unusual processes spawning cmd.exe, sockets tied to cmd.exe, sudden WSAStartup from non-network apps.



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