ctf-pentesting

Guide penetration testing and CTF workflows across recon, enumeration, exploitation, and privilege escalation.

11|1|Updated Feb 9, 2026

Search Tags:#reconnaissance #exploitation #privilege escalation #pentesting #ctf #enumeration

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/mindcockpit-ai/cognitive-core --skill ctf-pentesting

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ctf-pentesting
Source: https://github.com/mindcockpit-ai/cognitive-core/tree/main/core/skills/ctf-pentesting
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/mindcockpit-ai/cognitive-core --skill ctf-pentesting

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires nmap, curl, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Penetration testing and CTF challenges require a disciplined, repeatable methodology; without it learners waste time and miss critical steps.

Core Features & Use Cases

Structured Kill Chain: Guides users through Recon, Enumeration, Exploitation, Post‑Exploitation, and Privilege Escalation phases.
Tool Integration: Provides ready‑to‑run scripts and reference tables for nmap, gobuster, curl, and common attack vectors.
Learning Loop: Encourages documentation of attack paths, new techniques, and developer lessons after each challenge.

Quick Start

Run the ctf-pentesting skill with the target IP to receive a complete step‑by‑step attack plan.

Frequently Asked Questions about ctf-pentesting

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I approach a CTF challenge systematically to avoid missing critical steps?▼

A structured pentesting playbook guides you through Recon, Enumeration, Exploitation, Post‑Exploitation, and Privilege Escalation phases. This kill chain methodology ensures repeatable workflows for platforms like TryHackMe and HackTheBox.

What is the best way to run nmap and curl during CTF enumeration?▼

The best way to run nmap and curl for CTF enumeration is using ready‑to‑run scripts and reference tables provided by a structured playbook. These integrate standard security tools directly into your attack path for efficient target mapping.

Do I need a Unix-like shell environment to use this pentesting methodology?▼

Yes, you need a Unix-like shell environment to execute the required security tools like nmap, curl, and gobuster. Access to this standard environment is necessary to run the scripts and commands the methodology generates.

How does privilege escalation fit into the overall penetration testing workflow?▼

Privilege escalation is the final phase of the structured kill chain, following Post‑Exploitation. It involves specific techniques to gain higher-level access after initial exploitation, completing the systematic penetration testing workflow.

Can I use this structured methodology for platforms other than HackTheBox and TryHackMe?▼

Yes, you can use this structured pentesting methodology for platforms other than HackTheBox and TryHackMe. The systematic approach to recon, enumeration, and exploitation is applicable to any standard penetration testing or CTF challenge environment.

What should I do after exploiting a target in a CTF challenge?▼

After exploiting a target in a CTF challenge, you should proceed to Post‑Exploitation and Privilege Escalation. The methodology encourages documenting attack paths, new techniques, and developer lessons to reinforce your learning loop.