enum4linux: Windows/Samba enumeration

enum4linux: Windows and Samba enumeration

A pragmatic tool to gather information from Windows and Samba hosts. This guide focuses on practical usage, common traps, and concrete examples.

Quick intuition

  • enum4linux tries multiple methods to pull information from a target: user lists, shares, OS info, and more.
  • It supports anonymous scans and authenticated scans when you have credentials.
  • It can be noisy and potentially alarming to defenders, so use responsibly and with authorization.

Quick start

  • Enumerate with all methods:
enum4linux -a {{remote_host}}
  • Enumerate with login credentials:
enum4linux -u {{user_name}} -p {{password}} {{remote_host}}
  • List usernames from a host:
enum4linux -U {{remote_host}}
  • List shares:
enum4linux -S {{remote_host}}
  • Get OS information:
enum4linux -o {{remote_host}}

Common use cases (examples)

  • Quick audit of a host you own:
enum4linux -a 192.0.2.10
  • If you have credentials:
enum4linux -u alice -p s3cr3t 192.0.2.10
  • Only want to know users:
enum4linux -U 192.0.2.10
  • Enumerate shares for mapping writable resources:
enum4linux -S 192.0.2.10

What you’ll typically see

  • OS information lines like OS and server service pack.
  • Lists of users and groups when permissions allow.
  • Shared folders and sometimes printable shares.
  • Possible authentication errors that indicate wrong credentials or account restrictions.

Common pitfalls

  • Firewalls or IDS may block SMB probes; you might see timeouts instead of data.
  • Anonymous enumeration may be restricted on hardened targets; expect limited output.
  • Credential handling: avoid exposing credentials in shell history or scripts.
  • Legacy SMB protocols may be disabled; results may vary across Windows versions.

Tips for reliable results

  • Start with passive, non-authenticated scans (-a or -U/-S), then escalate with credentials if permitted.
  • If you see timeouts, verify network reachability and that SMB ports are open (usually 445 and/or 139).
  • Combine outputs with other tools (nmap scripts, smbclient) for confirmation.
  • Run in a controlled environment and respect legal boundaries.

Troubleshooting quick checklist

  • No output or errors about authentication:
    • Ensure credentials are correct and the account has the necessary permissions.
    • Check if the target blocks SMB or requires signing.
  • Partial data from -a:
    • Some targets disable certain enum4linux methods; try targeted options like -U, -S, or -o individually.
  • Connectivity errors:
    • Confirm the host is reachable (ping/traceroute).
    • Verify network paths and firewall rules.
  • enum4linux is a conventional tool for Windows/Samba enumeration and is often used in pen-testing assessments.
  • Always obtain explicit permission before scanning systems you do not own.

See Also