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Metasploit

As explained in Grokking Web Application Security

Metasploit is a security testing framework that provides modules for discovering and exploiting vulnerabilities.

Metasploit is a hacking and security-testing tool used to probe websites for vulnerabilities. It can incorporate proof-of-concept exploits: code that demonstrates how a known flaw can enable malicious activity. section 1.1

Its practical risk is speed. Once vulnerabilities are published as CVEs, exploit code may become available and enter tools such as Metasploit, giving both malicious and authorized testers a way to test exposed systems. section 1.1

Treat Metasploit activity as a reminder to reduce the window between disclosure and defense:

  • Track published CVEs affecting deployed software and apply available patches promptly. section 1.1
  • Test websites for known vulnerabilities before attackers can use publicly available exploit code. section 1.1

How Grokking Web Application Security covers it

How deep it goes
Mentions Metasploit as an exploit-incorporating probing tool without operational commands, modules, or setup details.
Examples
Uses malicious code smuggled into a vulnerable system as the stated exploit scenario.
What you can do after
Evaluate/understand how published vulnerabilities can become quickly usable probing and attack capabilities.
How it connects
Connects Metasploit with CVEs, proof-of-concept exploits, software patches, and website vulnerabilities.

This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Grokking Web Application Security. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.