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OSCP · Module 5

Introduction to Web Applications

Web application fundamentals for penetration testing. HTTP basics, technology fingerprinting, content discovery, CMS detection, and Burp Suite as intercepting proxy.

~1 h 10 resources Last updated September 25, 2026

Before attacking web applications, you need to understand how they work. This module covers the fundamentals: HTTP request and response structure, common web technologies, content management systems, and the tools used to inspect and map web application attack surfaces. Burp Suite is your primary proxy for all web testing in PEN-200.

Web Technology Identification

Fingerprint the web stack before testing. Server software, frameworks, CMS platforms, and programming languages each have their own set of known vulnerabilities and attack patterns.

Web Application Mapping

Discover content, endpoints, virtual hosts, and parameters. Directory brute-forcing, crawling, and API enumeration build the map you test against. Burp Suite ties it all together as an intercepting proxy for manual inspection and repeating requests.

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The core material for this module. Where a guide goes deeper than needed, the relevant sections are highlighted.