WebDAV Explorer

WebDAV (Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning) is an extension of HTTP that enables remote file management on web servers. While designed for legitimate collaboration and content management, misconfigured WebDAV implementations are a well-known attack vector in penetration testing. A WebDAV exploit can allow attackers to upload malicious files, execute web shells, and gain complete control over the target server.

What is WebDAV and How Does It Work?

WebDAV extends the standard HTTP protocol with additional methods like PUT, PROPFIND, MKCOL, COPY, MOVE, and DELETE that allow clients to create, modify, and manage files on remote web servers. Originally developed for collaborative document editing, WebDAV is used by many content management systems, cloud storage platforms, and enterprise file sharing solutions. The protocol is supported natively by Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

The security risks emerge when WebDAV is enabled without proper access controls. Common misconfigurations include allowing anonymous access to WebDAV directories, failing to restrict which file types can be uploaded, and enabling WebDAV on directories where the web server executes scripts. When these conditions align, attackers can upload executable files like PHP web shells and access them through the browser to achieve remote code execution.

WebDAV Exploitation in Penetration Testing

Penetration testers routinely check for WebDAV during web server assessments. The process typically involves scanning for WebDAV-enabled directories using tools like davtest or nmap scripts, testing which HTTP methods are allowed with an OPTIONS request, attempting file uploads with various extensions to identify bypass opportunities, and verifying whether uploaded files are executed by the server. Even when certain file extensions are blocked, attackers may bypass restrictions using alternative extensions, content-type manipulation, or null byte injection.

Securing WebDAV Deployments

Organizations that require WebDAV functionality should implement strict authentication requirements, limit allowed file types and sizes, disable script execution in WebDAV directories, use separate domains or virtual hosts for file management, and regularly audit access logs. When WebDAV is not needed, it should be completely disabled to eliminate the attack surface.