How to use GoBuster for OSINT: Step By Step Guide

Are you ready to elevate your OSINT skills or enhance your cybersecurity expertise? This guide is crafted to help you master GoBuster for OSINT with practical, hands-on tips. Whether you’re an experienced hacker or just starting out, you’ll find actionable insights and real-world examples to get you up and running with GoBuster. 

But before we start if you’ve found this guide helpful and are enthusiastic about exploring more tools and staying updated with the latest in cybersecurity, feel free to follow us on our Instagram and Telegram channels. We regularly share new insights, tools, and updates to keep you ahead in the field. Don’t miss out—connect with us and be part of our community!

What You’ll Learn in This Article

• What is GoBuster?
• Why Use GoBuster for OSINT?
• Installing GoBuster on Kali Linux
• Practical Use of GoBuster: Real-World Examples
• Best Wordlists for GoBuster
• Real-World Example: Performing OSINT with GoBuster
• Common Issues and Fixes
• GoBuster vs Other OSINT Tools
• Using GoBuster for Ethical Hacking

What is GoBuster?

Let’s get straight to it. GoBuster is a versatile tool for finding hidden directories, files, and DNS subdomains. Known for its speed and simplicity, it’s a favorite among ethical hackers and cybersecurity pros. Unlike other tools such as DirBuster or FFUF, GoBuster is streamlined and efficient, making it ideal for various penetration testing scenarios.

Why Use GoBuster for OSINT?

In the realm of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT), uncovering hidden directories and subdomains is crucial. GoBuster helps you discover these hidden assets, whether you’re working in white hat or black hat contexts. It’s your go-to tool for effective reconnaissance and penetration testing.

Installing GoBuster on Kali Linux

Ready to get started? Here’s a simple way to install GoBuster on Kali Linux:

Standard Installation

For a quick, run:

sudo apt-get install gobuster

Cloning from GitHub

If you prefer the latest version, follow these steps:

git clone https://github.com/OJ/gobuster
cd gobuster
go build

And just like that, you’re all set to dive into GoBuster!

Practical Use of GoBuster: Real-World Examples

1. Directory Brute-Forcing with GoBuster

Let’s find those hidden directories:

gobuster dir -u http://targetwebsite.com -w /path/to/wordlist.txt

> dir  :Tells GoBuster to look for directories.

> -u  :Specifies the target URL.

> -w  : Path to your wordlist.

If you wan to get faster results. Increase the number of threads:

gobuster dir -u http://targetwebsite.com -w /path/to/wordlist.txt -t 50

Pro Tip: Use popular wordlists from SecLists for better results.

2. DNS Enumeration Using GoBuster

Now, let’s uncover subdomains:

gobuster dns -d targetwebsite.com -w /path/to/dns-wordlist.txt

> dns  :Specifies DNS enumeration mode.

> -d  :The domain you’re targeting.

> -w  :Wordlist for subdomains

Pro Tip: Check out SecLists for a detailed subdomain wordlist.

3. Adding Extensions for Specific File Types

Looking for specific files? Use:

gobuster dir -u http://targetwebsite.com -w /path/to/wordlist.txt -x php,html,txt

This command helps you find files like config.php or login.html.

Pro Tip: Target configuration files or login pages to uncover valuable insights.

Best Wordlists for GoBuster

Here’s a list of top wordlists to use:

• SecLists: Comprehensive lists for directories and subdomains.
• Custom Wordlists: Create your own based on the website’s structure.

Get SecLists here:

git clone https://github.com/danielmiessler/SecLists.git

Check out directories like Discovery and DNS for useful lists.

Real-World Example: Performing OSINT with GoBuster

Step 1: DNS Enumeration

Start by discovering subdomains:

gobuster dns -d targetwebsite.com -w /usr/share/wordlists/dns/subdomains.txt

Possible findings:

• admin.targetwebsite.com
• mail.targetwebsite.com

Step 2: Directory Brute-Forcing

Next, scan the discovered subdomains:

gobuster dir -u http://admin.targetwebsite.com -w /usr/share/wordlists/dirb/common.txt

 Potential directories:

• /admin/login
• /admin/config

These insights can provide critical entry points for deeper analysis.

Common Issues and Fixes

>GoBuster Not Working?

• Solution: Double-check the wordlist path and URL.

>Slow Scans?

• Solution: Reduce the wordlist size or increase the thread count (-t).

>DNS Errors?

• Solution: Adjust DNS resolver settings or try using a VPN.

GoBuster vs Other OSINT Tools

GoBuster vs DirBuster: GoBuster is faster and simpler, while DirBuster offers a GUI.

GoBuster vs FFUF: FFUF is customizable but usually slower.

GoBuster vs Nmap: Nmap is a general scanner; GoBuster specializes in directories and DNS.

GoBuster vs Burp Suite: Burp Suite has more features but is more resource-intensive.

For most OSINT tasks, GoBuster’s speed and ease of use make it a top choice.

Using GoBuster for Ethical Hacking

Incorporate GoBuster into your penetration testing routine:

1. Reconnaissance: Identify hidden directories and files.
2. Attack Surface Discovery: Use DNS enumeration to find subdomains.
3. Automation: Customize wordlists for targeted scanning

GoBuster is a powerful tool for OSINT investigations and ethical hacking. Its ability to brute-force directories and enumerate DNS subdomains makes it essential for discovering hidden information. Whether you’re conducting security audits or performing reconnaissance, GoBuster offers unmatched speed and efficiency.

For more advanced techniques, check out our tutorials on PIP-INTEL and Ominis

Related Posts:

• PIP-INTEL Open Source Intelligence Tool Designed Using Open-Source Tools and PIP Packages
• Ominis OSINT For Secure Web-Search Like Dorking

Share this guide if you found it useful!

Get certified in Offensive Hacking from your home comfort and time flexibility, Join our Course Today To Get 10% Special Off.