DEV Community

Cover image for How to Use the Botnet Simulation Project: A Step-by-Step Guide
christopher adams
christopher adams

Posted on

How to Use the Botnet Simulation Project: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Hey there, future cybersecurity whiz! So, you’ve decided to dive into the wild world of botnets, huh? Good choice. Whether you’re a student, a pro, or just someone who’s a little too curious, this botnet simulation is your playground. But remember—this is all in the name of learning, not chaos.

Disclaimer: This project is strictly for educational purposes. Be responsible, stay ethical, and don’t be that person.

Step 1: Clone the Repository

First things first, let’s get the goods. You’ll need to clone the GitHub repository to your local machine. Don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds:

git clone https://github.com/Chrisadams777/Seven-bot-seven.git
cd Seven-bot-seven

Boom. You’re in. Now, let’s get to the fun stuff.

Step 2: Set Up the Python Environment

If Python was a sneaker, it’d be those classic kicks you wear everywhere—versatile, reliable, and perfect for this job. So let’s lace up:

python --version

Make sure you’re rocking Python 3.7 or higher. Now, let’s set up a virtual environment to keep everything neat:

python -m venv botnet-env
source botnet-env/bin/activate # On Windows: botnet-env\Scripts\activate
pip install -r requirements.txt

Congrats! You’re all set with your coding dojo. Time to start swinging.

Step 3: Generate the Encrypted Payload

Here’s where things start getting interesting. You’re about to create an encrypted payload that’s sneakier than a ninja in a blackout:

python encrypt_bot_payload.py

This script does all the heavy lifting, creating a polymorphic decryptor and encrypting the bot payload. It’s like putting on your superhero suit—stealthy, stylish, and ready for action.

Step 4: Set Up the Command and Control (C&C) Server

Time to channel your inner puppet master. The C&C server is where you’ll be pulling the strings:

python c2_server.py

Now your server’s sitting there, just waiting for some bots to connect. It’s like the DJ at a party—nothing happens until you start spinning.

Step 5: Deploy the Bot on a Target Machine

Alright, here’s where you put your creation into the wild—well, a controlled wild. You’ll need to get the polymorphic_decryptor.py and encrypted_payload.bin onto a target machine. Maybe a test machine, because, you know, we’re ethical like that.

Once the bot is unleashed, it’ll phone home to your C&C server faster than a teenager begging for car keys.

Step 6: Issue Commands from the C&C Server

Now that your bot is connected, it’s time to see what it can do. Issue commands like a boss:

• Start keylogger: keylogger
• Scan local network: scan_network
• Run privilege escalation tools: privilege_escalation
• Capture screenshot: screenshot
• Execute custom commands: Type in whatever you want to run, like dir or whoami.
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

Your bot’s like a ride-or-die sidekick—it’ll do whatever you tell it to and report back with the details.

Step 7: Analyze Privilege Escalation Results

When you run the privilege_escalation command, your bot goes full detective mode, running winPEAS and WES-NG to scope out any vulnerabilities. The reports come straight back to your C&C server, ready for you to decide the next move.

Think of it like getting the dirt on your target—except this time, the dirt’s digital.

Step 8: Experiment and Learn

This is where you get to play. Tweak the bot, test different commands, and see what happens. Break it, fix it, learn from it. The more you mess around, the better you’ll understand how botnets work—and how to stop them.

Step 9: Clean Up

Like any good party, it’s important to clean up afterward. Here’s how:

• Terminate the C&C server: Press Ctrl + C to shut it down.
• Deactivate the virtual environment: Type deactivate in your terminal.
• Remove the project files: Delete the cloned repository and any files you generated.
Enter fullscreen mode Exit fullscreen mode

Don’t leave a trace, and you’ll be ready for the next round.

Conclusion

This botnet simulation isn’t just about learning—it’s about leveling up your cybersecurity game with some hands-on experience. Whether you’re hacking (ethically), defending, or just satisfying your curiosity, this project is your playground. So, head over to the GitHub repository, get started, and remember: with great power comes great responsibility.

Happy (ethical) hacking!

Top comments (0)