Quick Answer
Remote code execution on Windows systems is the correct choice because MS17-010 is a critical vulnerability in the Microsoft Server Message Block (SMB) protocol that allows an unauthenticated attacker to send specially crafted packets to a target SMB server, triggering arbitrary code execution with system-level privileges. This is the same flaw exploited by the EternalBlue exploit, which was weaponized in the WannaCry ransomware attacks to spread rapidly across networks. On the Certified Ethical Hacker CEH exam, this question tests your understanding of how protocol-level vulnerabilities can lead to full system compromise, often appearing in scenarios involving vulnerability scanning tools like Nessus or OpenVAS. A common trap is confusing this with a denial-of-service or information disclosure vulnerability, but the key is that SMBv1’s improper handling of malformed packets enables complete remote control. Memory tip: think “SMB = Send Malicious Bytes” to recall that EternalBlue grants blue-screen-level access.
This CEH practice question tests your understanding of footprinting, reconnaissance and scanning. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A security analyst runs a vulnerability scan with Nessus and receives a report indicating that multiple hosts have the 'MS17-010' vulnerability. What is the MOST likely impact of this vulnerability if exploited?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "most likely"
Why it matters: Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
Remote code execution on Windows systems
MS17-010 allows RCE via SMB, famously used by WannaCry.
SQL injection
Why wrong: SQL injection is a web application vulnerability.
Cross-site scripting
Why wrong: XSS is a client-side script injection.
DNS cache poisoning
Why wrong: DNS cache poisoning is not related to this vulnerability.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Remote code execution on Windows systems
MS17-010 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability in the Microsoft Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. Exploitation allows an unauthenticated attacker to send specially crafted packets to an SMB server, enabling arbitrary code execution with system privileges. This is the same vulnerability leveraged by the EternalBlue exploit used in the WannaCry ransomware attacks.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Remote code execution on Windows systems
Why this is correct
MS17-010 allows RCE via SMB, famously used by WannaCry.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
SQL injection
Why it's wrong here
SQL injection is a web application vulnerability.
Cross-site scripting
Why it's wrong here
XSS is a client-side script injection.
DNS cache poisoning
Why it's wrong here
DNS cache poisoning is not related to this vulnerability.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates may confuse MS17-010 with a general network vulnerability, but the CEH exam specifically tests that it is a remote code execution flaw in Windows SMB, not a web or DNS attack.
Detailed technical explanation
MS17-010 exploits a flaw in the SMBv1 protocol's handling of crafted Trans2 requests, specifically the 'SMB_COM_TRANSACTION2' command with a malformed 'SMB_QUERY_FILE_INFO' request. The vulnerability allows an attacker to corrupt kernel memory via a buffer overflow, enabling arbitrary code execution in the context of the SYSTEM account. In real-world scenarios, this vulnerability is often used for lateral movement within a Windows domain after initial access is gained.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A junior network technician can log in to a core router but cannot reach the enable prompt or configuration mode. The AAA server is authenticating the login — but the authorisation policy only grants privilege level 1, not 15. Authentication (who you are) is working; authorisation (what you can do) is not.
What to study next
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
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FAQ
Footprinting, Reconnaissance and Scanning — This question tests Footprinting, Reconnaissance and Scanning — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Remote code execution on Windows systems — MS17-010 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability in the Microsoft Server Message Block (SMB) protocol. Exploitation allows an unauthenticated attacker to send specially crafted packets to an SMB server, enabling arbitrary code execution with system privileges. This is the same vulnerability leveraged by the EternalBlue exploit used in the WannaCry ransomware attacks.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Yes — watch for: "most likely". Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
This CEH practice question is part of Courseiva's free EC-Council certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CEH exam.
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