How do I use PSReflect to call a Windows API function?

Define the function in memory using PSReflect's methods, specifying parameters and return types, then invoke it directly in PowerShell. The module provides templates, but you'll need to reference Win32 documentation for accurate definitions.

PSReflect vs using Add-Type in PowerShell – what's the difference?

Add-Type compiles C# code, potentially leaving disk artifacts, while PSReflect uses pure reflection without compilation for better stealth. However, Add-Type might offer better performance for repeated calls due to compilation.

Is PSReflect safe to use in production environments?

While powerful for automation, its dynamic nature can introduce instability; it's best suited for security research or administrative scripts, not mission-critical systems without extensive testing.

Can PSReflect bypass antivirus detection?

It reduces disk artifacts through in-memory execution, but modern EDR tools may still detect reflective API calls, so it's not foolproof and should be used ethically in authorized testing.

What are some practical examples of PSReflect in red teaming?

Common uses include process injection, token manipulation, and direct system calls for lateral movement, leveraging its stealth to avoid dropping tools on disk during assessments.

How to install and set up PSReflect module?

Install via PowerShell Gallery with 'Install-Module -Name PSReflect' or clone from GitHub, then load it using 'Import-Module PSReflect' to start defining in-memory types and functions.

Open-Awesome

PSReflect

BSD-3-ClausePowerShell

A PowerShell module for defining in-memory enums, structs, and Win32 functions without compiling C#.

GitHub

228 stars62 forks0 contributors

What is PSReflect?

PSReflect is a PowerShell module that allows developers to define enums, structs, and Win32 API functions entirely in memory without compiling C# code. It solves the problem of interacting with low-level Windows APIs dynamically and stealthily, making it easier to perform system-level operations directly from PowerShell scripts. This is especially useful for security testing, system administration, and automation tasks that require native API access.

Target Audience

Security researchers, red teamers, system administrators, and PowerShell developers who need to interact with Windows APIs dynamically without leaving compiled artifacts on disk.

Value Proposition

Developers choose PSReflect because it eliminates the need for C# compilation, reduces external dependencies, and enables stealthy in-memory execution of Win32 API calls, all within the familiar PowerShell environment.

Overview

Easily define in-memory enums, structs, and Win32 functions in PowerShell

Use Cases

Best For

Dynamically calling Win32 API functions from PowerShell scripts
Performing stealthy security assessments without disk artifacts
Interacting with low-level Windows system APIs for automation
Red team operations requiring in-memory execution of native functions
System administration tasks that need direct API access without compiled code
Creating custom enums and structs in PowerShell for API interactions

Not Ideal For

Projects targeting non-Windows operating systems or requiring cross-platform compatibility
Teams that prefer compiled, type-safe code over dynamic reflection for performance and reliability
Environments where disk-based execution logs are mandatory for security auditing or compliance

Pros & Cons

Pros

In-Memory Execution

Enables defining enums, structs, and Win32 functions without compiling to disk, reducing forensic traces and enabling stealth operations as highlighted in the README.

No External Dependencies

Works entirely within PowerShell, avoiding the need for C# compilation or additional tools, maintaining script portability and simplicity.

Dynamic Win32 API Access

Facilitates on-the-fly calling of native Windows APIs, useful for security testing and system administration without pre-compiled code.

Cons

Windows-Exclusive Limitation

Tied strictly to Windows and Win32 APIs, making it unsuitable for Linux, macOS, or any cross-platform development efforts.

Reflection Performance Overhead

Uses .NET reflection dynamically at runtime, which can be slower and less efficient than pre-compiled C# code for frequent or high-performance API calls.

Steep Learning Curve

Requires deep knowledge of Win32 APIs and advanced PowerShell features, not ideal for casual scripters or those new to low-level system programming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Projects

PowerSploit

PowerSploit - A PowerShell Post-Exploitation Framework

Stars12,997

Forks4,714

Last commit5 years ago

BloodHound

Six Degrees of Domain Admin

Stars10,539

Forks1,790

Last commit3 months ago

Nishang

Nishang - Offensive PowerShell for red team, penetration testing and offensive security.

Stars9,924

Forks2,546

Last commit2 years ago

PowerShellEmpire

Empire is a PowerShell and Python post-exploitation agent.

Stars7,835

Forks2,925

Last commit6 years ago

Community-curated · Updated weekly · 100% open source

Found a gem we're missing?

Open-Awesome is built by the community, for the community. Submit a project, suggest an awesome list, or help improve the catalog on GitHub.

Submit a project Star on GitHub