Bandit · Level 2

Spaces in Filename

Handle filenames containing spaces to reveal the password for the next level.

Goal

Level Goal

The password for the next level is stored in a file called spaces in this filename located in your home directory.

Solution

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Exit Level 1 and SSH into Level 2

After retrieving the Level 2 password from -, exit the current SSH session (Level 1): 

exit

Then, connect to Level 2 using the password for bandit2: 

ssh bandit2@bandit.labs.overthewire.org -p 2220

2. List Files in the Bandit2 Directory

Once logged in as bandit2, list the files: 

ls

You will see a file named spaces in this filename.

3. Read the File with Spaces

Since the filename contains spaces, either escape each space or quote the filename. For example: 

cat spaces\ in\ this\ filename

Alternatively, use quotes: 

cat "spaces in this filename"

This command will display the password for Level 3.

Summary

Key Commands

  • exit — return to your local machine from the Level 1 SSH session.
  • ssh bandit2@bandit.labs.overthewire.org -p 2220 — connect as bandit2 on port 2220.
  • ls — list files; shows spaces in this filename.
  • cat spaces\ in\ this\ filename — display contents of the file with spaces.
  • cat "spaces in this filename" — alternative method to display file contents.