Password Cracking

1.2 Password Cracking

Password cracking is a method used to decipher passwords by exploiting weak encryption, vulnerabilities, or user habits. It is commonly employed in both malicious activities and legitimate cybersecurity research, such as penetration testing.

.2.2 Tool Which I Explored

The tool I explored is CrackStation, an open-source web-based password-cracking tool. It uses an extensive database of precomputed hashes, known as rainbow tables, to crack passwords efficiently. CrackStation supports multiple hash types, including MD5, SHA1, and SHA256, making it effective for cracking weak or commonly used passwords stored with unsalted hashes. Its accessibility and ease of use make it a valuable resource for ethical testing and educational purposes. However, relying on a web service may raise privacy concerns when testing sensitive passwords.

1.2.3 Working of the Tool with Screenshots

To use CrackStation, users simply enter the hash they wish to crack into a designated field on the website and submit it for analysis. The tool searches its extensive precomputed database for a match and, if successful, displays the original password corresponding to the hash.

This straightforward process requires no additional software, offering a user-friendly experience. Screenshots of the workflow illustrate how to input a hash and view the cracked password on the results page, highlighting the tool's simplicity and effectiveness.