Hydra Password Cracker

Network Authentication Testing & Password Auditing

THC Hydra is a fast, parallelized network authentication cracker supporting 50+ protocols. It's designed to test password strength through dictionary and brute force attacks against login services. Hydra is one of the most popular password crackers used by penetration testers and security auditors worldwide.

🔴 RED TEAM Perspective

Use Hydra to compromise accounts with weak credentials: test common passwords, default credentials, and credential stuffing attacks. Gain initial access through SSH, RDP, FTP, web forms, and database services. Fast parallel attacks maximize success rate.

🔵 BLUE TEAM Perspective

Use Hydra to validate password policies: test if passwords meet complexity requirements, identify accounts vulnerable to dictionary attacks, verify rate limiting and account lockout mechanisms work correctly. Proactive password auditing prevents credential-based breaches.

🟣 PURPLE TEAM Mindset

Hydra reveals the weakest link in authentication. RED uses it to find the path of least resistance. BLUE uses it to eliminate that path. Both perspectives strengthen credential security.

Attack Configuration

4 (Stealthy)16 (Balanced)64 (Aggressive)
Command:
hydra -l admin -P rockyou.txt -t 16 ssh://192.168.1.10

Legal Notice: Only use Hydra against systems you own or have explicit written authorization to test. Unauthorized password cracking is illegal and violates computer fraud laws worldwide (CFAA, Computer Misuse Act).