Havoc is a cutting-edge post-exploitation command and control (C2) framework designed for modern cybersecurity needs. Created by @C5pider, Havoc stands out for its flexibility and adaptability in penetration testing and red teaming scenarios.
Understanding Havoc Server
The Havoc framework utilizes a robust teamserver, written in Golang, which is central to its operation. This Havoc Server facilitates multi-player collaboration, allowing red teams to operate cohesively. It’s designed for customization, supporting tailored C2 profiles and even external C2 integrations, making it a versatile tool for diverse security environments.
Key Features of the Teamserver
Havoc’s teamserver is packed with features crucial for effective command and control. It includes built-in payload generation for various formats like EXE, shellcode, and DLLs. The server supports HTTP/HTTPS listeners, ensuring secure communication channels. Customization is a core aspect, with configurable C2 profiles that allow operators to adapt to different network conditions and security postures. For advanced users, the external C2 capability extends Havoc’s reach and integration potential.
Demon Agent: Core Component of Havoc Framework
Havoc’s flagship agent, named Demon, is written in C and ASM and works in tandem with the Havoc server. Demon is engineered for stealth and efficacy, incorporating sleep obfuscation techniques via Ekko, Ziliean, or FOLIAGE. It employs x64 return address spoofing and indirect syscalls for Nt* APIs to evade detection. SMB support broadens its lateral movement capabilities, and a token vault enhances credential management. Demon includes a range of built-in post-exploitation commands, streamlining operations. Furthermore, it can patch AMSI/ETW using hardware breakpoints and supports proxy library loading, increasing its adaptability within hardened environments. Stack duplication during sleep further aids in evasion.
Getting Started with Havoc Server
To begin using Havoc, it is recommended to consult the comprehensive Wiki for detailed documentation. Havoc is compatible with Debian 10/11, Ubuntu 20.04/22.04, and Kali Linux, with newer versions generally preferred for optimal performance. A modern Qt version and Python 3.10.x are necessary to prevent build complications. Installation guides are available in the Installation documentation. For troubleshooting, the Known Issues page and the Issues list on GitHub are valuable resources.
Extensibility and Community
Havoc is designed to be highly extensible, allowing users to add custom features and modules. The active community around Havoc can be joined via the official Havoc Discord, providing a platform for users to connect, share insights, and contribute to the framework’s growth. Contributions to the Havoc Framework are welcomed; guidelines are available in Contributing.md.
While Havoc provides a robust and adaptable framework, it is crucial to understand that evasion is not its primary design focus. Instead, Havoc is built for malleability and modularity, empowering operators to implement custom evasion techniques tailored to specific target environments.
This project is sponsored by JetBrains, providing OSS licenses to support Havoc development.
