Empire
A post-exploitation framework.
Overview
Empire (formerly PowerShell Empire) is a widely known open-source post-exploitation framework. It is valued for its powerful PowerShell-based agent, which allows for extensive in-memory operations on Windows targets, making it difficult for traditional antivirus to detect. The project has since been updated to include a Python agent for other platforms and a more modern backend. It remains a popular tool for penetration testers and red teamers for its flexibility and extensive module library.
✨ Key Features
- PowerShell and Python agents
- Modular architecture with numerous post-exploitation modules
- C2 communication over various protocols
- Credential harvesting and privilege escalation tools
- Multi-player support for team operations
- RESTful API for scripting and integration
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Strong focus on PowerShell for Windows post-exploitation
- Completely free and open-source
- Large library of community-contributed modules
Unique Value: Provides a free, powerful, and flexible framework for post-exploitation, particularly on Windows, enabling security professionals to effectively test defenses against fileless and in-memory attack techniques.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- Performing post-exploitation on Windows networks using fileless, in-memory techniques
- Automating credential harvesting and lateral movement
- Establishing a flexible C2 channel during a penetration test
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Initial exploitation (it is a post-exploitation framework).
- Organizations seeking a commercially supported tool.
🏆 Alternatives
While not as actively developed or as modern as some alternatives like Sliver, Empire's extensive module base and strong PowerShell capabilities keep it a valuable tool in many offensive security toolkits.
💻 Platforms
✅ Offline Mode Available
🔌 Integrations
💰 Pricing
Free tier: Completely free and open-source.
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