The Function of a Command and Control Server

D.

The function of a command and control (C2 or C&C) server is to send instructions to a network of compromised devices or computers. This server is often used by hackers to control botnets, which are networks of compromised devices that can be used to launch attacks, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks or steal sensitive information.

When a device or computer is infected with malware, it will typically connect to the C2 server to receive commands. The server can instruct the malware to perform various malicious activities, such as stealing data, installing additional malware or executing a DDoS attack.

The C2 server can also be used to drop a secondary payload into the infected device. This secondary payload could be additional malware or an update to the existing malware to perform new actions.

A C2 server can be used by network defenders as well, but for a different purpose. In some cases, a C2 server can be used to regain control of compromised systems. By connecting to the C2 server, network defenders can send commands to the infected devices to remove the malware or to perform other actions to clean up the network.

In summary, the function of a command and control server is to send instructions to compromised devices or computers to perform malicious activities, such as stealing data, executing a DDoS attack, installing additional malware or dropping a secondary payload. It can also be used by network defenders to regain control of the network after a compromise.