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Global Accelerated Learning • Est. 1999
Glossary Term Command and Control Channel (C2)

Training Camp • Cybersecurity Glossary

What is Command and Control Channel (C2)?

A C2 (command and control) channel is the covert communication path attackers use to control compromised hosts and exfiltrate data after a breach.

Glossary > Threats, Malware & Attacks > Command and Control Channel (C2)

Understanding Command and Control Channel (C2)

A command and control (C2) channel is the communication path that an attacker uses to remotely manage compromised systems and exfiltrate data after an initial breach. Malware beacons out to attacker-controlled infrastructure over protocols such as HTTPS, DNS, or messaging services, often disguised within normal traffic to evade detection. Disrupting C2 channels is a key defensive goal, since cutting them off can neutralize an active intrusion.

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