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Global Accelerated Learning • Est. 1999
Glossary Term DCSync Attack

Training Camp • Cybersecurity Glossary

What is DCSync Attack?

A DCSync attack abuses Active Directory replication privileges to impersonate a domain controller and steal password hashes, including krbtgt, remotely.

Glossary > Threats, Malware & Attacks > DCSync Attack

Understanding DCSync Attack

A DCSync attack is an Active Directory technique in which an adversary with sufficient replication privileges abuses the Directory Replication Service Remote Protocol (MS-DRSR) to impersonate a domain controller and request password hashes for any account, including the krbtgt key. Because it uses legitimate replication APIs rather than touching a domain controller's disk, it can extract credentials remotely and stealthily. Captured hashes enable pass-the-hash, golden ticket, and other credential-based attacks, making DCSync a high-impact post-exploitation method.

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