Havoc
Modern malleable post-exploitation C2 framework with a teamserver, Qt client, and extensible agents.
GitHub repository archived in February 2026. No further updates or fixes. See https://github.com/HavocFramework/Havoc
Technical Architecture & Overview
Havoc is an open source command and control framework built around a teamserver and a graphical client, with a Demon agent supporting sleep obfuscation, indirect syscalls, and custom payload profiles. Extensions and modules let operators customize implant behavior, and its profile system emulates adversary tradecraft for detection validation. The framework was developed by C5pider and community contributors. The GitHub repository was archived in February 2026 and no longer receives updates, so treat it as a stable but unmaintained codebase.
Targeted Technical Use Cases
Authorized red team campaigns that need a modern open source C2 with customizable evasion properties.
Evaluation & Trade-offs
Core Strengths
- +Modern architecture with a well-documented Demon agent.
- +Extensive customization through profiles and extensions.
- +Free alternative in the Cobalt Strike class.
Trade-Offs & Limitations
- -Repository is archived; no further fixes or agent updates.
- -Real-world abuse means defenders should also know its indicators.
Defensive Security Application
Adversary emulation that validates EDR coverage against current tradecraft, plus a known C2 to build detections for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Havoc?→
Havoc is an open source command and control framework built around a teamserver and a graphical client, with a Demon agent supporting sleep obfuscation, indirect syscalls, and custom payload profiles. Extensions and modules let operators customize implant behavior, and its profile system emulates adversary tradecraft for detection validation. The framework was developed by C5pider and community contributors. The GitHub repository was archived in February 2026 and no longer receives updates, so treat it as a stable but unmaintained codebase.
What is Havoc used for?→
Authorized red team campaigns that need a modern open source C2 with customizable evasion properties.
What are the strengths of Havoc?→
- +Modern architecture with a well-documented Demon agent.
- +Extensive customization through profiles and extensions.
- +Free alternative in the Cobalt Strike class.
What are the limitations of Havoc?→
- +Repository is archived; no further fixes or agent updates.
- +Real-world abuse means defenders should also know its indicators.
How is Havoc used defensively?→
Adversary emulation that validates EDR coverage against current tradecraft, plus a known C2 to build detections for.