Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI) Practice Exam

The first step in the process of cracking a password involves creating a word list, which can be done using a dictionary generator program or by utilizing predefined dictionaries. This is essential because password cracking often relies on attempting to match the hashed version of a password with its original form through common, likely credentials found in these word lists.

The creation of a word list is foundational as it serves as the starting point for generating potential passwords that could match the target. By assembling words that people typically use as passwords, the process of cracking becomes more efficient. Dictionaries are commonly utilized because they contain a wealth of words and phrases, which significantly increases the chances of guessing the correct password.

Other steps in the password cracking sequence, such as hashing the word list or comparing hashed words against the target password, depend on having an initial list of potential passwords to work with. Therefore, creating a robust word list is crucial for the success of subsequent methods used in the cracking process.