Shadow Cracker

🔓 Can you crack the shadow and reveal the secrets?

Challenge 10 Dec 2025 Free Access Solution (Pro)

A Linux shadow file has fallen into your hands during a security assessment. Hidden within the cryptographic hashes lies a secret waiting to be uncovered. Armed with the right tools and techniques, can you break through the encryption and recover the hidden credentials? Time to put your password cracking skills to the test! 💪

Flags

Points

61%

Success Rate

Start Your Challenge

Launch your dedicated machine to begin hacking

~1-2 min setup

Dedicated server

Private instance

Industry standard

Open the target and find the flags

Flag

+5 pts

Shadow Cracker

Challenge 5 points

Writeup Guidelines

Share your solution approach, methodology, and insights. Your writeup will be reviewed before being published to the community. Earn +5 bonus points when your writeup is approved!

Requirements:

No flag content: Do not reveal actual flag values or passwords in your writeup
Include lab link: Your writeup must contain a direct link to this lab for reference
Educational focus: Explain your methodology, tools used, and learning insights

Writeup URL *

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Remember to include this lab's URL in your writeup: https://hackerdna.com/labs/shadow-cracker

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I confirm that my writeup includes a direct link to this lab

Your writeup must reference this lab's URL: https://hackerdna.com/labs/shadow-cracker

I confirm that my writeup does NOT contain flag content or critical information

Do not include actual flags, passwords, or other sensitive information that would spoil the challenge