Mimikatz is a Windows post-exploitation framework designed for extracting plaintext passwords, hashes, PIN codes, and security tokens from system memory and the registry. It functions as a credential extraction tool that targets the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service to retrieve cached credentials and sensitive account data.
The project provides specialized capabilities for Active Directory penetration testing, including the simulation of domain controllers to replicate directory secrets. It features a Kerberos ticket manipulator capable of exporting, injecting, and forging authentication tickets to bypass identity verification.
The framework covers a broad range of security analysis activities, including privilege escalation, network lateral movement, and the export of private keys and certificates from system stores. It also includes utilities for kernel-mode driver injection to bypass operating system protections and the encryption of remote command traffic.