Hashcat Starter Guide
Polymath Studies Cybersecurity Academy

OBJECTIVE
Audit fabricated training hashes and understand password strength.

AUTHORIZED USE
Use this guide only with CyberLab targets, systems you own, or systems for which you have explicit written permission.

WORKFLOW
1. Identify the supplied hash type.
2. Save only the instructor-provided hashes in a lab file.
3. Start with a small approved wordlist.
4. Record candidates tested and results.
5. Compare with a controlled mask exercise.
6. Explain why length and unpredictability matter.
7. Delete temporary output after the lab.

LAB RECORD
Target and authorization:
Tool version:
Date and time:
Commands or actions:
Evidence collected:
Result:
Defensive recommendation:

REMEMBER
A tool result is evidence to evaluate—not automatic proof. Verify important findings independently.