What does a password cracker do?

A password cracker's primary function is to test the strength of passwords by attempting to guess them. This process typically involves using various methods, such as brute force attacks, which systematically tries every possible combination until the correct password is found, or dictionary attacks, which utilize pre-defined lists of words and common passwords. The goal is to evaluate how secure a given password is against unauthorized access.

Using a password cracker can highlight vulnerabilities in password strength, allowing individuals and organizations to create stronger passwords that are more resistant to attacks. By understanding how easily a password can be cracked, users can be encouraged to implement better password practices, such as using a mix of characters, longer lengths, and avoiding easily guessed information.

In contrast, other functions mentioned, such as encrypting passwords, generating new passwords, or storing passwords securely, do not align with the primary purpose of a password cracker. These functions generally involve protecting or managing passwords rather than testing their security.