What Is C&C Server?
C&C Server Definition
Short definition: C&C Server is a computer that is created to send commands to a virus or many viruses infecting computers, often a botnets (zombie networks).
Extended Definition:
C&C or Command and Control servers are servers that are created to control a lot of different malware infections in the same time. These servers have their IP addresses hidden to prevent reverse engineers to discover their original locations and they often have a very strong security that is designed to ensure them successful operations.
The main purpose of a C&C server is to not just manage a given infection or in the case of botnet malware hundreds of infections at the same time and control them, but to also serve as the keeper of the payload files, due to its strong security. Many malware authors upload the payload of viruses on in-house C&C servers to make sure that they are live and active all the time and secure, ensuring a higher percentage of infection rate when they attack a computer.
In more sophisticated threats, like ransomware infections, the viruses upload decryption keys of the infected victim PC’s files in the C&C servers to use them for extorting the victim to pay ransom.
For more definitions, check our Cyber Dictionary.