CrackMapExec vs MicroBurst: 2026 Comparison
CrackMapExec is a free penetration testing tool. MicroBurst is a free penetration testing tool. Compare features, ratings, integrations, and community reviews side by side to find the best penetration testing fit for your security stack.
CST VerdictBased on our analysis of available product data, here is our conclusion:
Penetration testers and red teamers validating Active Directory security posture should reach for CrackMapExec first; it maps domain trust relationships and credential paths faster than manual enumeration, cutting reconnaissance time from days to hours. The tool ships with modules for Kerberos abuse, lateral movement, and privilege escalation that align directly with MITRE ATT&CK post-exploitation tactics, making it the standard for AD-focused engagements. Skip this if your team needs a polished UI or post-exploitation reporting; CrackMapExec is command-line only and generates no client-ready artifacts on its own.
Azure penetration testers and red teamers need MicroBurst because it's the only free toolkit that maps Azure misconfigurations to actual post-exploitation paths rather than just flagging them. With 2,320 GitHub stars and active community contribution, it gives you discovery, lateral movement, and privilege escalation primitives purpose-built for Azure's identity and resource model. Skip this if your team needs a commercial support contract or expects a GUI; MicroBurst is command-line only and demands PowerShell fluency to operationalize.
