This release marks a pivotal evolution of the HCX Toolkit, moving beyond simple automation to deliver operator-grade control and a staggering increase in capture performance. Version 8.0.7 is engineered for penetration testers who demand maximum efficiency and adaptability from their field equipment. It's leaner, smarter, and significantly more powerful.
This toolkit is specifically hardened for the WiFi Pineapple MKVII (running Hak5 Firmware 2.1.3-stable / OpenWrt 21.02.1), with all scripts written to be strictly POSIX-compliant for flawless execution on resource-constrained embedded systems.
Field-Tested: A 487% Performance Increase
In penetration testing, the volume and quality of captured data are paramount. The default wireless configuration on most platforms is built for stability, not for the aggressive collection required during an engagement.
This release introduces a custom-tuned wireless.config file, the result of extensive field testing. When applied, this configuration increases raw data capture (handshakes, PMKIDs, etc.) by over 487% compared to the stock Hak5 configuration. This is not a theoretical benchmark; it's a practical advantage that translates to more opportunities for cracking, more client data, and a more comprehensive understanding of the target environment in a shorter amount of time.
From Black Box to Open Toolkit: Total Radio Control
The core philosophy of v8.0.7 is operator control. The high-performance wireless.config is no longer a hidden, hard-coded block within the script. It is now an external file within the repository.
- Why this matters: You, the operator, now have full, transparent control over the radio's configuration. You can inspect, modify, and tailor every parameter to the specific RF environment of your engagement. Need to change beacon intervals, tweak transmit power, or alter other low-level settings? You can now do so without ever touching the script's logic.
--optimize-performance: Applies this powerful new configuration. Your existing config is safely backed up.--restore-config: Instantly revert to your original backup with a single command.
Operational Safeguards: Secure Your Access
A compromised tool is a liability. An inaccessible tool is useless. This release introduces a critical safeguard into the installation process. The installer now explicitly warns and instructs the user to edit the default credentials within the new wireless.config file before applying it. This prevents operators from accidentally locking themselves out of their own admin network—a small but crucial detail that ensures your gear is always ready for deployment.
Full Changelog for v8.0.7
Added
- External Configuration File: A default
wireless.configfile is now included in the repository, providing a tested, high-performance configuration out of the box.
Changed
- Refactored Performance Optimization: The
--optimize-performancefeature no longer uses a hard-coded configuration within the script. It now applies the externalwireless.configfile, making it easier for users to view, modify, and manage their optimized settings.
Security
- Critical Installation Warning: The installer now displays a prominent warning, instructing users to edit the default credentials in
wireless.configbefore applying it. This prevents users from accidentally locking themselves out of their device's admin network.
Happy Hunting! 😉