Installation and activation guide

How to install and activate Control Pack - Step by step guide

Control Pack is a Java desktop application. Because it runs on a JVM, it is multi-platform and can run on Windows, Linux or macOS. This guide explains how to prepare the environment and install Control Pack on your chosen OS.

Overview & recommendations

  • Control Pack requires a Java Virtual Machine (JVM). You can use OpenJDK and Oracle Java.

  • Prefer a modern Java (JDK) release. For production and stability, we recommend using the latest LTS release.

Environment suggestions

  • We recommend running Control Pack from an isolated environment such as a virtual machine (VirtualBox, VMware, etc.).

  • Control Pack includes exploit scripts and utilities that many antivirus products will flag (and in some cases quarantine or delete). Running from a VM reduces the risk to your primary desktop and prevents accidental leaks during testing.

  • During penetration tests or red team exercises, always work from an isolated environment, not from your everyday workstation.

Nmap and Python

Control Pack requires both Nmap and Python (V2.7). If you don't have them installed yet, you can either:

  • Visit their official websites to download and install them manually.

  • Simply launch Control Pack, and a pop-up will guide you through the installation process.

Technical requirements

Minimum recommended resources:

  • Disk: ≥ 500 MB free

  • RAM: ≈ 4 GB or more

  • CPU: modern multi-core CPU capable of handling multi-threaded workloads Any operating system is suitable, provided a compatible JVM is installed.

Java installation: Quick notes

  • Decide whether to use OpenJDK or Oracle JDK. Both are supported.

  • Install a modern JDK. Preferably, the latest LTS release that receives long-term updates and support; using an up-to-date JDK gives you performance, stability and security improvements.

  • After installing the JDK, verify it from a terminal/command prompt with java -version and javac -version. The output should match the JDK you installed.

Install Java on Linux ( Debian-based ) or Mac: 

apt-get install default-jdk
brew install --cask oracle-jdk

Installation steps

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  • Download the launcher.

  • Download your copy of Control Pack using the personal download link and the credentials provided. The download links and activation are available for 48 hours.

  • Only extract (uncompress) the launcher. Do not extract other archive files. It should look like this:

  • Open the launcher .jar from the launcher folder.

  • The tool in the launcher will appear greyed out.

  • Click Activate.

  • In the file dialog, select the Control Pack .zip file you downloaded and click Open.

  • Follow the on-screen steps. When activation succeeds, the Order now button will change to Launch.

  • Click Launch, and a new window will open.

  • Click Browse key and select your key file.

  • Read the EULA carefully. If you agree, click I agree. Control Pack will then start.

Congratulations! You have used your first CPU cycles with Control Pack on your system! ‌

Happy Hacking!

Important notes

  • If an antivirus flags files, run Control Pack in an isolated VM or lab and whitelist the Control Pack folder only inside that isolated environment.

  • Do not run any of our tools as the Root/Administrator account. Run it as a regular (non-privileged) user to reduce risk.

The first time you run Control Pack, it will prompt you with the first-steps configuration wizard. If you need help to configure it in Control Pack, please check the section "First Steps"

Never run Control Pack on production networks or systems without explicit authorisation.

Keep your JVM and OS updated with security patches.

When performing client engagements, follow the rules of engagement and always get written authorisation.

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