During a breakout assessment, we are attempting to run commands in any way that is possible, sometimes having to think outside the box, sometimes using the inbuilt windows functionality.

The Windows Run command is a feature of Windows that allows a user to quickly launch application, access files, or use systems tools by typing in a command or key word. Accessible by either using the shortcut keys Windows+R or typing run in the start menu, this is a simple feature to explore

Using the run feature, we can attempt to access programs such as command prompt/PowerShell or explore different system tools.

It is also possible to Run a new task on a Windows device through other functionality. The Task Manager (accessible via CTRL+ALT+DEL) is traditionally used as a way to kill a process. This may be helpful if there is a process blocking our breakout attempts, however we can also use this to trigger the Run box.

By navigating to File > Run new Task, the task manager spawns a run box that can, again, be used to attempt to launch applications, explore folders, or use system tools

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