PurpleSharp review
A focused, free tool for ATT&CK-based Windows simulations and detection validation.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
PurpleSharp is an open-source C# adversary simulation tool for Windows Active Directory environments. It is designed for security teams building and testing detection analytics, validating detection resiliency, identifying visibility gaps, and inspecting event-logging pipelines. Simulations can run on local endpoints or remote endpoints over SMB and RPC, with command-line execution for operational control. Its coverage spans execution, persistence, privilege escalation, credential access, lateral movement, discovery, and defense evasion, with 47 documented MITRE ATT&CK techniques.
The tool’s strongest fit is focused ATT&CK testing with customizable scenarios. JSON playbooks let teams define simulations around their own validation goals, while endpoint reconnaissance tasks and cleanup controls support preparation and post-simulation handling. ATT&CK Navigator layer export and import provides a direct planning and review connection for teams that map testing activity to ATT&CK techniques. This combination gives PurpleSharp useful depth for detection engineering rather than positioning it as a broad security operations platform.
PurpleSharp is free and open source, with an on-premises deployment model and Windows platform coverage. That keeps the product suited to teams that want local control over simulations and do not need a commercial plan structure. The trade-off is a narrower operating scope: teams testing Linux, macOS, or other platforms should choose a tool with broader platform coverage. The lack of continuous scheduling also makes it less suitable for organizations seeking recurring, automated breach and attack simulation programs. Windows-focused teams running deliberate ATT&CK exercises should find the feature set aligned with that use case; teams needing wider coverage or ongoing scheduling should look elsewhere.
PurpleSharp pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Runs MITRE ATT&CK simulations locally or across remote Windows endpoints
- Supports custom JSON playbooks and command-line execution
- Exports and imports ATT&CK Navigator layers for campaign planning
- Where it doesn't
- Windows-only coverage limits cross-platform testing
- On-premises deployment may require local infrastructure and administration
- No continuous scheduling for recurring simulation programs
PurpleSharp fact sheet, pricing and score →
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