What information does command and control server typically manage?

The command and control (C2) server plays a crucial role in the management of compromised systems within a network that has been infiltrated by malicious actors. This server is used to send specific commands and instructions to affected devices, allowing attackers to control them remotely. Command and control servers are typically used in the context of botnets or malware, where an attacker can issue commands to execute harmful actions, retrieve data, or propagate further across the network.

In the context of the options presented, the focus on compromised system commands highlights the primary function of a C2 server, which is to facilitate the communication between the attacker's infrastructure and the infected machines. This includes tasks like executing payloads, gathering system information, launching DDoS attacks, or deploying additional malware.

Other options, while important in different aspects of network management and security, do not align with the core purpose of a command and control server. For instance, software updates, network configurations, and firewall rules are typically managed within the context of IT administration and cybersecurity but do not pertain to the malicious control tasks that a C2 server is designed for. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the specific and strategic role that command and control servers play in orchestrating activities on compromised systems.