A dictionary attack is a method used to break into a password-protected computer or server by systematically entering every word in a dictionary as a password. In the context of an authentication system that uses only 4- digit numeric passwords, a dictionary attack would involve trying all possible combinations of 4-digit numbers until the correct one is found. Understanding Cisco Cybersecurity Operations Fundamentals (CBROPS) course materials discuss various attack methods, including dictionary attacks, and how they can be used to compromise networks