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Setting Up Kali Linux

1 Global Definition

Kali Linux is a specialized Linux distribution designed for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and security research. It comes preloaded with hundreds of tools for reconnaissance, exploitation, forensics, and vulnerability testing, making it the go-to platform for cybersecurity professionals.

1.1 Installation Methods

Virtual Machine

Running Kali inside a virtual environment.

Tools: VMware, VirtualBox
Easy setup, safe testing environment
Recommended for beginners

Dual Boot

Installing Kali alongside another OS.

Choose OS at startup
Direct hardware access (faster performance)
Riskier, requires partitioning knowledge

Live USB

Running Kali directly from a USB stick.

No installation required
Persistence option available
Portable for on-the-go testing

Cloud Deployment

Running Kali on cloud platforms.

AWS, Azure, Google Cloud supported
Scalable and remote-friendly
Useful for large-scale tests

1.2 System Requirements

CPU: 2+ GHz dual-core
RAM: Minimum 2 GB (4 GB+ recommended)
Storage: At least 20 GB free space
Bootable USB or ISO image

1.3 Step-by-Step Installation

Download the official ISO from kali.org
Create a bootable USB (Rufus or BalenaEtcher)
Boot system from USB or start VM
Select "Graphical Install"
Choose language, region, and keyboard layout
Configure network (DHCP or manual)
Partition disk (automatic or manual)
Set username and password
Install GRUB bootloader (for dual boot setups)
Reboot into Kali Linux

1.4 First Steps After Installation

Update system: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
Check installed tools: kali-tools meta-packages
Install missing utilities: sudo apt install -y git curl
Create non-root user for safer use

1.5 Common Tools in Kali Linux

Information Gathering

Nmap
Whois
Recon-ng

Vulnerability Analysis

OpenVAS
Nikto
Sqlmap

Exploitation

Metasploit Framework
BeEF
Armitage

Wireless Attacks

Aircrack-ng
Wifite
Kismet

1.6 Security & Best Practices

Run updates regularly to patch tools
Avoid using root account for daily tasks
Use Snapshots in VMs before testing
Do not attack unauthorized systems (illegal activity)

1.7 Why It Matters

Kali Linux provides a ready-made, professional environment for penetration testing and security assessments. By setting it up correctly, security professionals gain access to powerful tools and workflows, ensuring they can test defenses effectively while maintaining ethical and legal standards.