If you're starting your journey in ethical hacking or cybersecurity, installing Kali Linux is one of the first steps to building your skills. This guide will walk you through the easiest way to install Kali Linux using VirtualBox, ensuring you're set up for success.
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Step 1: Install VirtualBox
Visit the VirtualBox Website: Head to virtualbox.org and click the "Download" button.
Download the Platform Package:
Select the package that matches your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
For example, if you’re on Windows, click the Windows version.
Run the Installer:
Launch the executable file you downloaded.
Click "Next" on the setup wizard and review the End User License Agreement.
You can customize the installation options, but for simplicity, accept the defaults by clicking "Next."
Handle the Network Warning:
The installer will warn you that the installation might temporarily disrupt your internet connection. Ensure you’re not performing any critical online tasks, then click "Yes."
Finish Installation:
Click "Install" and wait for the process to complete.
Once finished, ensure the "Start VirtualBox" option is checked, then click "Finish."
If VirtualBox launches successfully, it’s installed correctly.
Step 2: Download Kali Linux Virtual Machine Image
Go to the Kali Linux Website: Visit kali.org/get-kali
Select the VirtualBox Image:
Click on the "Virtual Machines" section.
Choose the VirtualBox image for Kali Linux and start downloading it.
Download 7-Zip:
While the Kali Linux image downloads, visit 7-zip.org.
Download the version suitable for your system (e.g., x64 for most modern Windows systems).
Install 7-Zip:
Launch the 7-Zip installer.
Click "Install," and once done, click "Close."
Step 3: Extract and Import the Kali Linux Virtual Machine
Extract the Downloaded File:
Once the Kali Linux image download is complete, right-click the file and use 7-Zip to extract it.
Choose a destination or extract it in place. This process may take some time due to the file size.
Locate the VirtualBox File:
After extraction, navigate to the folder containing the .vbox file (this is the VirtualBox image).
Import the Image into VirtualBox:
Double-click the .vbox file to automatically add the Kali Linux virtual machine to VirtualBox.
Once added, you’ll see it listed in VirtualBox.
Start the Virtual Machine:
Select the Kali Linux virtual machine in VirtualBox and double-click it to start.
Step 4: Log In and Adjust Settings
Default Credentials:
The default username is kali, and the default password is also kali.
Press Enter to log in.
Fix Screen Resolution:
If the display appears small or blurry, do the following:
Go to the top-left menu in Kali Linux and search for "Display."
Adjust the resolution to match your monitor (e.g., 1080p for standard HD monitors or 4K for high-resolution screens).
Click "Apply" and confirm the settings.
Switch to Scaled Mode (Optional):
In VirtualBox, go to the "View" menu and select "Scaled Mode" for better usability.
Step 5: Change the Default Password
For security, it’s highly recommended to change the default password immediately.
Open the Terminal:
Click the terminal emulator icon in the top menu.
Update the Password:
Type the following command and press Enter:
passwd
Enter the current password (kali) when prompted.
Enter and confirm your new secure password.
Verify the Change:
Log out by clicking the top-right menu and selecting "Log Out."
Try logging in again with the updated password to ensure the change was successful.
You’re Ready to Hack!
Congratulations! You now have a fully functional Kali Linux machine ready for use. Here’s a quick recap of what we covered:
Installed VirtualBox.
Downloaded and extracted the Kali Linux virtual machine image.
Imported the image into VirtualBox.
Fixed resolution issues and changed the default password.
With your Kali Linux environment set up, you’re ready to dive into cybersecurity tools and techniques. Remember to always hack ethically, legally, and responsibly.
For more beginner-friendly tutorials and industry-standard tool overviews, check out my cybersecurity learning playlist. Good luck, and have fun!