kali
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Table of Contents
🐱💻 Installing Kali Linux on Desktop or Laptop
Kali Linux is a Debian-based distribution designed for penetration testing, digital forensics, and ethical hacking. It comes preloaded with hundreds of security tools and is maintained by Offensive Security.
🧰 System Requirements
| Component | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | 1 GHz | 2+ GHz multi-core |
| RAM | 2 GB | 8 GB or more |
| Storage | 20 GB | 50 GB SSD/NVMe |
| GPU | Any | Modern GPU for GPU-based tools |
| Internet | Optional | Recommended for updates and tool sync |
🌐 Download Kali Linux
Visit the official Kali Linux website:
https://www.kali.org/get-kali/
Choose the appropriate ISO:
- Installer ISO (for full installation)
- Live ISO (for testing without installing)
- NetInstaller (minimal install with online packages)
🔧 Prepare Installation Media
Use a USB flashing tool:
- 🧊 Balena Etcher
- 🛠️ Rufus (Windows)
- 🧰 GNOME Disks (Linux)
Flash the ISO to a USB stick (at least 8 GB).
⚙️ BIOS/UEFI Setup
Before booting:
- Disable Secure Boot
- Enable UEFI Boot Mode
- Set USB as first boot device
💻 Install Kali Linux
1. Boot from USB
Insert the USB stick and reboot. Select Graphical Install or Install.
2. Configure Installer
Follow the guided steps:
- Select language, region, and keyboard
- Configure network (optional)
- Set hostname and domain (optional)
- Create user and password
3. Partition Disks
Choose:
- Guided – use entire disk (recommended for beginners)
- Manual (for dual-boot or custom setups)
4. Select Software
Choose desktop environment:
- XFCE (default)
- GNOME, KDE, etc.
Select additional tools or install full Kali suite.
5. Install GRUB Bootloader
Install GRUB to your primary disk to enable booting Kali.
6. Finish and Reboot
Remove USB stick and reboot into Kali Linux.
🛠️ Post-Install Tips
- Update system: `sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y`
- Launch tools from Applications → Kali Linux
- Use `kali-linux-headless` for server setups
📚 Resources
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