Kali Linux Explained: Everything You Need to Know

Kali Linux (formerly known as BackTrack Linux) is an open-source, Debian-based Linux distribution aimed at advanced Penetration Testing and Security Auditing. Kali Linux contains several hundred tools targeted towards various information security tasks, such as Penetration Testing, Security Research, Computer Forensics and Reverse Engineering. It is a multi platform solution, accessible and freely available to information security professionals and hobbyists.

It was released on the 13th March 2013 as a complete, top-to-bottom rebuild of Back Track Linux, adhering completely to Debian development standards. Kali Linux is an Debian-derived Linux distribution which has been maintained by Offensive Security. It was created by Mati Aharoni and Devon Kearns. Kali Linux is a specially developed operating system for network analysts, penetration testers, or individuals who engage in cybersecurity and analysis.

Kali Linux’s official website is Kali.org. It gained fame after being used in the Mr. Robot series. It is not intended for general usage; rather, it is intended for use by professionals or individuals who are familiar with Linux/Kali. Check out the official guide to learn how to install Kali Linux.

Official Website

Why use kali linux?

If you’re interested in penetration testing or cybersecurity, you’ll need some specific tools for performing some tasks, which come pre-installed and configured in Kali Linux so you may use them right away. If you want to check the vulnerabilities on a website or learn about security flaws in any application, Kali Linux is a perfect choice.

Many individuals believe that Kali is a hacking or cracking programme for social media accounts or web servers. This is one of the most common misconceptions regarding Kali Linux. Kali Linux is simply another Debian distribution that includes a number of networking and security tools. It is a weapon for training or self-defense, not for attacking others.

Kali Linux was created primarily for professionals. It has been created for anyone interested in Penetration Testing, Cyber Security, or Ethical Hacking. It is a powerful tool that, if not used properly, can result in losses.

Pros:

• It has 600+ Penetration testing and network security tools pre-installed.
• It is completely free and open source. So you can use it for free and even contribute for its development.
• It supports many languages.
• Great for those who are intermediate in linux and have their hands on Linux commands.
• Could be easily used with Raspberry Pi.

Cons:

• It is not advised for individuals who are new to linux and wish to learn the operating system.(Because it is aimed for penetration)
• It’s a little slower.
• Some software may fail to function properly.

Professional penetration testers, cybersecurity specialists, ethical hackers, and people who understand how to use Kali Linux should use it. In other words, if you are familiar with Linux and its terminal commands, architecture, system, and file management, you will be OK with Kali Linux. And if you aren’t, we suggest that you start with the Ubuntu distribution to learn about Linux, and then give Kali Linux a shot after some practise.

This will not only save your precious time surfing the internet, but it will also make you more comfortable using it. However, if you are a professional penetration tester or are studying penetration testing, Kali Linux is the best toolbox.

Kali Linux system requirements

In terms of system requirements, installing Kali Linux does not require much; the Kali Linux website recommends the following for the default desktop version:

• 2GB of RAM
• 20GB of disk space
• CD/DVD drive or USB drive for OS installation
• Internet access