Step-by-Step Guide- How to Install Kali Linux on VirtualBox for Secure Hacking Practice

How to Install Kali Linux on VirtualBox

Installing Kali Linux on VirtualBox is a straightforward process that allows you to run the popular penetration testing distribution in a virtual environment. This method is beneficial for those who want to experiment with Kali Linux without installing it on their physical hardware. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to install Kali Linux on VirtualBox, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox

Before you can install Kali Linux, you need to have VirtualBox installed on your system. You can download the latest version of VirtualBox from the official website (https://www.virtualbox.org/). Choose the appropriate version for your operating system and follow the installation instructions provided.

Step 2: Download Kali Linux ISO

Next, you need to download the Kali Linux ISO file from the official website (https://www.kali.org/downloads/). Kali Linux is available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, so make sure to download the correct one for your system.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

Once VirtualBox is installed, open the application and click on “New” to create a new virtual machine. Enter a name for your virtual machine, select the operating system as “Linux,” and choose “Ubuntu (64-bit)” or “Linux (32-bit)” depending on the version of Kali Linux you downloaded.

Step 4: Allocate Memory to the Virtual Machine

In the next window, allocate memory to your virtual machine. It is recommended to allocate at least 2GB of RAM, but you can adjust this based on your system’s capabilities and the resources required by other applications running on your computer.

Step 5: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

Select “Create a virtual hard disk now” and choose “VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image)” as the file type. Select “Dynamically allocated” as the storage on physical hard disk option to save space, or choose “Fixed size” if you prefer. Allocate the desired size for your virtual hard disk, keeping in mind that Kali Linux requires at least 20GB of disk space.

Step 6: Install Kali Linux

Insert the Kali Linux ISO file into your system’s optical drive or mount the ISO file as a virtual CD/DVD drive within VirtualBox. Select the Kali Linux virtual machine you created and click on “Start.” Choose the “Start up from CD/DVD-ROM” option and press “Enter.”

Step 7: Follow the Installation Process

The Kali Linux installation process will begin. Follow the on-screen instructions to partition your virtual hard disk, select your keyboard layout, and set up your user account. Once the installation is complete, restart your virtual machine.

Step 8: Install Additional Software

After restarting, you may need to install additional software to ensure that your Kali Linux virtual machine has all the necessary tools and libraries. Open a terminal and run the following command to update your package lists:

“`
sudo apt update
“`

Next, install the required software packages using the following command:

“`
sudo apt install -y git build-essential
“`

This will install Git and build-essential tools, which are essential for compiling and building software on Kali Linux.

Conclusion

Installing Kali Linux on VirtualBox is a simple and effective way to run the distribution in a virtual environment. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly set up a Kali Linux virtual machine and start exploring its vast array of penetration testing tools and resources.