Installing Kali Linux on a Virtual Machine

🌱 How to start a project?

Do not clone any repository! Just follow instructions below:

Installing Kali Linux on a virtual machine is an excellent way to explore and use this powerful security tool without risking your main operating system. This approach provides a secure and flexible environment that is ideal for both learning and professional applications. In this practice, we will learn how to install one.

Requirements

• Download VirtualBox from Downloads.
• Download Kali Linux from Kali Linux Downloads.

📝 Instructions

Step 1: Installing VirtualBox

VirtualBox is a free and open-source virtualization tool that allows users to run multiple operating systems simultaneously on their computer.

• Run the downloaded installer and follow the installation wizard instructions.
• Once installed, open VirtualBox.

Step 2: Downloading Kali Linux Virtual Machine

• Download from Kali Linux Downloads.

💡 NOTE: You can download an ISO image for a fresh installation or a pre-configured image for VirtualBox (OVA/VBOX). In this practice, we'll use the VBOX image.

• In the virtual machines section, select the VirtualBox version and download the VBOX file (typically comes as a compressed file).

• If the VBOX file is compressed, unzip it using a tool like 7-Zip, WinRAR, or your OS's built-in decompressor.

Step 3: Creating the Virtual Machine

• Go to the folder where you extracted the Kali Linux download and double-click the vbox file. This will start your Kali machine with all configurations ready: machine name, operating system type, CPU, etc.

💡 IMPORTANT: If you are doing this with an OVA file, you should:

• Go to the File option in VirtualBox -> Import Appliance...
• In the window that opens, click on Choose virtual appliance file... and select the OVA file of Kali Linux you downloaded.
• In the next window, you can review and adjust the virtual machine settings (e.g., memory allocation, number of CPUs, etc.). At least 2 GB (2048 MB) is recommended, but 4 GB (4096 MB) or more would be ideal for better performance.

• Once you are satisfied with the settings, click Import/Finish.

Step 4: Starting the Virtual Machine

• Select the Kali Linux virtual machine and click "Start." The VM will boot up, and you'll see the Kali Linux boot screen.
• Use the default credentials to log in: Username: kali Password: kali

Step 5: System Update (Recommended)

Open a terminal and run the following commands to update the system:

1sudo apt update
2sudo apt upgrade -y

All Set! Now you can start using Kali Linux on your virtual machine.