Kali Linux

Kali Linux
Name	Kali Linux
Developer	Offensive Security
Family	Linux
Source model	Open source
Released	13 March 2013
Latest release version	2024.2
Latest release date	14 May 2024
Kernel type	Monolithic (Linux kernel)
Ui	Xfce, GNOME, KDE Plasma
License	Various, primarily GPL
Working state	Current
Predecessor	BackTrack

Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution designed for advanced Penetration testing and Digital forensics. Developed and maintained by the security training firm Offensive Security, it is the direct successor to the popular BackTrack project. The distribution is pre-installed with hundreds of specialized security tools and is widely used by security professionals, ethical hackers, and researchers for assessing network security.

Overview

Kali Linux is engineered as a comprehensive toolkit for security auditing, providing a robust platform for tasks ranging from Vulnerability assessment to Wireless network analysis. It adheres strictly to the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard and utilizes a customized Linux kernel patched for injection. The project is funded and supported by Offensive Security, which also offers renowned certifications like the Offensive Security Certified Professional.

Features

The distribution is distinguished by its commitment to a Rolling release model, ensuring users have access to the latest security tools and Linux kernel updates. It supports a wide array of ARM-based devices, including the Raspberry Pi and Chromebooks, facilitating portable testing platforms. Key features include a customizable, Debian-compliant environment, extensive wireless device support, and a development process that is entirely Open source.

Tools

Kali Linux includes a vast repository of security applications, such as the network scanner Nmap, the web vulnerability scanner Burp Suite, and the password cracking tool John the Ripper. For wireless attacks, it provides Aircrack-ng and Kismet, while tools like Metasploit and SQLmap automate exploitation and SQL injection testing. The Wireshark packet analyzer and the Autopsy digital forensics platform are also integral components.

History

The project was publicly released on March 13, 2013, as a complete, Debian-compliant rebuild of its predecessor, BackTrack. This transition was led by Mati Aharoni and Devon Kearns of Offensive Security, aiming to address technical limitations and improve stability. Since its inception, Kali Linux has undergone significant development, including a major shift to the Xfce desktop environment and the introduction of streamlined ISO image builds for various platforms.

Usage and applications

Primarily utilized for Penetration testing in authorized security assessments, Kali Linux enables professionals to identify vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications. It is a standard tool in curricula for security certifications like the EC-Council's Certified Ethical Hacker and is employed in Digital forensics investigations by law enforcement agencies such as the FBI. Its use is strictly governed by legal frameworks and ethical guidelines to prevent unauthorized access.

Distribution and availability

Kali Linux is freely available for download from its official website, with images for x86-64 systems, ARM devices like the Raspberry Pi, and cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services. It can be run as a Live CD, installed on hardware, or used within virtualization software like VMware and VirtualBox. The project also maintains a dedicated Docker container and provides pre-built images for the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

Category:Linux distributions Category:Computer security software Category:Digital forensics Category:Debian-based distributions