How to Install Kali Linux on VirtualBox

Kali Linux is a powerful Linux distribution used for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and security research. Installing Kali Linux in a virtual environment using VirtualBox allows you to run it alongside other operating systems without the need for dual-booting or a dedicated machine.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to install Kali Linux on VirtualBox.

Step 1: Download and Install VirtualBox

If you don’t have VirtualBox installed yet, you can download it from the official VirtualBox website:

1. Go to the VirtualBox Downloads page.
2. Download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
3. Install VirtualBox by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 2: Download the Kali Linux ISO

Next, download the Kali Linux ISO image from the official Kali Linux website:

1. Choose the Kali Linux ISO that fits your system’s architecture (e.g., 64-bit).
2. Download the image to your computer.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine in VirtualBox

1. Open VirtualBox and click New to create a new virtual machine.
2. Name the VM (e.g., “Kali Linux”) and set the following options:
   • Type: Linux
   • Version: Debian (64-bit)
3. Allocate at least 2GB of RAM (4096MB is recommended for better performance).
4. Create a new virtual hard disk, and allocate at least 20GB of storage.

Step 4: Configure the Virtual Machine

Before starting the VM, configure some additional settings:

1. Go to the Settings of the VM.
2. Under System, ensure that Enable EFI is unchecked (unless you’re using UEFI boot).
3. Under Storage, click on the empty Optical Drive, and choose the Kali Linux ISO you downloaded earlier.
4. Under Network, set Adapter 1 to NAT or Bridged Adapter, depending on your networking needs.

Step 5: Start the Installation

1. Start the virtual machine by clicking Start.
2. When the Kali Linux installer starts, choose Graphical Install.
3. Follow the installation prompts:
   • Select your language and region.
   • Configure your network settings (you can skip this if you want to configure networking later).
   • Set a root password.
   • Choose Guided – Use Entire Disk for disk partitioning.
4. Let the installer complete the process. Once installation is finished, restart the VM.

Step 6: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions (Optional)

To improve the performance of Kali Linux in VirtualBox, you can install the VirtualBox Guest Additions, which provide better graphics support, shared clipboard functionality, and shared folders.

1. In the Kali Linux VM, update the package list:
   sudo apt update
2. Install the kernel headers:
   sudo apt install -y linux-headers-$(uname -r)
3. In the VirtualBox menu, go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD image.
4. Run the installation script:
   sudo /media/cdrom/VBoxLinuxAdditions.run
5. Restart the VM to apply the changes.

Conclusion

Installing Kali Linux on VirtualBox is an excellent way to run a penetration testing environment without the need for dedicated hardware. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll have Kali Linux up and running on your virtual machine, ready for ethical hacking, penetration testing, or security research. VirtualBox Guest Additions will enhance your experience by providing improved graphics, file sharing, and other useful features.