Kali Linux is an open-source, Debian-based Linux distribution that contains several hundred tools targeted towards various information security tasks (see Kali Linux Tools for more info). Below is information for the following installation options:
- Option#1 – Workstation Based Kali Linux (under virtualbox)
- Option#2 – AWS Cloud Based Kali Linux (access with Remote Desktop)
Option #1 – Workstation Based Kali Linux
Below are some references and install videos for creating a free open source personal cyber lab with Kali Linux installed in a Virtualbox environment on your personal workstations:
References / Pre-reqs:
- Kali Linux – free open source Linux distribution with many pre-installed and pre-configured cyber tools.
- Virtualbox – free open source software from Oracle used to run guest operating systems in a virtual enviroment.
- Google Chrome SSH add-on (optional)
- Video: ‘How To Install VirtualBox and Kali Linux for Penetration Testing and CyberSecurity‘.
- Article: ‘Installing Kali Linux on VirtualBox: Quickest & Safest Way‘
- Youtube: HakTip – An Intro to Virtual Machines – HakTip (08:07)
- Recommended Configuration: Windows 10, OS or Linux ; 4 Gbg memory and 30 gbg hard disk (or more)
- Warning: Some operating system may prevent the download and require additional research.
Option #2 – Cloud Based AWS Kali Linux
AWS offer a light Kali Linux image that can run in a free tier (assuming light usage) and accessed from the student’s browser using the Microsoft Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) or Secure Shell (SSH).
References / Prereqs:
- What is Kali Linux ?
- How to Install and Deploy Kali Pentesting Tool Suite in AWS)
- Web Page: How to install Kali Linux on AWS EC2 Instance
- Youtube: How to Install and Deploy Kali Pentesting Tool Suite in AWS – Fast and FREE
- Youtube: Kali 2019.2 on AWS EC2
- SSH (Secure Shell): needed to setup the AWS Kali instance (see SSH options)
- RDP (Remote Desktop): Option for access to the AWS Kali instance. (See RDP options).
- Warning: Closely monitor usage to prevent receiving unexpected AWS charges.