Simplifying Tech for You

Step-by-Step Kali Linux Installation Guide

Follow these 10 steps to transform your Raspberry Pi into a Kali Linux beast. We’ll use the Raspberry Pi Imager for simplicity, as it’s beginner-friendly and officially supported.

Step 1: Download the Latest Kali Linux ARM Image

Head to the Kali Linux ARM downloads page and grab the image for your Raspberry Pi model. For the Pi 5, you’ll need a specific image (e.g., kali-linux-2025.1-raspberry-pi-5-xfce-arm64.img.xz) since older images won’t work.

• Pi 2, 3, 4, 400, Zero: Choose between 32-bit or 64-bit (32-bit is more tested).
• Pi 5: Look for the archived 2023.3 or newer image for Pi 5 compatibility.
• Verification (Optional but Recommended): Verify the image’s integrity using GPG to ensure it’s legit. Import Offensive Security’s public key and check the signature. Instructions are on the Kali website.

Tip: The .xz file is compressed to save space. You don’t need to extract it manually; modern imaging tools handle it automatically.

Step 2: Install Raspberry Pi Imager

Download the Raspberry Pi Imager from the official Raspberry Pi website. It’s available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Install it by following the on-screen prompts.

• Linux Users: Run sudo apt install rpi-imager in a terminal for a quick install.
• Windows/Mac: Double-click the installer and follow the wizard.

Step 3: Insert Your MicroSD Card

Pop your microSD card into your computer’s card reader or a USB adapter. Make sure it’s empty or you’re okay with wiping it, flashing will erase all data.

Warning: Double-check you’re selecting the SD card and not your computer’s hard drive. We’ve all heard horror stories of accidental wipes!

Step 4: Flash the Kali Linux Image

1. Choose Device: Select your Raspberry Pi model (e.g., Pi 4, Pi 5). This ensures compatibility.
2. Choose OS: Scroll to “Other specific-purpose OS” > “Kali Linux.” Pick the version matching your Pi (e.g., 64-bit for Pi 4/5).
3. Choose Storage: Select your microSD card from the list. Double-check the drive letter or name.
4. Use Ctrl + Shift + X to bring up the imager’s settings. You can add your own username and password here or disable it to use kali’s default credentials.
5. Write: Click “Next” or “Write.” Decline OS customization for now (we’ll configure after booting).
6. Wait: The imager will write and verify the image. This takes 5–15 minutes, depending on your card’s speed.

Once you see “Write Successful,” eject the SD card safely.

Step 5: Boot Your Raspberry Pi

Insert the microSD card into your Pi’s slot. Connect your peripherals (if using):

• Monitor: Via micro-HDMI (Pi 4/5) or HDMI (older models).
• Keyboard/Mouse: USB or Bluetooth.
• Power: Plug in the power supply last to boot.

If you’re going headless (no monitor), just connect the power and an Ethernet cable or set up Wi-Fi (see Step 7). The Pi will boot Kali automatically, showing a login screen after 1–2 minutes.

Note: The first boot may take longer as Kali sets up the filesystem. If you see a yellow lightning bolt on-screen, your power supply is underpowered, swap it for a better one.

Step 6: Log In

At the login screen, if you didn’t add your own credentials earlier, use the default credentials:

• Username: kali
• Password: kali

Security Alert: Change the default password immediately (Step 8) to keep your Pi secure.

Keyboard Gotcha: Kali defaults to a US keyboard layout. If you’re using a non-US keyboard, you might need to type “kqli” instead of “kali.” Fix this in settings later.

Step 7: Configure Network (Optional)

Kali needs an internet connection for updates and tools. Choose one:

• Ethernet: Plug in an Ethernet cable, and Kali should connect automatically if your network has DHCP.
• Wi-Fi: Click the network icon in the top-right corner, select your network, and enter the password.
• Headless Wi-Fi: Before ejecting the SD card, add a wpa_supplicant.conf file to the first partition. On another Linux system, run wpa_passphrase YOURNETWORK > wpa_supplicant.conf, enter your password, and copy the file.

To confirm connectivity, open a terminal and run ping google.com. If you see replies, you’re online!

Step 8: Secure Your Pi

Before diving into hacking, lock down your Pi:

1. Change Password: Open a terminal and run passwd. Enter the default password (kali), then type a new, strong password twice.
2. Update SSH Keys: For secure remote access, regenerate SSH keys:

   sudo rm /etc/ssh/ssh_host_*
   sudo dpkg-reconfigure openssh-server
   sudo service ssh restart

3. Enable SSH (Optional): For headless access, run sudo systemctl enable ssh and sudo systemctl start ssh. Access your Pi via ssh kali@<Pi’s IP address>. Find the IP with ifconfig (look for inet under wlan0 or eth0).

Pro Tip: Use a password manager to generate and store a complex password. Don’t stick with “kali123” unless you want to be the easiest target at the hackathon.

Step 9: Update Kali Linux

Keep your tools and system fresh by updating Kali:

sudo apt update && sudo apt full-upgrade -y

This can take 30–60 minutes, depending on your Pi’s specs and internet speed. It ensures you have the latest security patches and tool versions.

Step 10: Explore Kali’s Tools

You’re ready to roll! Kali’s desktop (XFCE by default) is packed with tools under the “Applications” menu, organized by category (e.g., Information Gathering, Vulnerability Analysis).

Try these to start:

• Nmap: Scan networks for devices and open ports. Run nmap 192.168.1.0/24 to scan your home network.
• Aircrack-NG: Test Wi-Fi security. Use airmon-ng start wlan0 to monitor wireless networks (requires a compatible USB Wi-Fi adapter for packet injection).
• Metasploit: Exploit vulnerabilities in a controlled environment (set up a test VM first).

Pro Tip: Check out the Kali Linux Documentation for tool guides!