What Is Kali Linux, and Should You Use It?
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What Is Kali Linux, and Should You Use It?
Hacking

By Richard Dezso
13 hours ago
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Lucas Gouveia / How-To Geek | PrimSeafood / Shutterstock
Key Takeaways
Kali Linux is a Debian-based distribution packed with hundreds of tools for penetration testing and computer forensics.
Kali Linux is not for casual users; it requires knowledge and experience to use its powerful tools effectively.
If you're new to Linux, consider Ubuntu or Linux Mint for everyday use before exploring Kali Linux.
Kali Linux is a name that often surfaces in conversations about ethical hacking and penetration testing. But what exactly is it, and is it the right for you? Let’s explore what makes Kali Linux stand out and whether it fits your needs.
My Intro to Kali Linux
Let me take you back to when I first discovered Kali Linux. I was beginning to learn cyber security, trying to figure out which direction I wanted to take, and everywhere I turned, people were talking about Kali.
So, I did what any curious tech enthusiast would do—I installed it, fired it up, and was immediately hit with a barrage of tools with names like “BeEF,“ “Bettercap,” “Hashcat,” "Metasploit," and “Nmap,” It felt like I’d just opened Pandora’s box.
Kali is a powerful tool that requires a solid understanding of what you're doing. But what exactly is Kali Linux, and why does it have such a reputation as a top choice for ethical hackers and penetration testers?
What Is Kali Linux?
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Kali Linux, previously known as BackTrack Linux, is an open-source, Debian-based Linux distribution developed by Offsec. It is designed specifically for penetration testing and is packed with hundreds of tools for computer forensics, reverse engineering, and vulnerability detection.
Because Kali is built on Debian, it’s incredibly stable and secure. This Debian base means that Kali benefits from a vast repository of software and a familiar package management system. If you’ve used other Debian-based distributions like Ubuntu, you’ll find that Kali isn’t too tough to navigate. It’s definitely not designed for Linux beginners, but if you’re up for the challenge, there’s a lot you can learn.
Offsec has ensured that Kali isn’t just about the tools; it’s about giving you a free, open-source, and always-evolving platform. Every piece of software is available for tweaking, and Kali’s commitment to open-source development means the entire Git tree is accessible to anyone interested.
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