How Do You Install Kali Linux on Windows 10?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

If you’re passionate about cybersecurity, ethical hacking, or simply want to explore one of the most powerful penetration testing platforms, installing Kali Linux on your Windows 10 machine is an exciting step forward. Kali Linux, renowned for its comprehensive suite of security tools, offers a robust environment for security professionals and enthusiasts alike. Integrating it seamlessly with Windows 10 means you can leverage the strengths of both operating systems without the need for separate hardware or complex dual-boot setups.

This article will guide you through the process of setting up Kali Linux on Windows 10, opening doors to a versatile and efficient workflow. Whether you’re a beginner eager to dive into ethical hacking or an experienced user looking to streamline your toolkit, understanding the installation options and requirements is crucial. From virtual machines to Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), there are multiple pathways to get Kali Linux up and running on your system.

By exploring these methods, you’ll gain insight into the benefits and limitations of each approach, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs. Get ready to enhance your cybersecurity skills and expand your technical horizons with Kali Linux on Windows 10.

Enabling Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)

To install Kali Linux on Windows 10, the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) must be enabled. WSL allows you to run a Linux environment directly on Windows, without the overhead of a traditional virtual machine. There are two versions of WSL: WSL 1 and WSL 2, with WSL 2 offering improved performance and full system call compatibility.

To enable WSL, follow these steps:

  • Open PowerShell as Administrator. You can do this by right-clicking the Start button and selecting “Windows PowerShell (Admin).”
  • Run the following command to enable the WSL feature:

“`powershell
dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart
“`

  • Next, enable the Virtual Machine Platform feature, necessary for WSL 2:

“`powershell
dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart
“`

  • Restart your computer to apply these changes.

After reboot, set WSL 2 as the default version by executing the following command in PowerShell:

“`powershell
wsl –set-default-version 2
“`

This ensures that any new Linux distributions installed will use WSL 2 by default.

Installing Kali Linux from Microsoft Store

Once WSL is enabled, Kali Linux can be easily installed from the Microsoft Store:

  • Open the Microsoft Store app on Windows 10.
  • Search for “Kali Linux.”
  • Select the official Kali Linux distribution published by Offensive Security.
  • Click Get or Install to download and install the distribution.

Upon completion, launch Kali Linux by clicking Launch in the Microsoft Store or typing `kali` in the Start menu.

The first time Kali Linux runs, it will complete the installation process and prompt you to create a UNIX username and password. This user will be your default user for the Kali environment.

Configuring Kali Linux Environment

After installation, configuring your Kali Linux environment improves usability and security. Consider the following setup steps:

  • Update Package Lists: Refresh the package repositories to ensure the latest software is available.

“`bash
sudo apt update
“`

  • Upgrade Installed Packages: Install the latest versions of all installed packages.

“`bash
sudo apt upgrade -y
“`

  • Install Common Tools: Kali Linux comes pre-installed with many tools, but additional utilities may be useful:
  • `curl` and `wget` for downloading files.
  • `vim` or `nano` for text editing.
  • `net-tools` for network diagnostics.

Install them using:

“`bash
sudo apt install curl wget vim net-tools -y
“`

  • Set Up Default User Permissions: Ensure your user has sudo privileges for administrative tasks.
  • Configure Network Settings: WSL integrates with Windows networking, but you may need to adjust firewall or VPN settings depending on your use case.

Using Kali Linux on Windows 10 with WSL

Kali Linux runs as a terminal application inside Windows 10 when installed via WSL, allowing seamless interaction with Windows files and applications.

Key aspects to keep in mind:

  • Accessing Windows Files: Your Windows filesystem is mounted under `/mnt/c/` inside Kali Linux. For example, your C drive is accessible at `/mnt/c/`.
  • Running Graphical Applications: WSL 2 supports GUI applications if you install an X server on Windows, such as Xming or VcXsrv. Configure the DISPLAY environment variable accordingly:

“`bash
export DISPLAY=$(grep nameserver /etc/resolv.conf | awk ‘{print $2}’):0
“`

  • Interoperability: You can invoke Windows executables from within Kali Linux by calling them with the `.exe` extension, e.g., `notepad.exe`.
  • Performance: WSL 2 uses a lightweight virtual machine, providing near-native Linux performance with low resource overhead.
Feature WSL 1 WSL 2
Linux Kernel Translation Layer Real Linux Kernel
File System Performance Lower Higher
Full System Call Compatibility No Yes
Memory Usage Lower Higher
Networking Shared with Windows Virtualized Network Adapter

By understanding these differences, users can optimize their Kali Linux experience on Windows 10 and leverage the full potential of WSL 2 for penetration testing, security research, and development.

Preparing Your Windows 10 System for Kali Linux Installation

Before installing Kali Linux on Windows 10, it is crucial to ensure your system is properly prepared. Kali Linux can be installed via Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), dual-boot configuration, or virtualization. The following steps focus on using WSL, which is the most straightforward method for running Kali Linux alongside Windows 10.

Start by enabling the Windows Subsystem for Linux feature and Virtual Machine Platform, both necessary for WSL 2, which offers improved performance and full system call compatibility.

  • Open PowerShell as an administrator.
  • Run the following commands to enable the required features: 
    dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart
dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:VirtualMachinePlatform /all /norestart
  • Restart your computer to apply changes.
  • After reboot, set WSL 2 as the default version by running: 
    wsl --set-default-version 2

Ensure your Windows 10 version supports WSL 2; it requires Windows 10 Version 2004 or higher. You can check your version by running winver in the Run dialog (Win + R).

Downloading and Installing Kali Linux from Microsoft Store

Installing Kali Linux through the Microsoft Store is the simplest method for Windows 10 users with WSL enabled.

  • Open the Microsoft Store application on your Windows 10 device.
  • Search for Kali Linux.
  • Select the official Kali Linux distribution maintained by Offensive Security.
  • Click on Get or Install to download the distribution.
  • Once installed, launch Kali Linux from the Start Menu or by typing kali in Command Prompt or PowerShell.

On first launch, Kali Linux will complete installation and prompt you to create a new UNIX username and password. This user will be your default user within the Kali environment.

Configuring Kali Linux and Updating Packages

After installation, it is important to update the Kali Linux system to ensure all packages are current and secure.

  • Open the Kali Linux terminal.
  • Run the following commands to update the package lists and upgrade installed packages: 
    sudo apt update
sudo apt full-upgrade -y
  • Optionally, install additional tools or packages using the apt install command.

For example, to install the Kali Linux metapackages that include various penetration testing tools, use:

sudo apt install kali-linux-default

Regularly updating your Kali Linux environment ensures you have the latest features and security patches.

Accessing Kali Linux GUI Applications on Windows 10

By default, Kali Linux installed via WSL runs in a command-line environment. To run GUI applications, additional configuration is necessary.

  • Install a Windows-compatible X server, such as VcXsrv or Xming.
  • Launch the X server on Windows before starting any Kali Linux GUI application.
  • In the Kali Linux terminal, configure the display environment variable: 
    export DISPLAY=$(cat /etc/resolv.conf | grep nameserver | awk '{print $2}'):0
  • Install the necessary GUI packages if not present: 
    sudo apt install kali-desktop-xfce
  • Run GUI applications by typing their commands in the Kali terminal.

Alternatively, starting with Windows 11 and some recent Windows 10 updates, WSLg enables native GUI support without needing an external X server.

Alternative Method: Installing Kali Linux Using VirtualBox

If you prefer a full Kali Linux installation isolated from your Windows environment, using virtualization software such as Oracle VirtualBox is a viable option.

Step Description Commands/Actions
Download VirtualBox Obtain the latest version of VirtualBox for Windows https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads
Download Kali Linux ISO Download the official Kali Linux ISO image for installation https://www.kali.org/get-kali/
Create a New Virtual Machine Configure VM settings for Kali Linux
  • Memory: Minimum 2048 MB
  • Expert Perspectives on Installing Kali Linux on Windows 10

    Dr. Elena Martinez (Cybersecurity Researcher, Global Tech Institute). Installing Kali Linux on Windows 10 using the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) is a practical approach for security professionals who require seamless access to penetration testing tools without dual-booting. It is essential to ensure that WSL 2 is enabled for optimal performance and compatibility with Kali’s extensive toolkit.

    James O’Connor (Senior Systems Engineer, SecureNet Solutions). When installing Kali Linux on Windows 10, leveraging virtualization platforms such as VMware or VirtualBox offers a more isolated and secure environment compared to WSL. This method allows users to replicate real-world network scenarios safely and maintain system stability while conducting advanced security assessments.

    Priya Singh (Information Security Analyst, CyberSafe Corp). For beginners, the Windows Store installation of Kali Linux simplifies the setup process significantly. However, users must be aware of the limitations regarding hardware access and networking capabilities in this environment, which can affect certain penetration testing functionalities.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What are the prerequisites for installing Kali Linux on Windows 10?
    You need to enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), have a 64-bit version of Windows 10, and ensure your system supports virtualization technology.

    How do I enable Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) on Windows 10?
    Open PowerShell as an administrator and run the command `dism.exe /online /enable-feature /featurename:Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux /all /norestart`, then restart your computer.

    Can I run Kali Linux on Windows 10 without dual booting?
    Yes, by using WSL or virtualization software like VirtualBox or VMware, you can run Kali Linux without setting up a dual boot system.

    How do I install Kali Linux from the Microsoft Store?
    Search for “Kali Linux” in the Microsoft Store, select it, and click “Get” to download and install. After installation, launch Kali Linux and complete the initial setup.

    Is it necessary to update Kali Linux after installation on Windows 10?
    Yes, running `sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade` ensures you have the latest security patches and software updates for optimal performance.

    What are common issues when installing Kali Linux on Windows 10 and how can I fix them?
    Common issues include WSL not enabled, virtualization disabled in BIOS, or outdated Windows version. Verify system requirements, enable virtualization, and update Windows to resolve these problems.
    Installing Kali Linux on Windows 10 can be efficiently achieved through the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), enabling users to run a full-fledged Kali environment without the need for dual booting or virtualization. The process involves enabling WSL on Windows 10, installing the Kali Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store, and configuring the environment to suit penetration testing and security analysis needs. This method provides seamless integration with the Windows file system and tools, enhancing productivity and convenience for cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts.

    Key takeaways include the importance of ensuring that your Windows 10 system is updated to support WSL 2, which offers improved performance and compatibility. Additionally, users should be familiar with basic Linux commands and Kali Linux tools to maximize the benefits of this setup. Proper configuration, such as updating packages and installing necessary utilities, is essential to maintain a secure and efficient working environment.

    Overall, installing Kali Linux on Windows 10 via WSL represents a practical and accessible approach for users seeking to leverage Kali’s powerful capabilities without the complexities of managing separate partitions or virtual machines. This integration fosters a versatile workflow, allowing users to harness the strengths of both Windows and Kali Linux in a unified platform.

    Author Profile

    Avatar
    Harold Trujillo
    Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

    Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.

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