Kali Linux is one of the most popular Linux distributions used for ethical hacking and penetration testing. With its vast collection of security and hacking tools, Kali allows you to assess the security of networks and systems.
While Kali is usually installed on computers, you can also install it on Android devices to turn your phone or tablet into a mobile hacking toolkit. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install Kali Linux on Android:
Prerequisites
Before installing Kali on Android, you need:
An Android device with ARM processor architecture. Kali is optimized for ARM devices like smartphones and tablets.
A minimum of 5GB storage space for the Kali image and tools. A microSD card can provide additional storage space.
Android 6.0 Marshmallow or newer. Older versions may not work properly.
A terminal emulator app like Termux to access the Linux environment.
Download the Kali NetHunter Image
Kali NetHunter is a version of Kali specifically optimized for Android. To get started:
Go to the Kali Downloads page and download the Kali NetHunter for the ARM image.
Once downloaded, transfer the image file to your Android device storage. A file manager app can help with the transfer.
Install NetHunter Rootless
NetHunter Rootless allows you to install Kali without root access:
Open the Termux app and enter the following command to install git:
apt update && apt install git
Clone the NetHunter Rootless git repository:
git clone https://gitlab.com/kalilinux/nethunter/build-scripts/android-rootless.git
Navigate to the newly created directory:
cd android-rootless
Run the installation script:
./install-nethunter-termux
Accept all prompts during the installation. This sets up the Kali Chroot environment.
The process may take 10-15 minutes to complete depending on your device.
Start Kali Linux
Once NetHunter is installed:
Run
nethunter
to open Kali in a chroot container within Termux.Login with root as username and net hunter as password when prompted.
You now have a fully functional Kali Linux installed on Android!
Install Additional Tools
To install extra hacking tools:
Update Kali repo database:
apt update
Install tools like Nmap, sqlmap etc:
apt install nmap sqlmap
Run the tools from within the Kali Linux chroot.
Using the Kali NetHunter Environment
All Kali Linux commands and tools now work in the Termux terminal.
Type
exit
to leave the Kali chroot and return to the Android shell.Files between Android and Kali environments can be transferred using the Termux home directory in
/data/data/com.termux/files/home
.
So in just a few easy steps, you can install the powerful Kali penetration testing distro on Android without root. The mobile version transforms your device into a handy hacking toolbox!