Kali Linux is used to detect all kinds of errors in the security system of devices, networks and other operating systems. That is why basically the tool is positioned as a hacker OS. But in reality they most often use it for security tests. Nothing prevents you from downloading all the necessary software and doing this in other distributions, but Kali comes with a set of all programs and utilities and is more adapted to run quickly without leaving any traces.
Kali Linux is a further development of the Backtrack 5 system. In general, there are not many differences in installing other distributions based on Linux and Kali. But still they are, and therefore it is necessary to dwell on each aspect.
Like all Unix-like systems, Kali is based on the Linux kernel. Thanks to this, the structure of the system itself is very similar to other Linux distributions. If you had experience with them, then there should not be any problems with the installation.
Many users believe that Kali is just for “hacker games.” Yes, it is focused on searching for vulnerabilities in other systems, but it is quite comfortable to use it for everyday tasks, for example, Ubuntu or Mint. Unless the setup takes a little longer.
Preparing a USB drive
To create Live USB with Kali you need to select a flash drive with a capacity of at least 4 GB. In principle, the USB drive does not need special preparation. It is enough to format it in FAT32 format. The installer will do the rest: markup and format in the ext4 system. It is also worth noting that for a faster and more comfortable installation, it is recommended to use a USB 3.0 drive.
Creating a Live USB Flash Drive
First you need to download the image itself from Kali Linux OS. Installing on a USB flash drive is pretty quick, provided that you have USB 3.0 support. Otherwise, the process may be delayed, especially if the storage medium is old. Next, you need to download the Unetbootin utility, which is used to create Live USB with any Linux distribution. In general, there are a lot of programs for creating bootable flash drives , but this one is distributed free of charge and is most convenient to use. Using Unetbootin, upload the Kali Linux installer to the USB flash drive. The instructions for working with the utility are very simple. You need to select the distribution, then specify the storage device and start recording.
After the successful completion of the installation procedure, we get Live USB with the Kali system. Now it can be launched without installation. But to reveal the full potential of the system, it can also be fully installed on the hard drive or the USB flash drive itself.
USB installation
To install the system, we need a flash drive with a capacity of at least 16 GB. It is possible and less, but the indicated volume is optimal. We insert the USB flash drive into the USB slot, reboot the computer and select “FDD-HDD loading” at boot. After that, the launch of Live Kali Linux USB will begin. In the menu that appears, select the item Graphical Install. This is the process of installing the system using the graphical shell.
Then it is proposed to choose the installation language, time zone and keyboard layout. Select everything you need and click Next. After that, the installer will try to connect to the Internet and download the missing files. Click "OK" and download. But it depends on the version of the system, often the programs are completely autonomous and do not require access to the network.
Correct USB Drive Markup
If everything is done correctly, the installer will offer you to choose the method of installing the system on disk. You can, of course, choose the automatic option, but since you need to install the system on a USB flash drive, and not on a hard drive, we select the manual layout. The section selection window opens. Select the partition with the USB drive and click "Add Partition". You also need a place for the system itself. A minimum size of 5 GB is recommended. Formatting is necessary in the ext4 file system - this is the most acceptable option. Set the mount point "/". This is the symbol of the system partition. In general, installing Kali Linux on a USB flash drive is very similar to installing Backtrack 5, which is not surprising. In fact, this is the same distribution.
After that, you need to select a section for the page file. In the case of installing on a USB flash drive, it is advisable to select the size of the RAM device on which the installation is performed. For example, on a computer with 4 GB of RAM, the swap partition should be at least 8 GB. That is exactly what is required for Kali Linux. Installing on a USB flash drive is the same for all Linux operating systems. You do not need to select a formatting system, just in the sub-menu you need to click on the "Swap Section".
Since we use flash memory, the mount point “/ home” is optional, you can skip this point.
As for the GRUB bootloader, you cannot do without it. But for him, it’s enough to select a piece of 2-3 MB in size.
Installation Continued
After markup, we are prompted to enter the username and computer. Please note, unlike other Linux systems where the default password is root, Kali Linux has the toor password. After that, copying files begins. This can take from 10 to 20 minutes, it all depends on the power of the computer.
After successfully copying the files, the system will offer a reboot for the full use of all functions. We agree with pleasure. After that, we enjoy fully working Kali Linux. Installing on a USB flash drive, as we can see, is very similar to other OSs of the Ubuntu and Mint family. From now on, if necessary, you can not be limited to Live-launch and not bother with a long installation on your hard drive.
Instead of a conclusion
Now you can enjoy Kali Linux. Installation on a USB flash drive took literally half an hour. However, do not forget that although the system is designed for all kinds of security tests, you need to conduct them exclusively on your equipment, otherwise you can run into problems with the law, even if your actions did not imply malicious intent.