Procedure Guide: Installing the Latest Version of Kali Linux in
Oracle VirtualBox
Introduction
This guide walks you through downloading and installing the latest version of Kali Linux in a Virtual
Machine (VM) using Oracle VirtualBox. Kali Linux is a robust penetration testing and security
auditing platform widely used by cybersecurity professionals.
Prerequisites
1. Oracle VirtualBox Installed: Download and install the latest version of Oracle VirtualBox
from virtualbox.org.
2. System Resources: Ensure your system has sufficient resources for the VM:
o At least 4GB RAM (8GB recommended).
o Adequate storage space (20GB or more for the VM).
3. Internet Connection: Required to download Kali Linux and updates.
Step 1: Download Kali Linux ISO
1. Visit the official Kali Linux download page at kali.org/downloads.
2. Select the appropriate ISO image:
o For VirtualBox, use the Installer ISO or the VirtualBox Image (prebuilt VM image for
convenience).
o Ensure you select the version suitable for your system architecture (64-bit is
recommended).
3. Save the ISO file to your computer.
Step 2: Create a New Virtual Machine in VirtualBox
1. Open Oracle VirtualBox and click New.
2. Fill in the following details:
o Name: Kali Linux (or any name you prefer).
o Type: Linux.
o Version: Debian (64-bit).
3. Click Next.
Allocate Resources:
1. Memory Size: Allocate at least 2GB (2048MB) RAM. For better performance, allocate 4GB
or more if your system allows.
2. Hard Disk:
o Select Create a virtual hard disk now and click Create.
o Choose VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image) and click Next.
o Select Dynamically allocated and click Next.
o Allocate at least 20GB of storage (more is recommended).
o Click Create.
Step 3: Attach Kali Linux ISO to the VM
1. Select the newly created VM and click Settings.
2. Navigate to the Storage section:
o Under Controller: IDE, click the empty disk icon.
o Click the disk icon next to Optical Drive and select Choose a disk file.
o Browse to the location of your Kali Linux ISO and select it.
3. Click OK to save the settings.
Step 4: Configure Network Settings
1. Go to the Settings of your VM.
2. Select Network and ensure Adapter 1 is enabled and set to NAT (default setting).
3. Optionally, set it to Bridged Adapter if you need the VM to access the local network directly.
Step 5: Start the VM and Install Kali Linux
1. Select your VM and click Start.
2. The VM will boot from the attached ISO file. Follow the installation steps:
o Choose Graphical Install for an easy-to-use interface.
o Select your language, region, and keyboard layout.
o Configure network settings when prompted.
o Set up a username, password, and hostname.
o Partition the disk:
▪ Choose Guided - use entire disk for simplicity.
▪ Select the partitioning scheme and confirm.
o Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
3. When installation completes, remove the ISO file:
o Go to Devices > Optical Drives > Remove disk from virtual drive.
o Restart the VM.
Step 6: Update Kali Linux
After installation, update the system to ensure you have the latest packages and tools.
1. Open a terminal in Kali Linux.
2. Run the following commands:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
3. Reboot the VM if necessary:
sudo reboot
Optional: Install Guest Additions
To improve VM performance and enable features like shared folders and clipboard sharing:
1. Go to Devices > Insert Guest Additions CD Image in VirtualBox.
2. Mount the CD and install the Guest Additions:
sudo apt install -y virtualbox-guest-x11
3. Reboot the VM.
Conclusion
You have successfully installed the latest version of Kali Linux in Oracle VirtualBox. You can now
explore its tools and features in a safe and isolated virtual environment.
References:
• Kali Linux Documentation
• VirtualBox Documentation
