The best Linux distributions for hacking and penetration testing
Discover the best Linux distributions that can help you learn hacking and penetration testing.
Share your opinions: Which Linux hacking distributions have you tried? Suggest any distributions we may have missed in the comments!
1. Kali Linux
Summary: Kali Linux is the most popular Linux distribution for ethical hacking and penetration testing, developed by Offensive Security.- Basis: Debian
- Features:
- Wide range of penetration testing tools
- A periodic release form to keep tools up to date
- Support for various devices and device platforms
- Comprehensive documentation and an active community
- Use: They can be easily installed in VirtualBox within Windows to practice hacking right away.
2. BackBox
Summary: BackBox is an Ubuntu-based distribution designed for penetration testing and security assessment.- Features:
- A dedicated software repository containing the latest stable versions of analysis toolkits and ethical hacking tools
- Moderate design with XFCE desktop environment
- Fast, efficient and customizable experience
- Supportive community
3. ParrotOS
Summary: ParrotOS is a powerful penetration testing alternative developed by Frozenbox Network.- Basis: Debian
- Features:
- Cloud-friendly environment with anonymous online experience and encrypted system
- MATE desktop environment
- Available in Security, Home, and Architecture editions
- Variants for VirtualBox, VMware and others
4. BlackArch
Summary: BlackArch is a penetration testing and security research distribution built on Arch Linux.- Features:
- A warehouse with thousands of tools organized into various collections
- Specialized offering for penetration testing
- Can be set up on top of existing Arch Linux installations
5. Samurai Web Testing Framework
Summary: Samurai Web Testing Framework is dedicated to web penetration testing and is supported by VirtualBox and VMware.- Basis: Ubuntu
- Features:
- The best open source tools for testing and attacking websites
- A pre-configured wiki for storing penetration testing information
6. Pentoo Linux
Summary: Pentoo Linux is a Gentoo-based distribution, focused on security and penetration testing.- Features:
- LiveCD with continuity support (i.e. any changes made in the live environment will be available on the next boot if you use a USB stick)
- Custom tools and kernel features
- XFCE desktop environment
- Available as an add-on for existing Gentoo users
7. CAINE
Summary: CAINE is a distribution designed for digital forensics.- Features:
- Wide range of tools to analyze and diagnose systems
- Fully focused on digital forensics
8. Network Security Toolkit
Summary: Network Security Toolkit is a living operating system built on Fedora that provides a variety of open source network security tools.- Features:
- Advanced web interface for system/network management and monitoring
- Supports professionals and network administrators
9. Fedora Security Spin
Summary: Fedora Security Spin is designed for security review and testing, and can be used for educational purposes.- Features:
- Supports students and teachers as they practice or learn security methods: Information security, web application security, forensic analysis, and more
- Supports students and teachers as they practice or learn security methods: Information security, web application security, forensic analysis, and more
10. ArchStrike
Summary: ArchStrike (formerly ArchAssault) is a project built on Arch Linux for penetration testing and professionals.- Features:
- Includes thousands of tools and applications categorized into certified package sets
- Combines the best aspects of Arch Linux with additional tools for penetration testing and cybersecurity
Other distributions
Although the distributions mentioned above are highly suitable for hacking and penetration testing, there are newer options like Athena OS that can be reviewed.Share your opinions: Which Linux hacking distributions have you tried? Suggest any distributions we may have missed in the comments!