How to Install Kali Linux on Android

Kali Linux, known for its robust penetration testing tools and security features, can be installed on Android devices, transforming your smartphone or tablet into a powerful cybersecurity tool. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of installing Kali Linux on an Android device, providing detailed instructions and necessary commands.

Prerequisites:

Before you begin, ensure your Android device meets the following requirements:

1. Root Access: Most methods of installing Kali Linux on Android require root access. Rooting your device allows you to gain superuser privileges and make changes to the system.
2. Ample Storage: Ensure your device has sufficient storage space for Kali Linux. A minimum of 5GB is recommended.
3. Terminal Emulator: Install a terminal emulator app from the Google Play Store. Termux is a popular choice and will be used in this guide.
4. High-Performance Device: For a smoother experience, it’s advisable to use a high-performance Android device.

Method 1: Using Termux (Chroot Method)

Termux is a powerful terminal emulator for Android that allows users to run a Linux-like environment directly on their mobile devices. While Termux itself doesn’t provide a Kali Linux distribution, it does offer a convenient way to install various Linux packages, including some tools commonly found in Kali Linux.

To install Kali Linux tools on Termux, follow these general steps:

Install Termux

Install the Termux app from the Google Play Store.

Set Up Storage

1. Open Termux and grant storage permissions.
2. Create a directory for Kali Linux:

mkdir ~/kali

Download Kali Linux

Run the following commands to download the Kali Linux rootfs:

cd ~/kali curl -LO https://raw.githubusercontent.com/EXALAB/AnLinux-Resources/master/Scripts/Installer/Kali/kali.sh

Execute the Installation Script

Run the installation script:

bash kali.sh

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Access Kali Linux

To access Kali Linux, run:

./start-kali.sh

This will launch Kali Linux within Termux.

Method 2: Using Linux Deploy (Advanced)

This method involves manual installation using Linux Deploy with more customization options.

Install Linux Deploy

Install the Linux Deploy app from the Google Play Store.

Configure Settings

1. Open Linux Deploy and go to the “Distribution” tab.
2. Select “Kali Linux” from the list.
3. Customize settings such as image size, username, and password in the “Configuration” tab.

Customize the Installation

1. In the “Installation” tab, select “Install” to download the base system.
2. Once the base system is downloaded, uncheck “Install” and check “Custom” to enable customization.
3. Add packages by entering their names in the “Packages” field. For example:

nmap hydra

Install and Start Kali Linux

1. Return to the “Installation” tab and click “Install” again.
2. After installation, click “Start” to launch Kali Linux.

Access Kali Linux

Open the terminal emulator on your Android device. Connect to your Kali Linux instance using SSH:

ssh <username>@localhost -p 2222

Replace <username> with the username you set during the configuration.

Conclusion:

Installing Kali Linux on Android opens up a world of cybersecurity tools and capabilities on your mobile device. Whether you opt for Linux Deploy or Termux, the flexibility and power of Kali Linux can now be harnessed for security testing and ethical hacking directly from your Android device. Always remember to use these tools responsibly and in compliance with relevant laws and regulations.