Do you want to perform penetration testing with your smartphone without the hassle of carrying a laptop around? Then, you can install Kali Linux on your Android device, and we’ll show you how. Although, bear in mind that some features and resources may be limited compared to the Kali desktop version.
Requirements
Before we dive into the installation process, here are the requirements you need to prepare:
- An active Internet connection
- Download and install F-Droid APK from the official F-Droid website.
- Install Termux from F-Droid or GitHub
- Install Hacker’s Keyboard from Google Playstore.
- Install the Nethunter Kex app available on Nethunter Store
- Enough storage space on your device
Step 1: Install F-Droid
F-Droid is a free and open-source Android application that allows you to install other applications not available on the Google Play Store. To install F-Droid, download and install F-Droid APK from the official F-Droid website.
Step 2: Install Termux from F-Droid
Although Termux is available on Google Play Store, we highly recommend downloading it from F-Droid or GitHub since the play store version is no longer receiving updates, and you will most likely run into errors when using the app.
Step 3: Install Nethunter Kex App
The Nethunter Kex application will enable you to access the Desktop Interface for Kali Linux on your Android device. Download and install the APK file from the Nethunter Store website.
Step 4: Install Hacker’s Keyboard
Install Hacker’s Keyboard by Klaus Weidner from Google Playstore. It brings the keyboard’s functionality on your laptop to your phone with arrow keys, tab keys, ctrl keys, and esc keys.
Step 5: Enable Hacker’s Keyboard
After installing, launch the Settings app on your phone, locate the “Manage Keyboard” option, and enable the Hacker’s keyboard.
Step 6: Setup the Environment
Launch Termux on your phone and update and upgrade the system using the command below. This command is essential to install Kali Linux on your Android device.
To get access to the filesystem outside the current session, run the command below:
termux-setup-storage
You will see a message like “Allow Termux access photos, media, and files on your device.” Click Allow.
Step 7: Fetch and Run the Installer Script
To install Kali Linux on your Android device, you need to download the installer script and run it. First, download the script with the command below (open the link).
To make the script executable, run the command below.
chmod +x install-nethunter-termux
Lastly, run the script with the command below.
./install-nethunter-termux
Wait for the script to finish, and the installation will be complete.
FAQs
What is Kali Linux?
Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution that is mainly used for advanced penetration testing, forensic analysis, and security auditing. It comes pre-installed with a wide range of security tools, making it an ideal operating system for security professionals and enthusiasts.
Can I install Kali Linux on my Android phone without rooting it?
Yes, you can install Kali Linux on your Android phone without rooting it. However, you’ll need to install a few third-party apps such as F-Droid, Termux, Nethunter Kex app, and Hacker’s Keyboard to make it work.
Is it legal to install Kali Linux on my Android phone?
Yes, it is legal to install Kali Linux on your Android phone. However, you should only use it for legal purposes, such as penetration testing and security auditing. Using Kali Linux for illegal activities could lead to serious consequences.
Can I use Kali Linux on my Android phone for hacking?
Kali Linux is mainly used for penetration testing and security auditing, and not for hacking. Using Kali Linux for illegal activities such as hacking could lead to serious legal consequences. It is essential to use Kali Linux only for ethical purposes and with the necessary permissions and authorizations.
Can I use Kali Linux on my Android phone for everyday tasks?
While it is possible to use Kali Linux on your Android phone for everyday tasks, it is not recommended. Kali Linux is a specialized operating system designed for security professionals and enthusiasts. Using it for everyday tasks could be cumbersome and impractical.
Conclusion
With these simple steps, you can now install Kali Linux on your Android device and start performing penetration testing tasks without a laptop. Bear in mind that some features and resources may be limited, and the installation process may take some time, depending on your internet connection.
