How to Install Kali Linux on VMware Step-by-Step

Kali Linux is one of the most popular Linux distributions used for penetration testing and ethical hacking. It comes preloaded with hundreds of tools used to test network security.

Installing Kali Linux on VMware Workstation allows you to run Kali in a virtual machine on your existing Windows or Linux OS. This is recommended for beginners as it allows you to practice hacking and security tools safely in an isolated environment.

Prerequisites

Before installing Kali on VMware, you need:

• VMware Workstation installed on your computer. The latest version is recommended.

• ISO image for Kali Linux downloaded. Use the 64-bit version.

• At least 25 GB free disk space and 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended).

Step 1 - Create a New Virtual Machine

Launch VMware Workstation on your host OS. Click on Create a New Virtual Machine. This will start the new VM wizard.

• Select a typical setup for a Linux virtual machine

• Choose I will install the operating system later

• Set guest OS as Linux and version as Debian 10 64-bit

• Give your VM a name, set the location for files

• Set disk capacity to at least 25 GB

• Customize hardware if needed

Click Finish to create the empty Kali virtual machine.

Step 2 - Edit Virtual Machine Settings

Before installing Kali, some VM settings need to be verified or changed:

• RAM: 4 GB or higher is recommended for smooth performance

• Processors: 2 or more virtual CPUs/cores

• Network: Use NAT or bridged mode to access the host network

• USB Controller: Enable this to use USB devices within Kali VM

• Display: Increase video memory to 128 MB or more

Under the Options tab, enable Copy/Paste between host and VM.

Step 3 - Install Kali Linux

1. On the VM toolbar, select your Kali virtual machine and click Play virtual machine.

2. Select the Kali ISO you downloaded and click OK. This will mount the ISO.

3. The Kali installer boots up. Select Graphical Install.

4. Choose language, location and keyboard layout.

5. Create a username and password for your Kali Linux login.

6. Partition the virtual disk by selecting Guided - Use Entire Disk.

7. Begin the installation process. This copies Kali files on the VM.

8. After completion, the GRUB bootloader is installed. Click Continue to reboot.

9. On the first boot, run sudo apt update && sudo apt full-upgrade to install the latest packages and security updates.

Kali Linux is now installed and ready to use within your VMware virtual machine.

Next Steps

With Kali installed on VMware, you have a controlled platform to practice penetration testing tools and Linux administration. Some things you can explore next:

• Use multiple preinstalled tools for information gathering, vulnerability scanning etc.

• Customize Kali with your preferred tools, themes, and shortcuts

• Take backups or snapshots before making major changes

• Increase allocated RAM/CPU for resource-intensive tasks

• Learn Linux with Kali training programs like Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PwK)

We hope this beginner tutorial helped you get Kali Linux working smoothly on VMware Workstation. Now gear up to use this excellent ethical hacking distro for your security projects.