20 Things You MUST DO After Installing Kali Linux

Introduction

This tutorial covers the essential steps to take immediately after installing Kali Linux, which is a powerful operating system used for penetration testing and security auditing. Whether you're new to Kali or a seasoned pro, these steps will help you optimize your setup and enhance your security practices.

Step 1: Update and Upgrade

• Open the terminal.
• Run the following commands to ensure your system is up to date:

  sudo apt update
  sudo apt upgrade -y
  

• This ensures you have the latest security patches and software versions.

Step 2: Install Additional Tools

• Kali Linux comes with many tools, but you might want to install more.
• Use the following command to search for and install tools:

  sudo apt install <tool-name>
  

• Replace <tool-name> with the desired tool, such as nmap or burpsuite.

Step 3: Set Up Non-Root User

• For security reasons, it's advisable to create a non-root user.
• Execute the command to add a new user:

  sudo adduser <username>
  

• Replace <username> with your chosen username.

Step 4: Add User to Sudoers

• Grant the new user sudo privileges:

  sudo usermod -aG sudo <username>
  

Step 5: Change Default Passwords

• Change the default passwords for root and any other users:

  sudo passwd root
  

Step 6: Configure Network Settings

• Ensure your network settings are optimized for your environment.
• Use ifconfig or ip a to check your network interfaces and configure as necessary.

Step 7: Enable SSH

• Install and enable SSH for remote access:

  sudo apt install openssh-server
  sudo systemctl enable ssh
  sudo systemctl start ssh
  

Step 8: Configure Firewall

• Set up a firewall using ufw (Uncomplicated Firewall):

  sudo apt install ufw
  sudo ufw enable
  

• Configure specific rules as needed.

Step 9: Install VirtualBox Guest Additions

• If running Kali in VirtualBox, install Guest Additions for better performance:
  • Insert the Guest Additions CD image from the VirtualBox menu.
  • Run the installer from the terminal.

Step 10: Configure Timezone

• Set the correct timezone:

  sudo timedatectl set-timezone <Region>/<City>
  

Step 11: Install Graphics Drivers

• Install necessary graphics drivers for better performance:

  sudo apt install <graphics-driver>
  

Step 12: Secure GRUB Bootloader

• Edit the GRUB configuration file to enhance security:

  sudo nano /etc/default/grub
  

• Add password protection and other security measures.

Step 13: Remove Unnecessary Services

• Disable services that are not needed to reduce potential attack vectors:

  sudo systemctl disable <service-name>
  

Step 14: Encrypt Hard Drive

• Use LUKS for encrypting your hard drive:

  sudo cryptsetup luksFormat /dev/sdX
  

Step 15: Configure Automatic Updates

• Enable automatic updates for better security:

  sudo apt install unattended-upgrades
  

Step 16: Enable AppArmor or SELinux

• Choose a security framework to enforce security policies:
  • For AppArmor:

    sudo systemctl enable apparmor
    

  • For SELinux, additional configuration may be required.

Step 17: Install Tor

• For anonymous browsing, install Tor:

  sudo apt install tor
  

Step 18: Customize Bash Shell

• Personalize the command line experience:
  • Edit the .bashrc file:

    nano ~/.bashrc
    

  • Add custom aliases and functions.

Step 19: Disable Root SSH Login

• For added security, prevent root from logging in via SSH:
  • Edit the SSH config file:

    sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config
    

  • Set PermitRootLogin no.

Step 20: Review Documentation and Tutorials

• Familiarize yourself with the tools and features of Kali Linux by reviewing the documentation and online tutorials.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you will enhance the security and functionality of your Kali Linux installation. Regularly updating and maintaining your system is crucial for effective penetration testing and security auditing. Consider exploring additional resources and tutorials to further your skills in cybersecurity.