How to Install Kali Linux on Laptop or PC – Step-by-Step Ethical Hacking Guide (2025)
Introduction
In this Ethical Hacking Guide, we will show you how to install Kali Linux on your Laptop or PC using simple steps. You will learn what tools you need, how to prepare your system, and how to install Kali Linux correctly without errors.
If you want to start your journey in ethical hacking, penetration testing, or cybersecurity, installing Kali Linux is the first and most important step. Kali Linux is a powerful operating system used by security experts, researchers, and ethical hackers across the world.
This guide is written in simple English, easy to follow, and perfect for beginners and students.
What is Kali Linux?
Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution designed for:
- Ethical hacking
- Digital forensics
- Penetration testing
- Network security
- Reverse engineering
It includes more than 600+ hacking tools, such as:
- Nmap
- Metasploit
- Wireshark
- Burp Suite
- Hydra
- John the Ripper
System Requirements
Before installation, make sure your system meets these requirements:
Minimum Requirements
- 2 GB RAM
- 20 GB disk space
- 64-bit CPU
- USB flash drive (8 GB minimum)
Recommended Requirements
- 4 GB or more RAM
- 40 GB+ disk space
- Intel/AMD 64-bit processor
- Fast USB 3.0
Tools Required
You will need the following tools:
Hardware Tools:
- Laptop or PC
- USB Flash Drive (8 GB or more)
- Stable Internet Connection
Software Tools:
- Kali Linux ISO File
- Rufus or BalenaEtcher (for creating bootable USB)
- WinRAR/7-Zip (optional)
How to Download Kali Linux ISO
Follow these steps:
Step 1:
Visit the official Kali Linux website:
👉 Go to: kali.org/downloads

Step 2:
Choose the version:
- Installer ISO (Recommended)
- 64-bit version
Step 3:
Click Download and wait for the file to complete.
How to Create a Bootable USB
After downloading the ISO file, follow these steps:
Step 1: Install Rufus
Download from:
👉 rufus.ie

Step 2: Plug in USB Drive
Insert USB flash drive into your laptop/PC.
Step 3: Open Rufus
Select the following:
- Device: Your USB drive
- Boot Selection: Kali Linux ISO
- Partition Scheme: GPT or MBR
- Click START
Step 4:
Wait until Rufus completes the process.
Your Bootable USB is ready!
BIOS/UEFI Settings
To start installation, you must boot from the USB.
How to Enter BIOS:
Press one of these keys (varies by brand):
- F2
- F10
- F12
- DEL
Enable/Disable Settings:
- Disable Secure Boot
- Enable USB Boot
- Change Boot Priority → Select USB first
Restart your system.
Install Kali Linux – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Boot into USB
Select Install Kali Linux or Graphical Install (recommended).
Step 2: Choose Language
Select English.
Step 3: Select Location
Choose your country.
Step 4: Configure Keyboard
Choose default keyboard layout.
Step 5: Detect Hardware
Let the installer load drivers.
Step 6: Set Hostname
Enter system name (Example: kali-user).
Step 7: Create User Account
Enter:
- Your Name
- Username
- Password
Step 8: Choose Time Zone
Select your region.
Step 9: Partition Disks
Choose one:
- Guided – use entire disk (Recommended for beginners)
- Manual (Advanced users)
Step 10: Install System
Wait for installation to complete.
Step 11: Install GRUB bootloader
Select Yes → Install on primary disk.
Step 12: Finish Installation
Click Continue → Restart System.
Kali Linux will now boot on your laptop/PC!
Post Installation Setup
1. Update Kali Linux
Open terminal and run:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
2. Install Essential Tools
sudo apt install nmap hydra john git python3-pip
3. Enable Root Access
sudo passwd root
4. Install Guest Additions (optional)
If using VM:
sudo apt install virtualbox-guest-x11
Your Kali Linux is now ready for Ethical Hacking practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (Ethical Hacking Guide)
1. Is Kali Linux safe to install?
Yes, it is safe if you use it for ethical hacking and learning.
2. Can I dual boot Kali Linux with Windows?
Yes, Kali supports dual boot installation.
3. How much RAM is needed for Kali Linux?
Minimum 2 GB, recommended 4 GB or more.
4. Is Kali Linux good for beginners?
Yes, if you follow proper tutorials and practice regularly.
5. Can I install Kali Linux without USB?
Yes, you can install it inside a Virtual Machine (VMware, VirtualBox).
Conclusion (Ethical Hacking Guide)
Installing Kali Linux is the first step toward becoming a professional ethical hacker. With the right setup, tools, and environment, you can practice network attacks, learn penetration testing, and build a strong cyber security career.
If you want more tutorials and step-by-step guidance, follow Axximum Infosolutions for advanced ethical hacking and cyber security lessons.
👉 Comment below if you want tutorials on tools like Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite or Wireshark.





