How to Install Kali Linux on a New HDD Using a USB Drive: A Detailed Guide

Installing Kali Linux on a new hard drive (HDD) using a USB drive involves several straightforward steps. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth installation experience.

Requirements

To get started, you will need the following:

USB Drive: At least 8 GB in capacity to ensure it can hold the Kali Linux ISO and boot data. Kali Linux ISO: Download the latest version from the Kali Linux official website. Rufus (for Windows) or Etcher (for macOS/Linux): Tools to create a bootable USB drive. A Computer: This will be where you will perform the installation.

Steps to Install Kali Linux

1. Create a Bootable USB Drive

For Windows (using Rufus)

Download Rufus: Rufus Download. Insert USB Drive: Connect your USB drive to your computer. Open Rufus: Launch the software. Select USB Drive: Choose your USB drive from the device list. Select ISO File: Click on the ... button and locate the Kali Linux ISO file. Partition Scheme: For BIOS, choose MBR; for UEFI, choose GPT. File System: Use FAT32. Start: Click on the START button to create the bootable USB drive.

For macOS/Linux (using Etcher)

Download Etcher: Etcher Download. Install and Open Etcher: Install the software if necessary and launch it. Select Image: Choose the Kali Linux ISO file from your file system. Select Target: Choose your USB drive from the list. Flash: Click on Flash! to create the bootable USB drive.

2. Boot from USB Drive

Insert the USB Drive: Connect the bootable USB to the computer where you want to install Kali Linux. Restart the Computer: Reboot the system. Access Boot Menu: During startup, press the appropriate key to access the boot menu. Common keys include F2, F10, F12, or ESC, depending on your computer. Select USB Drive: Choose the USB drive from the boot options.

3. Install Kali Linux

Boot Menu: Once you select the USB drive, you’ll see the Kali Linux boot menu. Choose Installation Type: Select “Graphical Install” for a GUI or “Install” for a text-based interface. Select Language: Choose your preferred language for the installation process. Configure Network: Set up your network settings as prompted. Partition Disks: Choose “Guided - use entire disk” to let Kali take over the entire HDD, or “Manual” to partition the drive yourself. Install the Base System: The installer will copy files to the HDD. Configure Package Manager: Follow the prompts to set up the package manager. Install GRUB Bootloader: Choose to install GRUB on your primary HDD, typically at /dev/sda. Finish Installation: Once the installation is complete, the system will prompt you to remove the installation media and reboot.

4. Post-Installation

Remove USB Drive: After the installation finishes, safely remove the USB drive. Boot into Kali Linux: Your computer should now boot into Kali Linux. If the system prompts you to enter the root password, use the toor credentials unless you changed the password during installation.

Conclusion

You now have Kali Linux installed on your new HDD! From here, you can begin exploring its features and tools. If you encounter any issues, feel free to seek assistance in the Kali Linux community or on online forums.