How to Install Latest Kali Linux on VirtualBox: Step by Step

Want to run Kali Linux but don’t want to risk your main system? VirtualBox lets you run Kali Linux in a safe, isolated environment—perfect for learning, testing, and hacking. Here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to get Kali up and running.

What You Need

• VirtualBox (Free download: virtualbox.org)
• Kali Linux ISO (Get the latest: kali.org/get-kali/)
• At least 4 GB RAM and 20 GB free disk space (more is better)

Step 1: Install VirtualBox

1. Go to virtualbox.org.
2. Download the latest version for your operating system (Windows, Mac, Linux).
3. Run the installer and follow the prompts. Accept default settings.

Step 2: Download Kali Linux ISO

1. Visit kali.org/get-kali/.
2. Download the Installer ISO for your system (64-bit is standard).
3. Verify the download if you want, but you can skip this for basic use.

Step 3: Create a New Virtual Machine

1. Open VirtualBox. Click New.
2. Name: Enter Kali Linux
3. Type: Choose Linux
4. Version: Select Debian (64-bit) (Kali is Debian-based)
5. Click Next.

Step 4: Set Memory (RAM)

• Allocate at least 2 GB (2048 MB) RAM.
  If you have more to spare, bump it up to 4 GB.

Step 5: Create a Virtual Hard Disk

1. Choose Create a virtual hard disk now.
2. Click Create.
3. Select VDI (VirtualBox Disk Image). Click Next.
4. Choose Dynamically allocated. Click Next.
5. Set the size to at least 20 GB (or more if you plan to install tools).
6. Click Create.

Need more disk space later?
You can easily resize your virtual disk—check out How to Enlarge a Virtual Machine’s Disk in VirtualBox or VMware for a step-by-step guide.

Step 6: Mount the Kali ISO

1. Select your new Kali VM in VirtualBox.
2. Click Settings > Storage.
3. Under Controller: IDE, click the empty disc icon.
4. Click the disc icon next to “Optical Drive,” then Choose a disk file.
5. Select the Kali ISO you downloaded.

Step 7: Boot and Install Kali Linux

1. Start the Kali VM.
2. When prompted, select Graphical Install (or just Install).
3. Choose your language, location, and keyboard layout.
4. Set a hostname (default: kali) and domain name (can be left blank).
5. Create a user and set a strong password.
6. Set your time zone.

Step 8: Partition the Disk

• For beginners: Choose Guided – use entire disk.
• Select the virtual disk.
• Pick All files in one partition (recommended).
• Confirm changes and write changes to disk.

Step 9: Finish Installation

1. Wait for the base system and software to install.
2. When asked about GRUB bootloader, install it to the master boot record.
3. When installation is complete, the VM will reboot.

Step 10: Eject ISO and Boot Kali

1. Before the VM restarts, go to Settings > Storage.
2. Remove the Kali ISO from the virtual drive.
3. Boot the VM. Log in with the username and password you created.

Step 11: Update Kali Linux

After logging in:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This ensures you have the latest tools and patches.

You’re Done!

You now have the latest Kali Linux running in VirtualBox. Test tools, learn, or practice without worrying about your main system.

Tip: If you need more features (like drag-and-drop or fullscreen), install the VirtualBox Guest Additions inside Kali.

Questions or issues? Drop a comment below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!