How to Install Virtualization Software and Set Up Kali Linux 

Hey you're just starting your journey in ethical hacking, setting up a virtual lab is the smartest way to practice. This guide will walk you through everything you need—from installing virtualization software to running Kali Linux or Parrot OS, two of the most popular Linux distributions used by cybersecurity professionals.

Install Virtualization Software

Virtualization software allows you to run other operating systems inside your current OS without affecting your main setup.

Recommended Tools:

• Oracle VM VirtualBox (Free and beginner-friendly)
• VMware Workstation Player (Also free for personal use)
• We’ll use VirtualBox in this guide for simplicity.

 How to Install VirtualBox:

VirtualBox is a free and open-source virtualization application created by Oracle.

It enables users to operate various operating systems 

(such as Kali Linux, Ubuntu, and Windows) on their primary operating system without the need for dual booting

For Windows

1. Go to the official VirtualBox website

2. Download the Windows hosts version.

3. Run the installer and follow the setup wizard (default settings are fine).

4. Once installed, open VirtualBox.

 For macOS:

1. Download the OS X hosts version from the same site.

2. Open the .dmg file and follow the installation steps.

3. Launch VirtualBox from your Applications folder.

For Linux:

You can usually install it using:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install virtualbox

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Import the Virtual Machine (OVA File)

If you downloaded an .ova file:

1. Open VirtualBox.

2. Go to File > Import Appliance.

3. Browse to the downloaded .ova file.

4. Click Next > Import.

5. Wait for the process to complete, then start the VM.

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Manual Installation (Optional)

If you downloaded the ISO file instead of OVA, here’s how to manually set it up:

Create a New Virtual Machine:

1. In VirtualBox, click New.

2. Name it (e.g., “Kali Linux”) and set:

   • Type: Linux

   • Version: Debian (64-bit)

3. Set Memory (RAM) to at least 2048 MB (4096 MB recommended).

4. Create a Virtual Hard Disk (VDI) of 20GB+.

Load the ISO

1. Go to Settings > Storage.

2. Under Controller: IDE, click the empty disk icon.

3. Choose the ISO file you downloaded.

4. Start the VM