How to Run Kali Linux on Android?

Running Kali Linux on an Android device allows you to have a powerful penetration testing environment in the palm of your hand. Here’s how you can set up and run Kali Linux on your Android device.

Prerequisites:

• An Android device (preferably with a good amount of RAM and storage)
• A stable internet connection
• A USB OTG cable (for USB peripherals, optional)
• Rooted or non-rooted device (both methods are described)

Method 1: Using UserLAnd (No Root Required)

UserLAnd is an Android app that allows you to run full Linux distributions, including Kali Linux, without rooting your device.

1. Install UserLAnd
   • Download and install the UserLAnd app from the Google Play Store.
2. Setup Kali Linux
   • Open the UserLAnd app.
   • Tap on the “Apps” tab and select “Kali”.
   • Enter a username, password, and VNC password when prompted.
   • Choose a session type: SSH or VNC. For graphical interface, VNC is recommended.
   • Wait for the setup to complete. This will download the required files.
3. Access Kali Linux
   • If you chose VNC, you’ll need a VNC viewer app (like VNC Viewer by RealVNC).
   • Open the VNC viewer and connect to localhost:51XX (where XX is the session number provided by UserLAnd).
   • Log in using the credentials you set up earlier.

Method 2: Using Termux and AnLinux (No Root Required)

Termux is a terminal emulator for Android, and AnLinux helps to set up a Linux environment within Termux.

1. Install Termux and AnLinux
   • Download and install both Termux and AnLinux from the Google Play Store.
2. Setup Termux
   • Open Termux and update the package list:
     sh

     pkg update && pkg upgrade

3. Install the Required Packages
   • Install essential packages:
     sh

     pkg install wget curl proot tar

4. Setup Kali Linux using AnLinux
   • Open the AnLinux app.
   • Go to the “Dashboard” and select “Kali Linux”.
   • Tap on “Copy” to copy the setup script to your clipboard.
   • Open Termux and paste the script by long-pressing and selecting “Paste”. Press Enter to run it.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
5. Start Kali Linux
   • After installation, start Kali Linux with:
     sh

     ./start-kali.sh

   • You now have a Kali Linux terminal running on your Android device.

Method 3: Using Kali NetHunter (Root Required)

Kali NetHunter is an Android ROM overlay that includes a robust mobile penetration testing platform.

1. Install Kali NetHunter
   • Download the Kali NetHunter image for your specific device from the official NetHunter website.
   • Ensure your device is rooted and has a custom recovery (like TWRP) installed.
2. Flash NetHunter
   • Boot into your custom recovery.
   • Flash the downloaded NetHunter zip file.
   • Reboot your device.
3. Setup Kali NetHunter
   • Open the NetHunter app on your device.
   • Complete the initial setup.
4. Use Kali NetHunter
   • You now have a full-featured Kali Linux environment integrated into your Android device.

Tips and Tricks:

• Stay Updated: Regularly update both your Android apps and Kali Linux packages to ensure security and functionality.
• Battery Management: Running a full Linux distro can be resource-intensive, so keep an eye on your battery usage.
• Use External Peripherals: For a better experience, consider using a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, or connect via USB OTG.

By following these methods, you can run Kali Linux on your Android device, turning it into a portable penetration testing toolkit. Whether you choose to go with a non-rooted or rooted method depends on your device and personal preference.