Kali Linux Cheat Sheet for Security Analysts

📱 Mobile Security Tips

Sarah Chen — iOS Security Specialist

What is Kali Linux?

Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution specifically geared towards penetration testing and security auditing. It comes pre-installed with numerous tools that cater to various information security tasks including penetration testing, security research, computer forensics, and reverse engineering.

Installation

Kali Linux can be installed on a physical machine or run as a virtual machine. You can download the latest version from the official website and follow the installation guide. You can also opt for a live USB option for immediate use without installation.

Basic Syntax

Most commands in Kali Linux are executed from the terminal. The basic syntax typically follows this structure:

COMMAND [options] [arguments]

Discovery

Nmap: Network Scanning

Nmap (Network Mapper) is one of the most versatile network scanning tools.

Flag Description
-sS Perform a SYN scan (stealth scan).
-sV Detect service versions.
-O Enable OS detection.
nmap -sS -sV -O target_ip

Scanning

Netcat: Banner Grabbing

Use Netcat (nc) to grab banners from services running on specific ports.

echo '' | nc target_ip port_number

Exploitation

Metasploit: Exploitation Framework

Metasploit is a versatile framework for developing, testing, and using exploit code.

msfconsole

To use a specific exploit, use:

use exploit/linux/samba/username_map_script

Analysis

Wireshark: Packet Analysis

Wireshark is a network protocol analyzer that lets you capture and interactively browse network traffic.

wireshark

Evasion

Using Proxychains

Proxychains allows you to run any application through a proxy. Edit the configuration file at /etc/proxychains.conf.

proxychains4 

Reporting

Creating Reports with Lynis

Lynis is a security auditing tool for Unix-based systems. Generate reports with:

lynis audit system

Quick Reference Table

Tool Usage
Nmap Network scanning
Metasploit Exploitation
Wireshark Packet analysis
Lynis System auditing

Pro Tips

  • Use nmap -A target_ip for aggressive scanning.
  • Automate reports with Metasploit using commands in resource files.
  • Use filters in Wireshark to analyze specific traffic easily.

Real-World Examples

  • Identifying open ports and services with Nmap: nmap -sV -O -T4 target_ip.
  • Gaining shell access via Metasploit: exploit/multi/handler.
  • Using Wireshark for VoIP analysis with appropriate filters.