Best OS for Hacking (2026 Ultimate Guide)

Cyber security is ever-changing. Picking the best OS for hacking is vital for ethical hackers and security pros.

This article delves into why choosing a pre-built hacking OS is better than setting one up—especially for beginners. We look at different OSs, like Kali and Parrot, and will delve deep into each hacking operating system by discussing their unique features, maintenance, and highlights.

Learn about the benefits of these hacking OSs and which meet specific system needs for virtual machines, live boot environments, and bare-metal installations.

So, if you’re ready to start, we are too. Let’s go!

Table Of Contents

Why Use a Hacking Operating System?
Kali Linux
Parrot Security OS
CommandoVM
BackBox
BlackArch
SamuraiWTF
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Use a Hacking Operating System?

Using pre-built hacking systems like Kali, BlackArch, and similar ones can be more useful and straightforward than building your hacking system from scratch. These OSs save time with pre-set tools and settings and are all designed for ethical hacking. Creating your own custom system can be challenging and time-consuming, especially for beginners.

Plus, hacking systems must keep up-to-date with cyber security changes. Pre-built OSs come with regular updates from a dedicated team/community of seasoned professionals solving this issue.

Also, these systems are pre-tested; Kali and ParrotOS, for example, offer compatibility with various hardware setups.

Another plus of pre-made systems is that groups of cyber security professionals contribute their knowledge, resulting in an upgraded, more reliable, and ready-to-use toolset. This makes this kind of OSs a handy tool for anyone in ethical hacking, whether they are beginners or experienced users.

Kali Linux

Kali Linux is a strong, multi-use hacking operating system. It's open-source and made specifically for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and checking network security. Created by OffSec, it's now a global team project where many security pros play a part. Kali gives users a complete kit with loads of pre-set tools, sorted into groups like information gathering, vulnerability analysis, and wireless attacks.

Regular updates mean Kali always has the most recent hacking tools. You can install it on virtual machines, live boot systems, or even bare-metal systems. It's easy to use and has a large online community for support, resources, and tutorials. This makes it suitable for both newbies and seasoned users.

Kali Purple is also notable. This specialized Kali Linux operating system variant focuses on advanced wireless penetration testing and security assessments, combining both the red and blue team aspects of Kali.

Kali Linux's dedication to accessibility, improvement, and community involvement solidifies its top-ranking position worldwide as a hacking OS.

System Requirements

Hard Disk: A minimum of 20 GB hard disk space for installation, depending on the version.
RAM: A minimum of 2 GB RAM for i386 and AMD64 architectures.
CPU: A minimum of an Intel Core i3 or an AMD E1 processor for good performance.

Pros

Active Forum Community: Kali Linux stands out for its live forum community. This space is a hub for sharing wisdom, solving problems, and trading real-life stories. This collaborative environment enhances support beyond official documentation.

Customization Options: Kali Linux allows users to customize their installations by adding or removing tools based on individual preferences and project requirements. This level of customization ensures a tailored experience for security professionals.

Integration with Cloud Services: Kali Linux easily integrates with various cloud services, enabling users to conduct security assessments and penetration testing on cloud-based infrastructure. This capability reflects Kali's adaptability in modern computing environments.

Cons

Inclusion of Tools over Stability: Kali Linux, being a tool-centric distribution, might sometimes prioritize the inclusion of the latest tools over ensuring absolute stability. This emphasis on keeping tools up-to-date may sometimes lead to tools being still in testing phases or not yet fully stable.

Minimal Mobile Support: Kali Linux focuses mostly on desktop and server environments. Official mobile support is limited to only Kali NetHunter, so using Kali on mobile devices like smartphones or tablets could be difficult, especially for beginners.

Parrot Security OS

Commonly called ParrotOS, Parrot Security OS is a Linux system built for privacy and security-focused tasks, which is rapidly gaining popularity thanks to being the main OS for HackTheBox and CEH labs/exam. The Parrot Project team develops and looks after it, giving cyber security pros and fans what they need. It's known for being light and handy in different tech settings. You can use it in virtual systems, live boot setups and regular installs.

What sets ParrotOS apart is its dedication to user privacy and remaining unnoticed online. It offers AnonSurf for safe web usage and hiding your network. There's a select set of pre-installed pen testing tools included. The Parrot Project regularly releases updates to ensure users have the latest tools and security patches.

On the technical side, ParrotOS has a user-friendly design created to be efficient. It's smooth for everyone, from beginners to professional security users. The distribution promotes teamwork and contributions through forums and guides, aiming for a team-focused atmosphere.

But its uses go beyond just ethical hacking. ParrotOS also serves as an educational system, giving users a managed setting to build their cyber security knowledge. Simply put, ParrotOS is a practical hacking OS. It includes the main values of safety, privacy, and easy access in the world of information security and penetration testing.

System Requirements

Hard Disk: A minimum of 400MB of hard disk space for installation is required.
RAM: Parrot OS can run on machines with 512 MB of RAM, but the project's creators strongly recommend at least 2 GB.
CPU: A minimum CPU equivalent to an Intel Core i3-2100 for good performance.

Pros

Security-Enhanced Kernel: ParrotOS incorporates a security-hardened kernel, enhancing the system's resilience against various attacks. This adds to a strong defense, especially important in cyber security situations.

Hidden Communications: ParrotOS includes tools for anonymized communication, such as the integration of the Tor network. This means users can browse, chat online, and much more without revealing their identity.

Containerization and Sandboxing: ParrotOS has containerization and sandboxing. These tools let users test risky applications safely. It isolates the processes, which lowers the chance for unexpected problems during secure checks and testing.

Cons

Resource Intensive for Low-End Systems: Though intended to be lightweight, ParrotOS can still stress systems with modest resources, particularly when operating tools that require a lot of power. This might affect how well the system works and limit its use on less powerful machines.

Learning Curve for Niche Tools: The addition of unique tools focused on cryptocurrency safety and understanding blockchain may add to the difficulty for users not used to these particular fields. To master these tools, extra training and a deeper understanding of cryptocurrency methods is necessary.

Limited Official Package Repository: In comparison to some popular Linux versions, ParrotOS may have fewer official program options. Users might have to look to external program lists or install some software manually, which could cause compatibility or security issues.

CommandoVM

Commando VM is a unique hacking system by Mandiant, a leading cyber security firm. It's a Windows-based system built specifically for penetration tests and red teaming in Windows environments and Active Directory. This system has a handpicked set of security tools for spotting and taking advantage of vulnerabilities in Windows systems. Commando VM smoothens the path for security experts working in exclusively Windows environments by supplying a whole set of tools focused on checking the security of Windows networks, apps, and services.

Mandiant’s work on Commando VM ensures it follows the newest cyber security trends and top practices. Its tools work across a large range of functions, from network scanning and exploitation/post-exploitation, to data extraction. Commando VM is easy to use and has a direct interface, perfect for new and experienced users.

System Requirements

Hard Disk: A minimum of 80 GB of hard disk space for installation is required, but more is recommended.
RAM: CommandoVM runs on machines with at least 4 GB of RAM.
CPU: Any medium-level CPU capable of running Windows 10 smoothly will do the job.

Pros

Integrated Threat Intelligence Feed: Commando VM benefits from an integrated threat intelligence feed, providing real-time information on emerging cyber security threats, vulnerabilities, and attack patterns.

Link with FireEye Commercial Solutions: Mediant FireEye created Commando VM to work smoothly with its other commercial products. This results in a well-connected and functional cyber security network.

Windows Endpoint Security Test Support: Commando VM shines in testing the security of Windows systems and Active Directory. It gives extensive evaluations of Windows machines against different cyber threats

Cons

Non-Windows Limitations: Commando VM might not have as many tools as those using Linux. This could limit its use for those who work with other systems.

Hardware: Some Commando VM tools can use a lot of resources. This might slow things down for those using older or less powerful hardware.

Community Support Shortages: Compared to well-known open-source operating systems for hacking, fewer people use Commando VM. That could mean less help from others online, fewer guides, and fewer updates from the community. This could slow down the resolution of problems and addition of new features.

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BackBox

BackBox Linux is a project of the BackBox Team. It's designed for testing computer systems and finding security holes. It’s based on Ubuntu, with an easy-to-use interface and built-in ethical hacking tools. The Team consistently enhances the system's abilities and effectiveness. Its small size makes it ideal for many settings, like virtual machines or live boot sessions.

Teamwork among security experts is a core focus of BackBox. It offers numerous tools that promote cooperation and sharing of information. Fresh tools and features are regularly added through updates.

What sets BackBox Linux apart is its flexibility. It caters to both newcomers and pros seeking a fresh platform for pentesting. The operating system comes with automation and scripting tools to simplify tasks. Therefore, BackBox Linux is a fantastic asset for individuals aiming to boost computer and network security toolkit (NST).

System Requirements

Hard Disk: A minimum of 10 GB of disk space is needed just for installation.
RAM: BackBox Linux needs no less than 1 GB of RAM.
CPU: Almost any modern (even low-level) 32-bit or 64-bit CPU.

Pros

Automated Ethical Hacking Toolkit: BackBox Linux features an automated ethical hacking toolkit streamlining common security tasks. These tools run scripts and automatic operations, making security evaluation quick and easy.

Task Automation: BackBox Linux excels in automating routine security tasks, enhancing the efficiency of any security assessments.

Multi-User Collaboration Tools: Besides its cooperative aspects, BackBox Linux comprises unique tools for group work during security assessments. These resources promote open communication, prompt cooperation, and collective review, building a productive team of security experts.

Cons

Tool Stability: BackBox Linux, known for having the newest tools, may sometimes have some tools still being tested or not yet stable. This might occasionally cause problems during security assessments. So, users must be careful and look for different tools to carry out specific jobs.

Limited Official Documentation: BackBox might not have as many official guides as other famous hacking OSs. Users might need to use resources created by other community members, which could make it harder to find instructions for certain tools and configurations.

BlackArch

BlackArch Linux is a specialized penetration testing and security assessment distribution. Behind this OS is BlackArch Project, a team focused on constant improvement. Specifically made for ethical hackers and cyber security experts, it’s packed with over 2,600 tools ready to be used. The BlackArch Project keeps this open-source project fresh, with updates matching changes in the cyber security scene.

This OS, lean and flexible in design, adapts to many situations. Built on the Arch Linux framework, BlackArch offers users a continuous flow of tools and updates, thanks to a rolling release strategy. The makeup of its ideology invites users to add tools, detect and report problems, and have a hand in the OS's future decisions.

BlackArch is all about simplicity with a clean interface and a minimalist design. With a focus on hacking tools and being community-driven, BlackArch stamps its identity as a handy kit in the realm of security tests and ethical hacking.

System Requirements

Hard Disk: A minimum of 10 GB of disk space is needed for installation, but at least 15 GB are suggested.
RAM: A minimum RAM requirement to run it is 6GB.
CPU: A 4-core CPU from the last six years is required.

Pros

Efficient Package Management: BlackArch Linux uses Arch Linux's package handler, Pacman. It’s fast and functional, and you can easily add, update, and remove packages. Pacman is simple and dependable, making things smooth for the user.

Integration with Arch User Repository (AUR): BlackArch Linux works well with Arch User Repository (AUR). It expands even more the software repository, giving users more choices to pick from than the default packages. With this, users can use more tools and software, making this distribution much more customizable.

Active Community Support: BlackArch has a robust, active community where users can use forums, mailing lists, and other resources. The community is cooperative, providing help quickly, discussing problems, and sharing knowledge among security professionals and enthusiasts.

Cons

Regular Updates Might Break Things: BlackArch Linux, being a rolling release distribution, gets frequent updates. This means you always get new features and security fixes. However, this also might make things a bit hard since the system and its compatibility needs constant checking.

Dependency Challenges: Installing and managing additional tools on BlackArch might sometimes pose dependency challenges, requiring users to troubleshoot or manually address compatibility issues.

Limited Official Documentation: BlackArch may have fewer official guides compared to other popular hacking OSs, requiring users to rely more on community-created resources for guidance and troubleshooting.

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SamuraiWTF

Samurai Web Testing Framework, or SamuraiWTF, is freely available software purpose-built for checking the safety of web apps. The SamuraiWTF team, operating through a community setup, constructs and perfects it. The framework incorporates helpful resources and codes, all selected for web pen testing and ethical hacking. It's based on a Linux system and houses unique tools meant for different stages of a webapp assessments, reconnaissance, discovery, exploitation, and post-exploitation.

SamuraiWTF includes popular web-app pen testing tools like OWASP Zap and Burp Suite, which help form a complete tactic to spot and manage any vulnerability in webapp. On top of that, SamuraiWTF takes pride in its easy-to-use format, making it simple for both new and experienced hackers.

The community members regularly offer improvements, thus keeping the OS up-to-date with the constantly changing demand of cyber security. This framework enables cyber security experts to imitate real-world threats on web apps, helping in detecting and averting possible safety threats safely and responsibly. SamuraiWTF, thanks to the project's cooperation and commitment to community development, serves as a helpful tool for web application security testing.

System Requirements

While specific information about SamuraiWTF’s system requirements is hard to find, here you can find general system requirements for VMs of that kind, that we calculated for you and that are more than enough to run it smoothly.

Hard Disk: A minimum of 20-30 GB of free hard drive space is typically recommended for the virtual machine and associated tools.
RAM: A minimum of 4 GB of RAM is often recommended, though having 8 GB or more can significantly improve the performance.
CPU: A multi-core processor with at least two cores is suggested.

Pros

Focused on Web Application Security: SamuraiWTF has a specific focus on web application security testing, providing users with a curated set of tools and resources tailored for this purpose. So, professionals have all they need for complete web security tests.

Portable Virtual Machine: SamuraiWTF is distributed as a virtual machine, making it highly portable, quick and really easy to set up, thus becoming accessible for all users.

Inclusion of Training Resources: Beyond tools, SamuraiWTF includes training resources and documentation. Users don't just learn about them, but they also learn the basics, virtualization, the standards and the best practices of web application security testing.

Cons

Limited Scope Beyond Web Testing: SamuraiWTF, while excellent for web application security testing, has a narrower focus. If you need more tools, it might not be perfect for all kinds of penetration testing.

Resource Intensive: Running a virtual machine can be resource-intensive, especially on systems with limited hardware capabilities. You may have performance issues, based on how you allocate your VM resources, causing performance issues.

Requires Virtualization Software: You can only use SamuraiWTF with their specific virtualization software. If your system can't support it, this could cause issues both when installing and when using SamuraiWTF.List item

Conclusion

Making the right pick for a hacking operating system (OS) matters a lot for ethical hackers and security experts. We've looked at various OS choices such as Kali, Parrot, Commando VM, BlackBox, BlackArch, and SamuraiWTF.

Each OS was evaluated based on its unique features, maintenance, and highlights. Even though they all have strengths, they each have issues.

In essence, the choice of the best hacking OS depends on the specific needs, preferences, and expertise of the user. Each OS offers a unique set of features, strengths, and considerations, contributing to the dynamic landscape of ethical hacking and cyber security.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What OS do hackers use most?

Kali Linux is widely preferred by hackers for security assessments and penetration testing.

Is BlackArch better than Kali?

It depends on preferences; BlackArch focuses on penetration testing tools, while Kali is easier to use/learn.

Why do hackers prefer Linux over Windows?

Linux offers open-source tools, better security, and flexibility, making it ideal for hacking tasks.

Can you use Windows for hacking?

Yes, as we said in this article, with OSs like Commando VM, Windows can be used for ethical hacking and penetration testing.

What hacking OS is used for CEH exam?

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Practical exam uses ParrotOS.

Do I have to use Kali for OSCP exam?

While Kali is recommended, OSCP allows flexibility, permitting the use of other compatible Linux distributions.

Should I make my own hacking OS?

Using pre-built OSs like Kali or BlackArch is recommended over creating one, especially for beginners or people with a limited networking and programming knowledge. However there are benefits to learning how to assemble your own hacking OS.

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Tommaso Bona

Tommaso Bona is a skilled security professional from Italy, working as a Cybersecurity Specialist and Security Engineer. Proficient in Python and Bash, Tommaso shares his knowledge by crafting open-source pentesting tools freely available on his GitHub and helping others develop their abilities through his blog posts. You can reach him on his LinkedIn.

nobody says:

February 5, 2024 at 2:55 pm

Mandiant is the cyber juggernaught behind Commando VM. Mendiant is a typo…

Kristopher Morrison says:

February 5, 2024 at 3:41 pm

Thank you for catching that. We’ve corrected the typo.

Nathaniel says:

July 23, 2024 at 10:36 am

I want to you to teach me how to use GitHub and python

Best OS for Hacking (2026 Ultimate Guide)

Why Use a Hacking Operating System?

Kali Linux

System Requirements

Pros

Cons

Parrot Security OS

System Requirements

Pros

Cons

CommandoVM

System Requirements

Pros

Cons

CompTIA PenTest+ Courses Bundle

BackBox

System Requirements

Pros

Cons

BlackArch

System Requirements

Pros

Cons

CompTIA PenTest+ Voucher

SamuraiWTF

System Requirements

Pros

Cons

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Guarantee Your Cyber Security Career with the StationX Master’s Program!

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