8 Best Linux Distros for Pentest

This curated overview of 8 best Linux distros for pentest focuses on useful options, standout features, and details worth checking before making a choice.

1. Kali Linux

Kali Linux is derived from Debian and is one of the most popular and advanced Linux distributions for pentest. This operating system is available in 32-bit and 64-bit versions. Users who want to try this operating system can download ISO files and virtual images for Kali Linux.

2. ArchStrike

ArchStrike, a security related Linux distribution based on Arch Linux, is widely used by cybersecurity professionals.

Rooted in Arch Linux, ArchStrike offers many package management options. The ease of installing and removing pre-existing packages makes this operating system seamless for the end user.

There are more than 5000 tools available on this system related to exploit, social engineering, spoofing, malware, brute-force, network, DDoS, etc.

3. Demon Linux

Demon Linux, as the name suggests, is a Linux-based operating system commonly used for pentesting. It is a lightweight and user-friendly distro for security professionals. Simplicity comes first, so you can open any app with a single key.

In addition, Demon Linux includes a simple dock design that is easy to operate. Users can record and take screenshots easily from the quick access menu bar.

4. Cyborg Hawk

Cyborg Hawk is an Ubuntu-based distribution with over 750 open source tools. If you are an Ubuntu lover, this operating system will satisfy you.

Cyborg Hawk ranks quite high on the list of operating systems that focus on cybersecurity. Rest assured, you can even perform accurate mobile security and wireless infrastructure testing in this operating system.

Cyborg Hawk may not be as good as Kali; however, it still works pretty well.

Some features include:

• Access to over 750 pentest tools.
• Since it is an open source Linux distribution, you can use it for free and even as a live operating system.
• Some of the services include pentests, exploit kits, reverse engineering, mobile and wireless security, and more.
• Cyborg Hawk is a stable and reliable operating system that comes with its own software repository.

5. BackBox

BackBox is an open source operating system based on Ubuntu that has quickly become one of the most popular names in the pentest world.

In addition, BackBox provides users with a set of network analysis tools, which is quite useful in the penetration testing world. BackBox provides 70 tools, however, before running any of them, make sure you have a clear understanding of the tool you intend to use. Otherwise, you may find yourself lost in the maze of commands.

Some popular pre-installed tools include Metasploit, SQLmap, Aircrack-ng, Nmap, Scapy, w3af and Wireshark, etc.

6. Parrot OS

Parrot Security, based on Debian, is specifically designed for security professionals, privacy-conscious users, and developers. It inherits the codebase from Debian and was developed in collaboration with CAINE. Parrot Security supports secure browsers and cryptographic software such as I2P and Tor.

Parrot Security, as an operating system, is equipped with a complete arsenal of tools for IT security and digital forensics. You can even develop your own programs and maintain privacy while surfing the Internet. Parrot comes with the MATE desktop (by default) and offers a variety of versions for end users.

Parrot is regularly updated, quite secure and fully sandboxed. Since it is open source, you can view the source code easily and customize it according to your own needs.

7. CAINE

Computer Aided Investigative Environment, commonly known as CAINE, is a well-known and popular Linux distribution that provides a user-friendly graphical menu and interface. CAINE Linux originates from Ubuntu and is a popular choice for pentests.

CAINE's graphical interface provides a complete environment that you can integrate with existing software tools. If you are looking for a well-structured report that helps you better pentest and promote communication with the team, then CAINE should be the first choice.

Some of the popular tools in this operating system include Autopsy, The Sleuth Kit, Wireshark, PhotoRec, fsstat, RegRipper, and tinfoleak.

8. Pentoo

Pentoo is an open source Linux-based operating system, available in 32-bit and 64-bit architectures. If you've used Gentoo Linux before, you'll find Pentoo relatively easy to set up and use.

Pentoo comes with UEFI pre-installed and comes fully equipped with UNetbootin, a software that supports secure booting. Thanks to the live run feature of the operating system, you can run it directly from a USB.

This distro comes with Xfce as the default desktop environment. Xfce is a lightweight, reliable desktop that offers lots of customizable options. Some additional tool categories include exploit, MitM fuzzer, forensics, crack and database. It also provides a wide range of important applications including GPGPU, OpenCL, CUDA, John the Ripper, and Hashcat.

Hope you find the right one for you!