CyberCode Academy

Course 14 - Wi-Fi Pentesting | Episode 1: Setting Up the Virtual Hacking Lab: VirtualBox and Kali Linux

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In this lesson, you’ll learn about:
  • How to set up a complete virtual hacking lab
  • The role of VirtualBox in safe security testing
  • Installing and configuring Kali Linux as a virtual machine
  • Understanding NAT networking in virtual environments
  • Navigating the Kali Linux desktop and workspace system
Building a Virtual Hacking Lab with VirtualBox & Kali Linux Installing VirtualBox VirtualBox is a virtualization platform that allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine (host), including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Key benefits:
  • Runs multiple virtual machines (VMs) inside your main system
  • Provides complete isolation between the host and the lab
  • Prevents damage to the real system if a VM is compromised
  • Supports snapshots for quick restore after experiments
After installation:
  • The VirtualBox Extension Pack must be installed
  • Enables:
    • USB device support
    • Wireless adapters
    • Mouse and keyboard integration
Installing Kali Linux as the Hacking Machine Kali Linux is a Debian-based operating system designed specifically for:
  • Penetration testing
  • Digital forensics
  • Security research
It comes:
  • Pre-installed with hacking tools
  • Fully pre-configured for security testing
Installation Method
  • Download the Kali Linux VirtualBox OVA image
  • Import the OVA file directly into VirtualBox
  • No manual OS installation is required
Recommended Virtual Machine Settings
  • RAM: 1 GB minimum
  • CPU: 1 processor
  • Network Mode: NAT
Understanding NAT Network Configuration
  • NAT creates a virtual private network for all VMs
  • The host system acts as the router
  • All VMs can:
    • Access the internet
    • Communicate with each other
  • No direct exposure to the real external network
Kali Linux Login Credentials
  • Username: root
  • Password: toor
Kali Linux Desktop Overview Key interface components include:
  • Applications Menu
    • Contains all hacking tools grouped by category
  • Places Menu
    • Quick access to important directories such as:
      • /root home directory
  • System Tray
    • Network control
    • Audio
    • Display settings
Workspaces in Kali Linux
  • Kali uses multiple virtual desktops by default
  • Allows separation of:
    • Scanning tasks
    • Exploitation tasks
    • Reporting tools
Internet & Wireless Considerations
  • Internet access works automatically via NAT
  • Connecting directly to Wi-Fi from Kali:
    • Requires an external USB wireless adapter
    • Internal laptop Wi-Fi cannot be directly controlled by Kali inside a VM
Learning Environment Readiness
  • Users are encouraged to:
    • Explore menus
    • Practice navigation
    • Get comfortable with terminal usage
  • This environment will be used throughout the entire course


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CyberCode AcademyBy CyberCode Academy