Computing and the internet have become a huge part of our daily lives, with technology being used in everything from phones and computers to lights and locks.
While we trust the companies that create our technology to keep us secure, there are concerns about privacy and data security from experts around the world.
Companies often collect sensitive data and track our location, so it can be a major problem if there are any security breaches. That’s where ethical hackers and security testers come in. These professionals test the latest technologies by exposing them to the latest threats and looking for vulnerabilities. To do this kind of hacking and testing, they need a range of tools.
There are various operating systems specifically designed for hackers that have all the necessary tools for security testing and working with different types of computer and network technologies.
In this article, we’ll be discussing some of the best operating systems for hackers.
Best Operating Systems for Hacking (Hacking OS)
Here are the best operating systems that can be used for various types of hacking and security testing purposes. You can choose any of these according to your usage. Let’s start with our list and a brief review.
1. Kali Linux
Kali Linux is the most popular and best hacker’s operating system. It is built on top of Linux Debian and comes with the most powerful hacking tools.
This operating system comes with the first open source Android penetration tester for nexus devices. Another great feature of Kali Linux is that it supports forensic mode.
It allows direct booting of the operating system through any bootable media to infringe the forensic evidence in the system. It comes with all the other popular Linux benefits and tools, too.
2. BackBox
BackBox is based on Ubuntu Linux and designed as a large scale penetration and testing tool. It covers many areas of testing and penetration, such as network security, web application analysis, stress testing, vulnerability testing, forensics, and exploits.
This hacking operating system comes with a virtual Launchpad repository that contains the latest updated tools for hacking and security testing. BackBox is a highly recommended hacker operating system.
3. Parrot Security OS
If you are looking for an OS for hacking on Pentesting, Computer Forensic, Reverse engineering, Hacking, Cloud testing, Privacy/Anonymity, and Cryptography, we have the best deal for you.
Parrot Security OS is the best when it comes to the above mentioned hacking areas. It is based on a stable branch of Debian Linux and comes with the MATE desktop environment installed.
It is known to support a wide range of hardware configurations.
4. Samurai Web Test
Samurai Web Testing Framework is configured for penetration testing and web security. It works in a live environment and is known for attacking and testing websites.
The Samurai System is built based on the most widely used security practices in the hacking world. It has been praised on the web for its four-step test on the web.
So, if this is what you are looking for, then Samurai Web Testing is your hack OS.
5. DEFT Linux
Digital Evidence and Forensic Tools or otherwise known as DEFT is our pick to be on the list of the best operating systems for hacking. DEFT is based on the DART software on Ubuntu Linux.
DART stands for Advanced Digital Response Toolkit. This means that this hacker operating system was created from the roots only for hacking, which makes it useful in doing so.
This operating system contains all the tools to serve individuals, IT auditors, investigators, military and police.
6. NodeZero
NodeZero is also a Linux-based hacking operating system. It is built entirely on the Ubuntu distro, but it comes loaded with all the security and penetration testing tools that make it a very decent operating system.
It can be downloaded as a DVD ISO image and can be played on any 32-bit or 64-bit architecture. NodeZero is based on the two-panel interface of the Ubuntu GNOME environment and comes with virtual repositories.
It comes with many pre-installed applications, such as Mozilla Firefox web browser, F-Spot photo manager, Rhythmbox music player, PiTiVi video editor, Empathy instant message and OpenOffice.org office suite to make you work well in the dark.
7. Pentoo
Pentoo is a hacking system designed to run as a live CD or USB for portable penetration testing. As the original Gentoo OS, on which it is based, Pentoo supports all configurations for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
The most notable feature of this hacking OS is the patched wifi drivers for packet injection, GPGPU cracking software, PAX hardening, grsecurity, and additional patches – with binaries compiled from the Hardening Toolchain.
The latest nightly versions of some tools are available. All of these make Pentoo the right choice as an operating system for hacking.
8. GnackTrack
Gnacktrack is an open project based on the GNOME desktop environment. It combines important security, penetration, and testing tools into a single operating system which makes GnackTrack the right choice for hackers and testers.
These tools are great when you are working in fields related to Metasploit, Armitage, wa3f, and more.
9. Cyborg Hawk Linux
Cyborg Hawk Linux is developed and maintained by Ztrela Knowledge Solutions Pvt. Ltd. only to create tools for security testing, ethical hackers, and penetration testing.
It is based on Ubuntu Linux and comes fully loaded with over 700 security tools. All of the above distros only had about 400+, while this one had about double.
Thus, you can use this hacking system for several purposes, including mobile security and wireless testing, network security and evaluation, digital forensics, malware analysis, and more.
Hence, these are the best operating systems for hacking and hacking.
In conclusion, we hope you enjoyed this list of best operating systems for hacking. Make sure not to break any law or cause any trouble to anyone with these hacking operating systems. For any suggestion, query or help, feel free to comment below.
FAQs
What is hacking?
Hacking refers to the practice of using technical skills to gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or devices. It can also refer to the use of these skills to find vulnerabilities in systems and exploit them for personal or malicious purposes.
What are the different types of hacking?
There are several types of hacking, including:
- Ethical hacking, also known as white hat hacking, is the practice of using hacking techniques to identify vulnerabilities in systems and help organizations fix them.
- Black hat hacking involves using hacking techniques for malicious purposes, such as stealing data or disrupting systems.
- Gray hat hacking refers to hacking activities that fall somewhere between ethical and malicious hacking. For example, a gray hat hacker may identify a vulnerability and notify the organization, but also exploit it before it is fixed.
- Script kiddie refers to individuals who use pre-made tools or scripts to hack into systems without understanding how they work.
How can I protect my computer from being hacked?
There are several steps you can take to protect your computer from being hacked:
- Use strong and unique passwords for all of your accounts.
- Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Keep your operating system and software up to date with the latest security patches.
- Use a firewall and antivirus software to protect against malware and other threats.
- Be cautious when opening emails and links from unknown sources.
- Use a secure network when accessing sensitive information online.
Can I be charged with a crime for hacking?
Yes, hacking can be a criminal offense. Depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the case, individuals who engage in hacking activities may face charges such as computer fraud, identity theft, or unauthorized access to a computer system. In some cases, hacking can also be considered a federal crime.
How do hackers get caught?
There are several ways that hackers can be caught:
- Law enforcement agencies may investigate and prosecute individuals who engage in hacking activities.
- Hackers may leave traces or clues behind that can be traced back to them.
- Hackers may be caught by security measures put in place by organizations or individuals to detect and prevent unauthorized access.
- Hackers may be caught by other hackers who report them to authorities or expose their activities.
