Install Kali Linux on Mac OS

Installing Kali Linux on a macOS system can be done either through virtualization or by creating a dual-boot setup. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both methods:

### **Method 1: Using Virtualization**

This method allows you to run Kali Linux alongside macOS using a virtual machine (VM) software.

#### 1. **Download Virtualization Software**

- **VirtualBox**: A free and open-source option.

- **VMware Fusion**: A commercial option with more features.

Download and install your preferred virtualization software:

- [VirtualBox](https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads)

- [VMware Fusion](https://www.vmware.com/products/fusion.html)

#### 2. **Download Kali Linux ISO**

- Go to the [Kali Linux official download page](https://www.kali.org/get-kali/) and download the appropriate ISO file for Kali Linux.

#### 3. **Create a New Virtual Machine**

1. **Open VirtualBox or VMware Fusion.**

2. **Create a New VM:**

   - In **VirtualBox**: Click "New," select "Linux" and "Other Linux (64-bit)," and follow the prompts.

   - In **VMware Fusion**: Click "Create a New Virtual Machine," and follow the wizard.

3. **Configure VM Settings:**

   - **Memory:** Allocate at least 2 GB of RAM (more if possible).

   - **Hard Disk:** Create a virtual hard disk with at least 20 GB of space.

4. **Attach the Kali Linux ISO:**

   - In **VirtualBox**: Go to the VM settings, under "Storage," add the Kali Linux ISO to the optical drive.

   - In **VMware Fusion**: Mount the ISO as a virtual CD/DVD drive.

5. **Start the VM:**

   - Boot the VM from the ISO file and follow the Kali Linux installation prompts.

#### 4. **Install Kali Linux**

1. **Boot from ISO:**

   - Start the VM and boot from the Kali Linux ISO.

2. **Install Kali Linux:**

   - Follow the installation instructions. Choose your installation type (graphical install is recommended for beginners).

3. **Complete Installation:**

   - Set up partitions, user accounts, and other settings as prompted.

4. **Reboot the VM:**

   - Once installation is complete, reboot the VM and remove the ISO from the virtual drive.

### **Method 2: Dual-Boot Setup**

This method involves partitioning your hard drive and installing Kali Linux alongside macOS.

#### 1. **Prepare for Installation**

1. **Backup Your Data:**

   - Ensure you have a complete backup of your macOS system before proceeding.

2. **Create a Bootable Kali Linux USB Drive:**

   - Use a tool like [Balena Etcher](https://www.balena.io/etcher/) to create a bootable USB drive from the Kali Linux ISO.

#### 2. **Partition Your Hard Drive**

1. **Open Disk Utility:**

   - Go to "Applications" > "Utilities" > "Disk Utility."

2. **Create a New Partition:**

   - Select your hard drive and create a new partition for Kali Linux (at least 20 GB).

3. **Apply Changes:**

   - Apply the changes and exit Disk Utility.

#### 3. **Install Kali Linux**

1. **Boot from USB:**

   - Restart your Mac and hold the Option key while booting. Select the USB drive to boot from.

2. **Start Installation:**

   - Boot from the Kali Linux USB and choose the graphical installation option.

3. **Follow Installation Prompts:**

   - During installation, select the partition you created earlier for Kali Linux.

4. **Install Bootloader:**

   - Install GRUB (the bootloader) to the partition where Kali Linux is installed. Be cautious to avoid overwriting the macOS bootloader.

5. **Complete Installation:**

   - Finish the installation and reboot your Mac.

#### 4. **Configure Dual-Boot**

1. **Use rEFInd Boot Manager:**

   - To manage dual-booting between macOS and Kali Linux, you might want to install [rEFInd](https://www.rodsbooks.com/refind/), a boot manager for macOS and Linux systems.

2. **Install rEFInd:**

   - Follow the instructions on the rEFInd website to install it and configure your boot options.

By following these methods, you can run Kali Linux on a macOS system either through a virtual machine or in a dual-boot configuration.