How to Boot Kali Linux from USB on Windows 10
Booting Kali Linux from a USB on Windows 10 involves creating a bootable USB drive, adjusting your computer’s BIOS settings, and starting up the system from the USB drive. In simple terms, you’ll first download the Kali Linux ISO file, then use a program to write this file to your USB stick, and finally, restart your computer to boot from the USB. This process allows you to run Kali Linux without installing it on your computer.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Boot Kali Linux from USB on Windows 10
This tutorial will guide you through the process of creating a bootable USB drive with Kali Linux and configuring your computer to boot from it.
Step 1: Download Kali Linux ISO File
First, download the Kali Linux ISO file from the official website.
Head over to Kali’s official website and look for the download section. Choose the version that suits your needs, usually the latest one. Make sure to save the downloaded file in an easily accessible location on your computer.
Step 2: Get a USB Drive
Second, ensure you have a USB drive with at least 8GB of space.
You need a USB stick that’s empty or one that you don’t mind erasing because the process will delete all data on the drive. Insert the USB stick into your Windows 10 computer.
Step 3: Download and Install Rufus
Third, download and install Rufus, a free tool to create bootable USB drives.
Rufus is simple to use and works well with Windows 10. You can download it from its official website. Once downloaded, install and run the program.
Step 4: Create the Bootable USB
Fourth, use Rufus to write the Kali Linux ISO to your USB drive.
Open Rufus and select your USB drive under "Device." Click the "Select" button and choose the Kali Linux ISO file you downloaded. Ensure the partition scheme is set to "MBR" and the file system is "FAT32." Click "Start" to begin creating the bootable USB.
Step 5: Change BIOS Settings
Fifth, restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings to change the boot order.
Accessing the BIOS settings usually involves pressing a key like F2, F10, or Delete right after turning on your computer. Once in the BIOS, find the boot order settings and set your USB drive as the first boot device. Save your changes and exit.
Step 6: Boot from USB
Sixth, reboot your computer to boot from the USB drive.
With the USB drive set as the primary boot device, your computer should boot into Kali Linux. You might need to select the USB from a menu by pressing a key like F12 during startup.
After you complete these steps, your computer will boot into Kali Linux from the USB drive, allowing you to use all of its features without installing it on your hard drive. You can explore, use tools, and even perform tasks as if Kali Linux were installed on your computer.
Tips for Booting Kali Linux from USB on Windows 10
- Use a high-quality USB drive to avoid errors during the boot process.
- Keep your BIOS firmware up to date to ensure compatibility with USB booting.
- Consider creating a persistent storage partition if you want to save your work on the USB drive.
- Back up any important data on your USB stick before starting, as the process will erase it.
- Double-check the downloaded ISO file’s checksum to ensure it’s not corrupted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to change the boot order in BIOS?
Changing the boot order allows your computer to start from the USB drive instead of the internal hard drive, enabling you to run Kali Linux.
Can I use other tools besides Rufus to create the bootable USB?
Yes, there are other tools like UNetbootin or Balena Etcher, but Rufus is widely recommended for its simplicity and reliability.
Is it possible to run Kali Linux from USB without changing BIOS settings?
Some computers allow you to select a temporary boot device by pressing a key like F12 during startup without changing the BIOS permanently.
Will booting from USB affect my Windows 10 installation?
No, booting from a USB drive won’t affect your Windows 10 installation since it runs independently from the USB.
Can I use the same USB drive for other files after booting Kali Linux?
Yes, but remember to back up any important data before creating the bootable USB, as the process will erase all existing data on the drive.
Summary
- Download Kali Linux ISO file.
- Get a USB drive.
- Download and install Rufus.
- Create the bootable USB.
- Change BIOS settings.
- Boot from USB.
Conclusion
Booting Kali Linux from a USB on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that allows you to explore and use Kali Linux without installing it on your computer’s hard drive. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily create a bootable USB drive and configure your computer to boot from it.
This method is especially useful for those who want to try out Kali Linux or use it for specific tasks without making permanent changes to their system. For further reading, you might want to check out official Kali Linux documentation or forums for more tips and tricks.
So, grab your USB stick, follow these simple steps, and dive into the world of Kali Linux!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.