How to Install Kali Linux on an External Drive (Beside Windows and Manjaro)

While Kali Linux can be installed on your hard drive (HDD) and run as a permanent installation, there are alternative methods that offer flexibility and simplicity. This guide will walk you through the process of installing Kali Linux on an external drive, allowing you to use it both with your primary operating systems, such as Windows and Manjaro, and as needed through a live boot environment.

1. Live Boot Mode

One of the most straightforward ways to use Kali Linux is via live boot. This method allows you to:

Download the Live Boot ISO: Visit the Kali Linux official website and download the latest Live Boot ISO. Create a bootable USB drive: Use tools like Rufus, BalenaEtcher, or even the Rufus Windows application to create a bootable USB stick from the ISO download. Boot from USB: When you need to use Kali Linux, simply plug in the USB stick and restart your computer. Use the appropriate key (usually F2, F12, or a USB key prompt) to boot from the USB.

2. Using Ventoy as a Multi-ISO Manager

For those who manage multiple ISOs and want a more flexible deployment strategy, the Ventoy software offers a robust solution. Ventoy is designed to allow you to manage and boot from multiple ISOs stored on a single USB drive.

Benefits of Ventoy:

Multi-ISO Management: Ventoy can hold multiple ISO files, including Kali Linux, making it an ideal toolkit for various system utilities and installations. Easy to Use: Once you have installed Ventoy, simply copy any ISO files onto the USB drive to make them bootable. No Modifications to USB Drive: You can reuse the Ventoy USB drive for other purposes, as the software does not modify the USB drive in any permanent way.

To get started with Ventoy:

Download Ventoy: Visit the official Ventoy website () and download the latest version of Ventoy. Install Ventoy on USB: Use any desired software to create a bootable USB stick, then run Ventoy and follow the on-screen instructions to install it on the USB drive. Copy ISO Files: Copy your Kali Linux Live Boot ISO and any other ISOs you need (e.g., Windows installation) to the USB drive. Ventoy will automatically detect the ISO files and make them bootable. Boot from USB: When you need to use Kali Linux, simply boot from the USB stick as described in the live boot section.

3. Installing Kali Linux on External Storage

For those who prefer a more permanent installation of Kali Linux on an external drive, the process involves several steps:

3.1 Preparation

Create a Bootable USB: Use a tool like Rufus or BalenaEtcher to create a bootable USB from a Kali Linux ISO. Download Partitioning and Cloning Tools: Utilities like GParted Live and

3.2 Installation Steps

Boot from USB: Plug in the bootable USB and restart your computer, then boot from the USB stick. Select Installation Type: During the installation process, select the Something Else option under installation type if you want to partition the drive manually. Partitioning: Use GParted to create the necessary partitions, typically / (root) and /boot. Ensure that these partitions have the correct file systems (ext4 and ext2 respectively). Proceed with Installation: Finish the installation process, and once complete, reboot your computer. Boot from New Drive: Connect the external drive and boot from it using the USB stick or directly if your computer supports it.

4. Integration with Windows and Manjaro

Once you have Kali Linux installed on your external drive and on a live boot USB, you can integrate it with your Windows and Manjaro systems. Here are some tips:

Create a Shared Folder: Mount the external drive in Windows and Manjaro using tools like udisks for Manjaro or the File Explorer in Windows. Manage Kali Applications: You can install Kali-specific applications on the external drive and access them via the shared folder. Use SSH: If you want to access Kali Linux remotely, you can set up SSH and manage your Kali environment from another computer.

Conclusion

The flexibility of using Kali Linux on an external drive or via the live boot mode provides an excellent combination of portability and functionality. Whether you need a dedicated security and forensics tool or a flexible environment for different OS setups, this guide should help you get started. Happy hacking!

Keywords: Kali Linux, external drive, live boot, Ventoy, Manjaro