In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of installing Kali Linux on Android smartphones without rooting the device. Kali Linux is an operating system popular among computer hackers, security researchers, and penetration testers. Its advanced penetration testing tools and user-friendly interface make it an essential component in the toolkit of every cybersecurity professional.
The installation of Kali Linux on Android phones and tablets allows researchers and penetration testers to perform security assessments on networks, such as cracking Wi-Fi passwords, identifying security vulnerabilities in networks, and conducting security checks on websites, all without the need to root the phone.
Here are the steps to install Kali Linux on Android smartphones without rooting, providing a seamless integration of this powerful security-oriented operating system. By following these steps, you can leverage the capabilities of Kali Linux for various security tasks on your Android device, enhancing your cybersecurity toolkit.
How to install kali linux in termux without root

Before we delve into the process of installing and running Kali Linux on an Android smartphone, you’ll need to download the applications provided below. Please ensure to obtain the following apps to facilitate the installation:
Prior Requirements:
- install Termux
- install NetHunter-KeX client
- install Hacker’s Keyboard
Installation:
After installing the mentioned applications, open Termux, and press the Enter key if it appears to be unresponsive on your phone. Now, using Termux, we need to install some packages. To accomplish this, copy and paste the commands provided below and hit enter.
- Refresh the system by executing the following command
$ pkg update && pkg upgrade -y
- Configure system storage
kali@kali:~$ termux-setup-storage
- Download Kali Linux
kali@kali:~$ wget -O install-nethunter-termux https://offs.ec/2MceZWr
- Granting execution privileges to the downloaded Kali Linux file
kali@kali:~$ chmod +x install-nethunter-termux
- Installation of Kali Linux on Android
kali@kali:~$ ./install-nethunter-termux
The commands mentioned above will retrieve, download, and install Kali Linux on your device. Given that the file size is approximately 1.5GB, the downloading process may take some time.
After the download is complete, you can initiate Kali NetHunter from the Command Line Interface (CLI).
To initiate Kali NetHunter, enter the following command:
nethunter
Below are some useful commands for Kali NetHunter on your Android phone:
nethunter kex passwd | configure the KeX password (only needed before 1st use) |
nethunter kex & | start Kali NetHunter Desktop Experience user sessions |
nethunter kex stop | stop Kali NetHunter Desktop Experience |
nethunter <command> | run in NetHunter environment |
nethunter -r | start Kali NetHunter cli as root |
nethunter -r kex passwd | configure the KeX password for root |
nethunter -r kex & | start Kali NetHunter Desktop Experience as root |
nethunter -r kex stop | stop Kali NetHunter Desktop Experience root sessions |
nethunter -r kex kill | Kill all KeX sessions |
nethunter -r <command> | run <command> in NetHunter environment as root |
Conclusion
We have effectively completed the installation of Kali Linux on non-rooted Android smartphones.