Kali Linux is a popular operating system that is used by many cybersecurity professionals for ethical hacking and penetration testing. One of the most common questions that people ask about Kali Linux is what the default password is. In this article, we will explore the Kali Linux default password and provide some tips on how to reset it.
What is Kali Linux?
Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution that is designed for digital forensics and penetration testing. It is developed and maintained by Offensive Security, a cybersecurity company that specializes in ethical hacking and penetration testing.
Kali Linux is pre-installed with a number of tools that are used for penetration testing and ethical hacking, including Metasploit, Nmap, Wireshark, and Aircrack-ng. It is also available as a live CD and can be run from a USB drive, making it a portable tool that can be used on any computer.
What is the Kali Linux Default Password?
When you install Kali Linux, you will be asked to create a root user account and a standard user account. The root user account is the most powerful account on the system and has complete control over all aspects of the system. The standard user account is a non-administrative account that is used for day-to-day tasks.
The Kali Linux default password for the root user account is “toor”. This password is set by the Kali Linux developers and is intended to be changed by the user after the initial installation.
It is important to note that the Kali Linux default password for the standard user account is not set by the Kali Linux developers. Instead, you will be prompted to create a password for the standard user account during the installation process.
Why Should You Change the Kali Linux Default Password?
The Kali Linux default password is well-known in the cybersecurity community, which means that it is also well-known to attackers. If you leave the default password in place, you are leaving your system vulnerable to attack.
Changing the default password is an important step in securing your Kali Linux installation. By changing the password, you make it more difficult for attackers to gain access to your system. You should also change the password on a regular basis to keep your system secure.
How to Change the Kali Linux Default Password?
Changing the Kali Linux default password is a simple process. Here are the steps that you need to follow:
- Open a terminal window.
- Type “passwd” and press Enter.
- Enter the current root password (“toor” by default).
- Enter the new root password.
- Re-enter the new root password to confirm it.
- Press Enter to complete the process.
It is important to choose a strong password when changing the Kali Linux default password. A strong password should be at least eight characters long and should contain a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kali Linux default password for the root user account is “toor”. It is important to change this password to a strong, unique password to secure your Kali Linux installation. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily change the default password and improve the security of your system.
