> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ajmal-anwar.gitbook.io/zyberspace-by-ajmal/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ajmal-anwar.gitbook.io/zyberspace-by-ajmal/zyberlab/06-network-security-basics/create-kali01.md).

# Create the Kali Linux VM for KALI01

Kali Linux will be used as the basic network testing workstation in ZyberLab.

It is being added only now because the network labs need a separate Linux system for connectivity and service discovery exercises.

## Objective

Create a Kali Linux virtual machine named `KALI01` and connect it to the same VMware NAT network as `DC01` and `CLIENT01`.

## Suggested VM Settings

| Setting | Suggested Value                            |
| ------- | ------------------------------------------ |
| VM name | `KALI01`                                   |
| CPU     | 2 vCPU                                     |
| Memory  | 4 GB                                       |
| Disk    | 40 GB or more                              |
| Network | Same VMware NAT network as the Windows VMs |

## Create the VM

1. Download the current Kali Linux installation image from the official Kali Linux website.
2. Open VMware Workstation.
3. Create a new virtual machine.
4. Select the Kali Linux ISO.
5. Choose Linux as the guest operating system when required.
6. Name the virtual machine `KALI01`.
7. Allocate the suggested CPU, memory, and disk resources.
8. Confirm that the network adapter uses the same NAT network as the Windows lab systems.
9. Start the VM and complete the Kali Linux installation.

## Basic Preparation

After installation:

1. Sign in to Kali Linux.
2. Confirm the system hostname is `KALI01`.
3. Confirm the network adapter is connected.
4. Install normal system updates when appropriate.
5. Confirm VMware integration tools are working if they are required by your installation.

## Check the IP Address

Open a terminal and run:

```
ip addr
```

You can also check the routing table with:

```
ip route
```

Record the IPv4 address and default gateway in your lab notes.

## Verify Basic Connectivity

Test the VMware gateway first:

```
ping <default-gateway>
```

Then test `CLIENT01` and `DC01` using their lab IP addresses.

A failed ping does not always mean the network is broken. The Windows Firewall may block ICMP echo requests.

## Create a Snapshot

When the system is stable, create a VMware snapshot named:

```
KALI01 - Clean Install
```

## Verification

The setup is complete when:

* The VM is named `KALI01`
* Kali Linux starts normally
* The VM has an IPv4 address
* The default gateway is visible
* The VM is on the same VMware NAT network as the Windows systems
* A clean snapshot exists

## Security Relevance

A separate testing workstation makes it easier to understand which system initiated an activity and which system received it. This becomes useful when comparing network activity with Windows and Sysmon logs.