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Kali Linux Reviews

Vendor: Kali Linux
4.3 out of 5
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What is Kali Linux?

Kali Linux is widely used by organizations for penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, web application security, network audits, ethical hacking, and open-source intelligence, providing extensive free features.

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Kali Linux is the #11 ranked solution in top Operating Systems for Business. PeerSpot users give Kali Linux an average rating of 8.6 out of 10. Kali Linux is most commonly compared to Ubuntu Linux: Kali Linux vs Ubuntu Linux. Kali Linux is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 45% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a comms service provider, accounting for 13% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
Kali Linux
December 2025
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Kali Linux mindshare

As of December 2025, the mindshare of Kali Linux in the Operating Systems (OS) for Business category stands at 3.3%, up from 1.3% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Operating Systems (OS) for Business Market Share Distribution
ProductMarket Share (%)
Kali Linux3.3%
Rocky Linux13.0%
Ubuntu Linux10.1%
Other73.6%
Operating Systems (OS) for Business

PeerResearch reports based on Kali Linux reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryOperating Systems (OS) for BusinessDec 29, 2025Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonKali Linux vs Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)Dec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonKali Linux vs Rocky LinuxDec 29, 2025Download
ComparisonKali Linux vs Ubuntu LinuxDec 29, 2025Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Ubuntu Linux4.310.1%95%151 interviewsAdd to research
Rocky Linux4.313.0%100%18 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers
Last updated Dec 21, 2025

Valuable Features

Kali Linux offers a comprehensive toolkit with pre-installed applications such as Nmap, Metasploit, and Wireshark, ideal for penetration testing and vulnerability assessments. Its security-focused features, lightweight design, and live USB functionality allow for efficient customization and quick deployment. Users appreciate resources and documentation, enhancing scalability and performance. The platform supports cybersecurity tasks across diverse environments, aiding in red and blue team operations, making it highly valuable for security professionals.
  • "Kali Linux has positively impacted my organization significantly as it aids in red team work and penetration testing."
  • "Kali Linux is a very good tool and a good overall operating system to use when it comes to penetration testing, as it has a wonderful set of tools."
  • "Kali Linux stands out compared to other operating systems I have used for security work because it is a specific distribution of Linux that has all the required tools pre-loaded and configured."

Room for Improvement

Users suggest enhancing Kali Linux by integrating AI and GPT capabilities, improving the interface for ease of use, and resolving installation errors. They express the need for better stability, faster installation in virtual environments, improved security features, and a more robust Grub bootloader. They desire easier onboarding for beginners, more comprehensive documentation, and enhanced customization. Issues with hardware detection and dependency management are noted, along with calls for expanded tool options and improved port scanning features.
  • "Kali Linux can be improved, as I have encountered challenges with dependencies that can be overwhelming."
  • "However, something about it might be improved, maybe the overall smoothness of it, because there are sometimes when I try to run a lot of applications, it tries to hang up on me."
  • "I think Kali Linux can be improved because it is not a beginner-friendly operating system."

ROI

Companies have experienced significant returns with Kali Linux through enhanced vulnerability identification, operational cost reduction, and streamlined employee training. By leveraging Kali Linux with DevOps tools, companies have lowered their attack surfaces and incident frequencies, resulting in substantial investments. Users have seen time savings and efficiency improvements, especially when utilizing cloud services like AWS Marketplace. Employees have gained faster learning experiences, contributing to the perception of Kali Linux as a valuable investment for cybersecurity and resource management.

Pricing

Kali Linux, an open-source tool, is available at no cost, eliminating licensing fees for enterprises. Users report positive experiences with setup costs, noting they are limited primarily to hardware and virtual machines, without vendor-specific licenses. Despite some references to a perpetual license, the general consensus highlights its free availability, offering robust tools suited for enterprise needs. Pricing is consistently viewed as straightforward and beneficial for resource deployment and cost calculation.
  • "Kali Linux offers a perpetual license, meaning you pay for it once and can use it. While free versions of Linux are available, Kali Linux, being an enterprise edition, usually comes with a perpetual license. I rate its pricing a five out of ten."
  • "I have used the free version."
  • "The price is good because Kali Linux already provides a good bundle of tools."

Popular Use Cases

Organizations utilize Kali Linux primarily for penetration testing, ethical hacking, and vulnerability assessment across various environments such as networks, web applications, and cloud systems. Users perform tasks like security auditing, malware analysis, network audits, and open-source intelligence gathering. The platform supports automated scans, real-time data scanning, and application security while offering diverse tools like Metasploit and Nmap. It's employed in educational settings and by professionals seeking to maintain system security and anonymity.

Service and Support

Kali Linux benefits from extensive community support and reliable technical assistance through forums. The documentation is well-structured and helpful. Although some experience delays via email, community forums often offer quick resolutions. Users frequently solve issues by leveraging online resources such as Stack Overflow and Kali forums. Many find it unnecessary to contact customer service due to the comprehensive internet resources. Some express a desire for direct support in the future, highlighting the importance of community-driven help.

Deployment

Initial setup for Kali Linux is generally straightforward and quick, taking between five minutes to two hours depending on user experience and hardware. Technical users find it simple, while those less familiar with Linux might face challenges. Basic understanding of Linux is vital. Deployment is often done through Oracle VM VirtualBox or directly on a laptop. Configuration can be smooth, but errors can extend the process. Customization requires programming skills, and some desire improved GUI for ease of use.

Scalability

Users find Kali Linux highly scalable, with capabilities to expand according to needs and resources. It supports multiple instances and handles workloads efficiently. Feedback rates scalability from seven to nine out of ten. Some users operate it individually, while others have multiple users within organizations. Scalability may depend on hardware rather than software, and it performs well, especially with sufficient resources and when deployed from public clouds, addressing various tasks and usage scenarios.

Stability

Kali Linux is consistently praised for its stability. Users frequently rate it between eight and ten out of ten, emphasizing its solid performance. Some mention that while it generally runs smoothly, there can be issues during updates, particularly as a rolling release based on Debian testing. Virtualization users find it stable, while others note occasional lag, often attributed to hardware rather than the software itself. Many users have utilized it successfully for extended periods, citing reliable outcomes.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our Kali Linux Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business9
Midsize Enterprise2
Large Enterprise12
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business107
Midsize Enterprise66
Large Enterprise143
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
University
13%
Computer Software Company
13%
Comms Service Provider
13%
Educational Organization
11%
Government
5%
Retailer
4%
Financial Services Firm
4%
Manufacturing Company
4%
Outsourcing Company
4%
Hospitality Company
4%
Healthcare Company
3%
Media Company
3%
Energy/Utilities Company
3%
Insurance Company
3%
Legal Firm
2%
Performing Arts
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Logistics Company
1%
Construction Company
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Wellness & Fitness Company
1%

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Learn more about Kali Linux

Organizations run Kali Linux in virtualized environments alongside other operating systems, employing tools for automated scans, malware identification, infrastructure testing, and application development or hosting. These users benefit from lower maintenance requirements and a smaller footprint. The toolset includes Nmap, SQLMap, Metasploit, and Hydra, ensuring effective security assessments. Its high scalability, performance, user-friendly interface, and extensive documentation enhance the platform's usability. Known for stability, flexibility, and virus resistance, Kali Linux supports web security, troubleshooting, and configuration tasks comprehensively.

What are the most important features of Kali Linux?

  • Nmap: A network scanning tool for discovering hosts and services.
  • SQLMap: An SQL injection and database takeover tool.
  • Metasploit: A penetration testing platform with various exploit tools.
  • Hydra: A network log-in cracker supporting numerous protocols.
  • Documentation: Offers extensive resources for user guidance.
  • Stability: Provides a reliable and consistent operating environment.
  • Scalability: Adapts efficiently to growing security needs.
  • Performance: Ensures fast and efficient operations.
  • Virus Resistance: Enhances security through robust virus protection.

What benefits and ROI should users look for in reviews?

  • Cost Efficiency: Free tools reduce operational expenses.
  • Operational Efficiency: Lower maintenance needs and quick setup.
  • Enhanced Security: Robust tools for comprehensive security measures.
  • Flexibility: Adaptable to different environments and requirements.

Kali Linux can support industries in improving security through stable and flexible environments that resist viruses and provide extensive documentation. Users employ it for web security, troubleshooting, and configuring capabilities. Necessary improvements include automation, user-friendliness, and integrating AI and blockchain. Enhancements in security features, faster installations, and better learning tools are also essential. Machine learning integration and non-enterprise user functionalities can address current limitations.

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Kali Linux Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
Senior Solution Architect & Delivery Lead at a tech services company with 10,001+ employees4.0I've used Kali Linux for over seven years for penetration testing and security, appreciating its lightweight design and toolset, though I’ve faced Grub issues during installations and wish it included more tools for enhanced functionality.
Associate Consultant at a consultancy with 10,001+ employees4.0I've used Kali Linux for a few years to learn pen testing and Linux fundamentals; it's fast, stable, and security-focused, though it could improve hardware detection, UI customization, and wider hardware compatibility for broader accessibility.
Cloud Security Architect at a tech services company with 10,001+ employees4.0I've used Kali Linux for 12 years mainly for security testing; its pre-installed tools, cloud availability, and customization options are excellent, though some tools lack documentation and the UI could be more responsive on low-powered machines.
Product security engineer at a tech vendor with 10,001+ employees4.0I've used Kali Linux for years due to its pre-installed security tools, strong CLI support, and customizability, though it's not beginner-friendly and could improve VM compatibility and stability in newer versions.
SWE-1 at a tech vendor with 10,001+ employees4.0I use Kali Linux for penetration testing and cybersecurity due to its open-source flexibility, robust pre-installed tools, and scalability, though it could improve user-friendliness and support; overall, it significantly enhances our network security and testing efficiency.
Consultant at Cognizant3.5I use Kali Linux daily for security tasks, thanks to its pre-installed tools like Metasploit. While it's stable and effective, it needs better documentation and updates. It's ideal for professionals, not casual users. I’d rate it 7/10.
Senior Technical Manager at a tech vendor with 10,001+ employees4.0We've used Kali Linux for backend vulnerability assessments, finding its real-time scanning capabilities valuable, though it lacks customizable port scanning. Setup was manageable, performance stable, and we're still exploring its full potential after several months of use.
Associate Cybersecurity Analyst at a university with 10,001+ employees4.5I've used Kali Linux for several years in penetration testing and red teaming, appreciating its built-in tools, especially for reconnaissance. It's stable, time-saving, and efficient, though it occasionally lags when running multiple applications.