Kali Linux Cookbook: Boost your pentesting career with essential tools like Nmap, Metasploit, and Wireshark

Discover step-by-step solutions for tackling real-world cybersecurity tasks using essential Kali Linux tools and techniques

Free with your book: DRM-free PDF version + access to Packt's next-gen Reader*

Key Features

• Install and configure Kali Linux on multiple platforms, choosing the best desktop and use case
• Perform expert network scanning and vulnerability analysis with Nmap, OpenVAS, and Nessus
• Augment social engineering campaigns with AI chatbots for real-time, personalized engagement
• Purchase of the print or Kindle book includes a free PDF eBook

Book Description

This hands-on guide will help you become a penetration testing expert by gaining command of the powerful tools of Kali Linux, the industry-leading Linux distribution designed for ethical hacking and security auditing, and applying them in real-world security assessments.

This cookbook’s third edition is updated to include the latest advancements in cybersecurity. The author leverages their 20 years of industry experience to guide you through installing Kali on multiple platforms, setting up lab environments, and using modern tools, such as Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, OpenVAS, and AI-driven reconnaissance. You’ll also explore automated social engineering, wireless hacking, web and database exploitation, and advanced persistence techniques, delivering a comprehensive and up-to-date penetration testing resource. Recognizing the critical role of human factors in security, this edition expands on social engineering tactics, including psychological principles and AI-driven automation, to craft highly effective attack campaigns.

By the end of this book, you’ll have strengthened your grasp of the entire penetration testing process, from environment setup and reconnaissance to vulnerability analysis, exploitation, and maintaining access, and be equipped with industry-standard tools to enhance your effectiveness as a security professional.

What you will learn

• Find out how to scan the network to find vulnerable computers and servers
• Use AI-enhanced tools for thorough reconnaissance and intelligence
• Identify and exploit vulnerabilities with advanced penetration tools
• Apply social engineering tactics and advanced password cracking
• Perform wireless, web, and database penetration testing techniques
• Maintain persistent access while avoiding detection and defenses

Who this book is for

This book is ideal for cybersecurity professionals, ethical hackers, penetration testers, red teamers, security analysts, and IT administrators looking to strengthen their offensive security skills using Kali Linux. It is also for students, career-switchers, and aspiring ethical hackers preparing for roles in cybersecurity operations and threat analysis. A basic understanding of networking, operating systems, and security fundamentals is recommended.

Table of Contents

1. Bootstrapping Your Cyber Arsenal
2. Cloak and Dagger: Stealth and Anonymity
3. Deep Recon: Unveiling the Digital Landscape
4. Nmap Mastery – Scanning with Precision
5. Wireshark Wizard: Network Traffic Demystified
6. Weaknesses Exposed: Advanced Vulnerability Analysis
7. Exploitation Unleashed: Finding the Hidden Flaws
8. Human Hacking: The Art of Social Engineering
9. Breaking Barriers: the Secrets of Password Cracking
10. Climbing the Ladder: Mastering Privilege Escalation
11. Wireless Warfare: Dominating the Airwaves
12. Web Warriors: Exploiting Online and Database Vulnerabilities
13. Persistence Pays: Securing Long-Term Access

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Corey P. Schultz is a technologist focusing on security research, Internet of Things, and the impact of technology on education and learning. He has over 20 years of experience in the security industry doing security architecture, penetration testing, incident response, and forensic analysis. Corey is currently a technical solutions architect for Cisco Systems Global Security Sales Organization. He works on a daily basis with large environments on designing and architecting secure enterprise networks.