Arch Linux Pentesting: A Guide

TL;DR

Yes, Arch Linux can be used for pentesting! It requires more setup than distributions like Kali or Parrot OS but offers greater flexibility and control. This guide outlines the steps to transform a basic Arch installation into a capable penetration testing platform.

Setting Up Arch Linux for Pentesting

1. Install Arch Linux: Follow the official Arch Installation Guide. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and understand partitioning, bootloaders (GRUB is common), and networking.
   • Choose a desktop environment (DE) or window manager (WM). XFCE, KDE Plasma, i3, or Sway are popular choices.
   • Enable Pacman keyrings: sudo pacman-key --init and sudo pacman-key --populate archlinux
2. Update the System: After installation, update your system:

   sudo pacman -Syu

3. Install Basic Pentesting Tools: Install a core set of tools using Pacman. This includes network analysis, information gathering, and vulnerability scanning.

   sudo pacman -S nmap wireshark tcpdump metasploit-framework aircrack-ng

4. Install Additional Tools (AUR): The Arch User Repository (AUR) provides access to many more tools. Use an AUR helper like yay or paru.
   • Install an AUR Helper: sudo pacman -S git base-devel, then clone and build your chosen helper (e.g., yay from yay’s GitHub).
   • Example Installation using Yay: yay -S hydra sqlmap nikto
5. Configure Networking: Ensure your wireless adapter is working correctly for Wi-Fi pentesting.
   • Check Adapter Status: iwconfig or ip link show.
   • Enable Wireless Interface (if needed): sudo ip link set up
   • Monitor Mode and Packet Injection: Aircrack-ng tools require monitor mode. Use airmon-ng start to enable it, then airodump-ng to scan for networks.
6. Set up a Virtual Environment (Optional but Recommended): Using virtual environments isolates your pentesting tools and prevents conflicts with your main system. Consider using Docker or VirtualBox.
   • Docker Example: Install Docker, then pull a pre-built pentesting image (e.g., Kali Linux in Docker)
7. Configure Firewalls: Use iptables or ufw to control network traffic and protect your system.

   sudo pacman -S ufw

   sudo ufw enable

8. Install a Text Editor: A good text editor is essential for scripting and configuration. Vim, Nano, or VS Code are popular options.

   sudo pacman -S vim

9. Keep Your System Updated: Regularly update your system to ensure you have the latest security patches and tool versions:

   sudo pacman -Syu

Important Considerations

• Learning Curve: Arch Linux has a steeper learning curve than distributions designed specifically for pentesting.
• Maintenance: You are responsible for maintaining and updating all tools yourself.
• Customization: Arch Linux offers unparalleled customization, allowing you to tailor the system precisely to your needs.