Penetration Testing Bootcamp: Setting Up a Virtual Pen Testing Lab

Overview

• Introduction to setting up a virtual penetration testing lab.
• Discussion of tools and frameworks based on the chosen operating system.

Requirements

1. Hypervisor:
   • Primary tool is VirtualBox.
   • Other options: VMware, or any hypervisor you prefer.
2. Penetration Testing Distribution:
   • Main distribution used is Kali Linux.
   • Other options include:
     • Parato S
     • BlackArch
     • Backbox
   • Additional resources for installation available in the description.
   • Playlist is provided for comprehensive tutorials.

Pen Testing Frameworks

For Linux

• If opting not to use a full pen testing distribution:
  • Katulin: To install tools from Kali repositories on Debian/Ubuntu.
  • Pen Tester Framework: Manage and update various penetration testing tools.

For Windows

• Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL): Access Kali distributions as a subsystem, with the ability to install necessary tools.
• Pentest Box:
  • A portable penetration testing environment that does not require virtualization.
  • Features: Pre-configured, supports Java tools like DevBuster and BurpSuite.

Virtual Machine Images

• Recommended to download Kali Linux VM images:
  • Access through Offensive Security for more standardized installations.
  • Benefits of using VM images: pre-packaged and easier to set up.
• Supported hypervisors:
  • VirtualBox
  • Hyper-V
  • VMware

Vulnerable Boxes

• Resources for vulnerable boxes will be from Volnhub to provide practical exercises.
• HackerBox is not preferred due to subscription costs for retired machines.
• Volnhub offers free access to useful vulnerable VMs for learning.

Additional Learning Resources

• A dedicated playlist for setting up the virtual pen testing lab is available.
• Topics covered in the playlist include:
  • Installing Kali Linux on VMware
  • Using the Pen Tester Framework
  • Windows Subsystem for Linux
  • Pentest Box setup
• Recommended starting resource: how to set up a virtual penetration testing lab video.

Conclusion

• Next video session will focus on information gathering and reconnaissance.
• Questions and suggestions to be directed in the comment section or social networks.
• Encouragement to engage with the material and apply the knowledge in future sessions.

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