2025-02-04
Kali Linux is a critical tool for cybersecurity professionals, especially those working in Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) security. To excel in OT pentesting, a strong foundation in Kali Linux is essential. This guide focuses on the fundamentals, ensuring you’re well-prepared for advanced security testing.
Essential System Navigation
Navigating the Kali Linux environment is the first step. Use these commands to familiarize yourself with the system:
– `pwd` – Print the current working directory.
– `ls` – List files and directories.
– `cd` – Change directory.
– `man` – Access manual pages for commands (e.g., man ls).
Basic Linux Commands
Mastering basic commands is crucial for efficient workflow:
– `cat` – Display file contents (e.g., cat file.txt).
– `grep` – Search for patterns in files (e.g., grep "error" log.txt).
– `echo` – Print text to the terminal (e.g., echo "Hello, Kali!").
– `history` – View command history.
File Management
Proper file management ensures organized workflows:
– `cp` – Copy files (e.g., cp file1.txt file2.txt).
– `mv` – Move or rename files (e.g., mv file1.txt /path/to/destination).
– `rm` – Remove files (e.g., rm file.txt).
– `mkdir` – Create directories (e.g., mkdir new_folder).
Service Control
Managing services is vital for testing environments:
– `systemctl start systemctl start apache2).
– `systemctl stop
– `systemctl status
– `systemctl enable
Package Management
Installing and updating tools is a frequent task:
– `apt update` – Update the package list.
– `apt upgrade` – Upgrade installed packages.
– `apt install apt install nmap).
– `apt remove
What Undercode Say
Mastering Kali Linux is the cornerstone of effective OT and ICS pentesting. The commands and practices outlined above form the foundation for more advanced techniques. Here are additional Linux commands and tools to enhance your cybersecurity skills:
1. Network Scanning with Nmap:
– `nmap -sP 192.168.1.0/24` – Ping scan to discover live hosts.
– `nmap -sV 192.168.1.1` – Version detection on a target.
2. Packet Analysis with tcpdump:
– `tcpdump -i eth0` – Capture packets on a specific interface.
– `tcpdump -w capture.pcap` – Save packets to a file for later analysis.
3. File Integrity Checking:
– `md5sum file.txt` – Generate an MD5 checksum for file integrity.
– `sha256sum file.txt` – Generate a SHA-256 checksum.
4. Log Analysis:
– `tail -f /var/log/syslog` – Monitor system logs in real-time.
– `grep “Failed” /var/log/auth.log` – Search for failed login attempts.
5. Firewall Configuration:
– `ufw enable` – Enable the Uncomplicated Firewall (UFW).
– `ufw allow 22/tcp` – Allow SSH traffic through the firewall.
6. Process Management:
– `ps aux` – List all running processes.
– `kill
7. Disk Usage Analysis:
– `df -h` – Display disk space usage in human-readable format.
– `du -sh /path/to/directory` – Check the size of a directory.
8. User Management:
– `adduser newuser` – Create a new user.
– `passwd username` – Change a user’s password.
9. SSH Access:
– `ssh [email protected]` – Connect to a remote server via SSH.
– `scp file.txt [email protected]:/path/to/destination` – Securely copy files to a remote server.
10. Scripting for Automation:
- Write Bash scripts to automate repetitive tasks. Example:
#!/bin/bash echo "Starting network scan..." nmap -sP 192.168.1.0/24 echo "Scan complete."
By mastering these commands and tools, you’ll build a robust foundation for OT and ICS pentesting. Practice regularly, explore advanced techniques, and stay updated with the latest cybersecurity trends.
For further reading, visit:
Remember, cybersecurity is a continuous learning journey. Keep experimenting, stay curious, and always prioritize ethical practices.
References:
Hackers Feeds, Undercode AI
