Troy Cheng / 2025-07-17

This tutorial will walk you through on how to install Kali Linux alongside an existing Windows system. Follow the steps to ensure the integrity of the Windows environment while enabling access to Kali through a dual-boot configuration.

Caution: Before proceeding, back up all important files. Disk partitioning carries inherent risk.

Step 1: Prepare Installation Media

Use a USB drive with at least 8 GB capacity (preferably 16–32GB).
Format it to FAT32 if necessary.

Step 2: Download Kali Linux

Navigate to https://www.kali.org/get-kali/#kali-installer-images.
Download the Installer ISO for 64-bit systems (~4 GB).

Step 3: Create Bootable USB with Rufus

Download Rufus from https://rufus.ie.
Insert the USB and launch rufus.exe.
Set the Device to the USB drive.
Set Boot selection to the Kali ISO.
Click Start.
If prompted, select DD image mode.
Decline any DBX update requests.
When complete, eject the USB.

Step 4: Shrink Windows Partition

Open Disk Management (Win + R → diskmgmt.msc).
Right-click on C: and select Shrink Volume.
Enter at least 60000 MB (60 GB).
Confirm there is Unallocated space shown.

Step 5: Configure BIOS

Insert USB and reboot.
Enter BIOS/UEFI (continuously press F2, DEL, ESC while rebooting; button varies by model).
Go to Security tab. Disable Secure Boot.
Go to Boot tab. Set the USB as the first boot device.
Save and exit BIOS (typically by pressing F10 button).

Step 6: Start Kali Installation

Boot from the USB stick.
Select Graphical Install.
Proceed through language, location, and keyboard settings.

Step 7: Partition Disks Safely

When prompted for partitioning method, select:

Guided - use the largest continuous free space

When asked about the partitioning scheme, select:

All files in one partition (recommended for new users)

Choose Finish partitioning and write changes to disk, then confirm with Yes.

Step 8: Install System Files

Proceed with the default package selections. The system will install Kali and necessary components. Wait until it’s finished.

Step 9: Finalize Installation

Remove the USB drive when prompted.
Reboot the system.
The GRUB boot menu will appear, allowing you to select Kali Linux or Windows.

Success! You now have a fully working dual-boot setup with Kali Linux and Windows. You can boot into Kali for security tasks and return to Windows for daily use without losing any data.

If you ever want to remove Kali, you can delete the Kali partitions in Disk Management and repair the Windows bootloader using a Windows recovery USB

#Tutorial

How to Dual Boot Kali Linux and Windows