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Managing Kali Linux Stability in Courses

Abstract

Kali Linux uses a rolling release model, which can make environments unpredictable over time. This article explains how the Cyber Range stabilizes Kali for consistent course use.

Background on Kali Linux

Kali Linux is a specialized Linux distribution designed for penetration testing and digital forensics. It comes with a wide array of pre-installed tools such as vulnerability scanners, password crackers, and network analyzers.

Kali is a Rolling Release distribution. This means it receives continuous updates instead of scheduled, versioned releases. New features, tools, and package updates are added as they become available, giving users access to the most up-to-date software at all times. Unlike traditional distributions that release major versions on a set schedule, a rolling release constantly evolves without requiring a full system upgrade.

Rolling Releases and Courseware

Our platform helps educators teach effectively. To do so, many instructors create courseware, handouts, and/or labs. Naturally, we want those materials to continue working next semester — or even next year.

Unfortunately, rolling releases often make courseware unstable within just 3 to 6 months, especially as content grows in complexity and depends on specific tool versions.

Locking Releases

Due to recurring issues experienced by customers using Kali Linux in classes, the Cyber Range has mirrored the Kali software package repository into what we call a “Repository Vault”. This vault is a point-in-time copy which should lend consistency and stability to the Kali Linux deployments.

The Repository Vault supports the use of apt and other standard package tools, however, the available packages are locked to this specific point in time. This ensures that students are able to experience a consistent environment throughout the semester and instructors can rely on their courseware to function as intended.

Since the package versions do not change, users do not receive the latest updates. If a software or tool requires a newer version than what is available in the Vault, you will need to find an alternative installation method such as downloading the package manually or building it from source.

Vault repository is configured via /etc/apt/sources.list.d/debian.sources configuration file. That directory also contains /etc/apt/sources.list.d/cyberrange.sources, which is a configuration for repositories with optional packages we may provide in the future.

Unlocking Rolling Release Repository

To unlock official Kali Linux repository for the rolling release, users need to remove .DISABLED suffix from /etc/apt/sources.list.d/cyberrange.sources.DISABLED configuration file. We also recommend disabling existing repositories to avoid potential conflicts:

sudo mv /etc/apt/sources.list.d/cyberrange.sources \
    /etc/apt/sources.list.d/cyberrange.sources.DISABLED
sudo mv /etc/apt/sources.list.d/debian.sources \
    /etc/apt/sources.list.d/debian.sources.DISABLED
sudo mv /etc/apt/sources.list.d/kali.sources.DISABLED \
    /etc/apt/sources.list.d/kali.sources

Have a Question? Contact Support

We're here to help you. If you still have questions after reviewing the information above, please feel free to submit a ticket with our Support Team and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.