🖥️ Software Downloads
Download and install these tools on your computer. Most are one-time installations.
VirtualBox lets you run virtual machines (VMs) on your computer. You'll use it to run Kali Linux safely in an isolated environment without affecting your main operating system. This is essential for security labs and testing.
Installation Steps:
- Download the installer for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
- Run the installer and follow the prompts
- Allow any kernel/driver installations when prompted
- Restart your computer if required
- Launch VirtualBox to verify installation
Kali Linux is a Debian-based distribution specifically designed for security testing. The VM image comes pre-installed with essential tools like Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, Wireshark, and many more. This is your primary environment for hands-on labs.
Download the 64-bit VirtualBox image (~3GB). Unzip the file after downloading.
Setup Steps:
- Download the VirtualBox 64-bit image from kali.org
- Extract the downloaded .7z or .zip file
- Open VirtualBox → File → Import Appliance
- Select the extracted .ova file and click Import
- Allocate at least 4GB RAM and 2 CPU cores
- Start the VM — default login:
kali/kali
Python is the primary programming language used throughout the curriculum for security scripting, automation, and tool development. Make sure to install Python 3.10 or later.
Windows users: Check "Add Python to PATH" during installation!
Verify Installation:
- Open Terminal (macOS/Linux) or Command Prompt (Windows)
- Run:
python3 --versionorpython --version - You should see version 3.10 or higher
- Also verify pip:
pip3 --version
VS Code is a free, powerful code editor with excellent support for Python, shell scripts, and configuration files. Recommended extensions include Python, Remote SSH, and GitLens.
Recommended Extensions:
- Python — IntelliSense and debugging
- Remote - SSH — Edit files inside VMs
- GitLens — Enhanced Git integration
- YAML — For config file editing
Git is essential for version control and is used throughout the industry. You'll use it to track your lab work, submit assignments, and build a portfolio.
Verify Installation:
- Open Terminal/Command Prompt
- Run:
git --version - Configure your identity:
git config --global user.name "Your Name"git config --global user.email "your@email.com"
Wireshark is the world's most popular network protocol analyzer. You'll use it to capture and analyze network traffic, understand protocols, and investigate security incidents. It's also pre-installed in Kali Linux.
On Windows, install Npcap when prompted (required for packet capture).
Burp Suite is the industry-standard tool for web application security testing. The free Community edition includes essential features for learning. It's also pre-installed in Kali Linux, but you may want it on your host OS too.
First-time Setup:
- Install Burp Suite and launch it
- Create a temporary project (free tier)
- Configure browser to use proxy: 127.0.0.1:8080
- Install Burp's CA certificate in your browser
🌐 Platform Accounts
Create free accounts on these platforms to access integrated labs. No downloads required.
🚀 Next Steps
Once you've completed the setup, you're ready to start your cybersecurity journey!
- Complete TryHackMe Pre-Security Path — Great introduction to the fundamentals
- Explore Your Kali VM — Familiarize yourself with the tools and environment
- Start CSY101 Week 1 — Begin with the Foundations of Cybersecurity course