Kali Linux kicks off 2025 with the release of Kali Linux 2025.1a, an update that brings a wealth of improvements, new features, and visual refinements, solidifying its position as the leading Linux distribution for cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers. The 2025.1a release arrives after a last-minute bug was discovered in the original 2025.1 build, prompting a timely re-release with critical fixes.
A Fresh Look for a New Year
As part of its annual tradition, Kali Linux introduces a new 2025 theme refresh, complete with an updated boot menu, redesigned login screen, and a fresh collection of stunning desktop wallpapers for both the standard and Kali Purple editions. The community also contributed new wallpapers, now available in the kali-community-wallpapers package, highlighting contributions from artists like Onix32032044.
Desktop Environment Updates: KDE Plasma 6.2 and Xfce 4.20
The highly anticipated KDE Plasma 6.2 makes its debut in this release, replacing the older 5.27 version. Plasma 6.2 introduces a more polished user interface with floating panels, improved window management, and updated system themes.
The default Xfce desktop has also been upgraded to version 4.20, incorporating two years of development work. New intuitive keyboard shortcuts make navigation smoother, especially for users transitioning from other operating systems:
- File Manager: Ctrl + Alt + F, Super + E, Super + F
- Run Command: Super + R
- Open Terminal: Super + T
- Open Browser: Super + W
- Show Desktop: Super + D
Advanced window manager shortcuts allow easy multi-monitor setups and window tiling using the numeric keypad.
Improved Raspberry Pi Support with New Kernel
Kali Linux 2025.1a comes with major enhancements for Raspberry Pi devices, including the adoption of the raspi-firmware package from Raspberry Pi OS and the introduction of a new 6.6.74 kernel, with full support for the Raspberry Pi 5. The image structure has been revamped, with the boot partition now mounted at /boot/firmware. Users are advised to perform a clean install rather than upgrading previous Pi setups to ensure full compatibility with the new architecture.
Kali NetHunter: Powerful Mobile Pentesting Enhanced
Kali NetHunter, the platform for mobile penetration testing, brings exciting new features in this release. The all-new “CAN Arsenal” tab, developed by V0lk3n, allows users to conduct car hacking tests directly from their mobile devices. New kernels have been added for devices including:
- Samsung Galaxy S9 (Exynos9810 – LineageOS 20/Android 13)
- Samsung Galaxy S10 (Exynos9820 – LineageOS 21 & 22.1)
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 6 Pro (Android 11)
The installer now features dynamic wallpapers, ensuring full adaptability for devices with unique resolutions.
New Packages and Kernel Bump
Kali Linux 2025.1a introduces new tools, most notably HoaxShell, a Windows reverse shell payload generator that uses HTTP(S) protocols to establish beacon-like connections. The Kali kernel has also been upgraded to version 6.12, providing better performance and security enhancements.
Global Expansion with 11 New Mirrors
The project continues to expand worldwide, adding 11 new mirrors across Asia and Europe. Countries like Japan, Nepal, Singapore, South Korea, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Azerbaijan, and Denmark are now part of Kali’s mirror network, ensuring faster downloads and updates for users across the globe.
How to Update or Install Kali Linux 2025.1a
Existing users can easily upgrade using the following commands:
echo "deb http://http.kali.org/kali kali-rolling main contrib non-free non-free-firmware" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list
sudo apt update && sudo apt -y full-upgrade
cp -vrbi /etc/skel/. ~/
[ -f /var/run/reboot-required ] && sudo reboot -f
New installations can be performed using fresh ISO images available on kali.org, with dedicated builds for VMs, WSL, cloud platforms, and Raspberry Pi devices. Weekly builds are also offered for users who want access to the latest packages and bug fixes.
Enhanced Documentation and Community Contributions
The Kali documentation has been updated with new guides covering kernel configurations for CAN hacking, detailed NetHunter CAN-Arsenal usage, and OTG activation for devices like the OnePlus 6/6T and POCO F1. The team has also acknowledged contributors from the community for their active involvement.
Conclusion: A Strong Start to 2025 for Cybersecurity Professionals
Kali Linux 2025.1a is more than just an update; it is a comprehensive evolution that enhances both the user experience and the technical capabilities of the distribution. With a redesigned visual theme, cutting-edge desktop environments, expanded hardware compatibility, and continued community engagement, Kali Linux reaffirms its status as the go-to platform for cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers around the world.
Source: Kali Linux
