Linux users are always looking for ways to get more out of their computers as well as save money in the process. In this regard, there are two main distributions that users can choose from among Linux and other operating systems.
Linux is an operating system installed on personal computers. It provides users with a wide range of applications, including word processors, spreadsheets, and anything else they might need.
Most computers sold today come pre-installed with one or more versions of Linux, which makes it easy for anyone to start using the software without even having to go out and buy a separate license. However, not everyone has the same reaction to different situations.
There are numerous types of Linux; some are faster than others depending on the hardware installed and how it is configured. These differences between distributions are known as “distro variations” or “distro builds” for short and are usually listed in the user manual and on the website for each specific version of Linux.
What is Kali Linux?
Kali Linux is a distribution that focuses on penetration testing and forensics. It is a Debian-based distribution that comes with an extensive collection of open-source tools.
Some of these include Nmap, which is an open-source port scanner used for finding out what ports are open on a specific computer as well as what services are running on them. – Wireshark: This free and open-source packet analyzer can decode and display data sent over a network.
It is a very popular tool for network troubleshooting. Metasploit is an exploit management tool used for finding and using exploits for the Metasploit framework.
What is Kali Linux Lite?
Kali Linux Lite is a lightweight variant of the above-mentioned distribution. It is designed for older devices with less powerful hardware that cannot handle the power-hungry tools of the full version.
Difference Between “Kali Linux” And “Kali Linux Lite”
The main difference between Kali Linux and Kali Linux Lite is the size of the ISO image they come with. The default version of Kali Linux comes with a 14.5 GB image, while Kali Linux Lite comes with a 3.7 GB ISO.
This size difference is due to the way the ISO for the two distributions was created. The default version of Kali Linux was built from scratch, whereas the Lite version was built with a forensics-focused tool called “K3 destruction.”
Kali Linux Lite is also known as Kali-DE, as it is based on Debian but has a forensics-focused tool called “K3 destruction.” The Lite version is designed to run on devices with less powerful hardware that is unable to handle the power-hungry tools of the full version.
| KALI LINUX | KALI LINUX LITE |
|---|---|
| Kali Linux Debian-based Linux Distribution. | Kali Linux Lite is also Debian-based. |
| The minimum RAM requirement is 4 GB. | 2 GB RAM is Enough to install It. |
| It has 600+ pre-installed tools | It has some 10 to 15 basic tools |
| It is used for Pen testing or Ethical Hacking. | It is used for low-system computers. |
Limitations Of Kali Linux Lite
The biggest limitation of Kali Linux Lite is that it is only available for 64-bit systems. Since it is based on Debian, Kali Linux Lite uses the same repositories as Kali Linux for third-party applications.
However, for enhanced forensics capabilities, files and tools are removed from the repositories. While Kali Linux Lite can be used for forensics, it cannot be used for penetration testing.
As a lighter version of Kali Linux, Kali Linux Lite does not have as many tools as the full version of Kali Linux does.
Moreover, Kali Linux Lite has a variety of tools for forensics, but it does not have as many security tools as the full version of Kali Linux.
Advantages of Kali Linux Lite
The lightweight nature of Kali Linux Lite means it can run on devices with less powerful hardware.
Like Kali Linux, Kali Linux Lite is a Debian-based distribution. It is Debian 9.0 and is maintained by the same team responsible for Debian Stable.
Since it is based on Debian, Kali Linux Lite can also be used for forensics. The forensics tool “K3 destruction” has been integrated into the Lite version of Kali Linux too.
This tool is known to be faster and more secure than other forensics tools. Like Kali Linux, Kali Linux Lite has a large collection of open-source tools. The only difference is that they are integrated with forensics features.
Like Kali Linux, Kali Linux Lite is based on Debian and follows the same release cycle. This means it will also receive security updates for two years after its release.
Which One Should I Use?
If you’re wondering which one is a better option for you, I have an advice for you. As a newbie, it’s recommended that you not install the lite version because it has limited tools like pen testing or wireless ones.
Thus they have to be externally downloaded. However, if you are experienced and want some freed space then you are advised to use Kali Linux Lite.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Linux Lite good for?
Linux Lite delivers a seamless switch from Windows to Linux because it is user-friendly for beginners. It has a user interface comparable to that of Windows, making it simple for new users to get used to the Linux environment.
In comparison to Windows, Linux Lite has far more modest hardware requirements.
Can Kali Linux run on 1 GB RAM?
At least 20GB of RAM is required for the installation of Kali Linux on a personal computer.
Which version of Linux is the fastest?
Puppy Linux is one of the fastest Linux distributions. Chrome OS is another one I consider to be very quick and efficient.
When it comes to booting up, it is remarkably fast for a fresh operating system.
Which one is the best: Kali Linux or Kali Linux Lite?
In case you are a Professional Programmer or an ethical hacker, the Kali Linux original version should be the best one for you. This is because the Lite version of Kali Linux has some features missing.
Why do hackers use Kali Linux?
Linux not only comes with an efficient, practical operating system but it also provides over 600 tools for data security. Because Kali Linux includes security analysis, security auditing, and penetration testing, hackers frequently utilize it.
Conclusion
Although Kali Linux and Kali Linux Lite are two distinct distributions, they share a lot of the same features. They both aim to provide the best possible experience for the penetration tester, and they are both designed to run on a wide range of hardware.
The main difference between the two is that Kali Linux Lite is designed for devices with less powerful hardware that is unable to handle the power-hungry tools of the full version. Kali Linux is a popular distribution for penetration testing and forensics.
It is available in both a full and lightweight version, designed for devices with less powerful hardware.
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