Arch Linux is an open-source Linux-based Operating System that is freely available for use. It belongs to the Pacman-based Linux family. It is a light weighted OS for daily use and could even be used by professionals. It was first released in March 2002. It is a beginner-friendly Linux Operating System.
Features of Arch Linux:
- Minimalist approach: Arch Linux is designed to be minimalist, which means it comes with a basic set of software packages and allows users to customize their system according to their needs.
- Rolling release model: Arch Linux follows a rolling release model, which means that updates and new versions of the software are continuously added to the system.
- Pacman package manager: Arch Linux uses the Pacman package manager to install and manage software packages.
- AUR repository: Arch Linux has a large repository of software packages called the Arch User Repository (AUR), which allows users to access and install community-maintained packages.
- Community-driven: Arch Linux is a community-driven distribution, which means that the development and maintenance of the operating system is primarily done by volunteers.
Kali Linux is a Linux-based open source Operating System which is freely available for use. It belongs to the Debian family of Linux. It was developed by “Offensive Security”. It was first released in March 2013 with the aim to be the replacement the BackTrackOS. Kali comes packed with 100+ penetration testing, security research, digital forensics, reverse engineering, and ethical hacking tools.
Features of Kali Linux:
- Penetration testing tools: Kali Linux is designed for penetration testing and comes with a wide range of tools for this purpose.
- Security focus: Kali Linux is specifically designed with security in mind and is used by security professionals for testing and assessing security vulnerabilities.
- Customizable: Kali Linux can be customized to suit specific needs and preferences.
- Rolling release model: Kali Linux follows a rolling release model, which means that updates and new versions of the software are continuously added to the system.
- APT package manager: Kali Linux uses the APT package manager to install and manage software packages.
Similarities between Arch Linux and Kali Linux:
- Command-line interface: Both Arch Linux and Kali Linux offer a command-line interface for advanced users and developers.
- Linux-based: Both Arch Linux and Kali Linux are based on the Linux kernel.
- Minimalist approach: Kali Linux also follows a minimalist approach, which means it comes with a basic set of software packages and allows users to customize their system according to their needs.
- Community-driven: Like Arch Linux, Kali Linux is also a community-driven distribution with an active community of users and developers.
- Free and open-source: Both Arch Linux and Kali Linux are free and open-source operating systems, which means they are free to use and can be modified and distributed by anyone.
Difference between Arch Linux and Kali Linux:
| Arch Linux | Kali Linux |
|---|---|
| Developed by Levente Polyak. | Developed by Offensive Security. |
| Arch was initially released in March 2002. | kali was initially released in March 2013. |
| Arch is lightweightcommand-line-based OS and can be configured for daily purpose use. | Kali is used by security researchers or ethical hackers for security purposes |
| The discussion forum for Arch is bbs.archlinux.org. | The discussion forum for Kali Linux is forums.kali.org. |
| Arch linux DOES NOT come with any desktop environment or GUI out of the box. | Latest Kali consists of the xfce environment by default, though it allows you to change the same. |
| Arch doesn’t come packed with hacking and penetration testing tools. | Kali comes packed with hacking and penetration testing tools. |
| Arch doesn’t come with any user interface and the whole installation is command-line-basedinterfaceDebian. | Kali comes with a user Interface as compared to Arch which has no GUI. |
| Arch is geared towards more advanced users only. | Kali Linux is not a daily driver OS as it is based on debian testing branch. For a stable Debian based experience, ubuntu should be used. |
Conclusion:lightweight command-line-based Arch Linux and Kali Linux are two popular Linux distributions that serve different purposes. Arch Linux is a general-purpose operating system that is lightweight and customizable, while Kali Linux is a specialized operating system that is specifically designed for penetration testing and ethical hacking. When choosing between Arch Linux and Kali Linux, it is important to consider the purpose of the operating system and the needs of the user.interfaceDebian