Kali Linux 2024.4 Released, What’s New?

Kali Linux 2024.4, the final release of 2024, brings a wide range of updates and new features for cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers. Here are the key highlights:

New Default Python Version

Python 3.12 is now the default Python interpreter in Kali Linux 2024.4

1. This change comes with improved performance, better syntax, and optimized memory management. Notably, pip is now disabled by default, with pipx becoming the preferred tool for installing Python packages due to its environment isolatio.

End of 32-bit Support

Kali Linux has officially discontinued 32-bit (i386) builds with this release

1. While 32-bit packages are still available in the repository, no new i386 images will be created. This change aligns with the broader trend in the Linux community of phasing out 32-bit support.

New Tools

Kali Linux 2024.4 introduces 14 new tools to enhance its penetration testing and security analysis capabilities

1. Some notable additions include:

• bloodyad: Active Directory privilege escalation framework
• chainsaw: Rapid search and hunt through Windows forensic artifacts
• hexwalk: Hex analyzer, editor, and viewer
• mssqlpwner: Interact with and exploit MSSQL servers
• zenmap: The graphical front-end for Nmap

Desktop Environment Updates

The release includes GNOME 47, which brings several enhancements

• Support for accent color customization
• New system-monitor panel extension
• Improved color schemes for the GNOME text editor
• A new login theme

Raspberry Pi Improvements

Kali Linux 2024.4 offers significant improvements for Raspberry Pi users

• Support for applying OS customizations directly from the Raspberry Pi Imager
• Kernel Mode Setting (KMS) enabled by default for Raspberry Pi 5
• Improved detection for DSI displays and cameras
• Support for the recently launched Raspberry Pi 500

Kali NetHunter Updates

The Kali NetHunter app for Android devices has received major upgrades

• Introduction of Wifipumpkin3 as a replacement for the Mana toolkit
• Ability to flash kernels directly from the app without using recovery mode
• Expanded device support, including the first Android 15-compatible device (Xiaomi Mi A3)

Other Notable Changes

• Linux kernel upgraded to version 6.11
• Deprecation of DSA keys in the SSH client1

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1Various ARM SBC updates and improvements

1 This release reinforces Kali Linux’s position as a leading platform for information security professionals, offering an expanded toolkit and improved user experience across various devices and platforms.