Regarding cyber security, the choice of the operating system plays a crucial role in ensuring that your online activities are secure. As an open-source operating system, Linux has gained popularity among cyber security professionals for its high level of security, flexibility, and customization. However, with so many Linux distributions, choosing the best Linux distro for cyber security can be overwhelming. In this guide, you’ll get the best Linux distro for security professionals offering robust security measures, making choosing the one that fits your specific needs easier.

Linux Distributions

Before we dive into the best Linux distros for cyber security, it’s essential to understand what Linux distributions are. Linux distributions, or simply “distros,” are variations of the Linux operating system customized to suit different user needs. 

Each distro has its pre-installed software, system settings, and desktop environment, making it unique.

Also, Check; What is Zero Trust in Cybersecurity?

Best Linux Distros for Cyber Security in 2023

So, which version of Linux is best for cyber security? Let’s look at some of the best distros in the market.

Kali Linux

Kali Linux os is one of the most popular Linux distros for cyber security. It comes with a wide range of pre-installed security tools such as Nmap, Wireshark, and Aircrack-ng, making it the best Linux distro for penetration testing and ethical hacking. 

Kali Linux is also highly customizable, with numerous tools and plugins to enhance its security features. It is not typically considered easy to use for beginners. Kali Linux is not typically recommended for beginners due to its progressive nature and its focus on penetration testing and ethical hacking. While it has a user-friendly interface, you can learn how to use Linux Kali from various online guides. Kali Linux for Dummies is a book that introduces the Kali Linux operating system.

You can download the latest Kali installer software version on the official Kali Linux website; kali.org. You can also install Kali Linux tools on Ubuntu, as they share the same Debian package management system. 

Parrot Security OS

Parrot OS is another popular Debian-based Linux for cyber security. It has many pre-installed security tools, including Anonsurf, Metasploit, and SQLmap. Parrot Security OS is highly customizable, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users. If you compare Kali Linux vs. Parrot os, Parrot is ideal for beginners, while Kali is ideal for advanced users familiar with Linux and command-line tools.

Tails

Tails is a Linux distro designed with privacy and anonymity in mind. It comes pre-installed with Tor, free and open-source software that enables anonymous communication. 

Tails also use the amnesic feature, which leaves no trace of your online activities on the system, making it an excellent choice for users who want to remain anonymous online.

Ubuntu

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distros in the market. While it’s not primarily designed for cyber security, it comes with robust features such as AppArmor and UFW, making it an excellent choice for users who want a balance between security and ease of use.

Linux is not the same as Ubuntu but is related; Linux is the core of the operating system, while Ubuntu is a complete system. Ubuntu is one of the best Linux for secure boot.

Debian

Debian is one of the best Linux os distros for programming, stable and highly customizable, and popular among cyber security professionals. It comes with a wide range of pre-installed security tools such as ClamAV, AppArmor, and SELinux, making it a safe choice for cyber security. Debian also has a strong community of developers and users, ensuring frequent security updates and bug fixes.

Arch Linux

Arch Linux is a lightweight and highly customizable best Linux os for developers. While installing and setting up requires technical expertise, Arch Linux is highly secure. It comes with many pre-installed security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and SELinux.

Fedora Security Lab

Fedora Security Lab is a Linux distro specifically designed for cyber security. It comes with a wide range of pre-installed security tools such as OpenSCAP, Nmap, and Wireshark, making it an excellent choice for users who want a distro ready.

BlackArch Linux

BlackArch Linux is a penetration-testing Linux distro with over 2000 pre-installed security tools. It is highly customizable and has various security features such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and exploit tools.

BackBox

BackBox OS Linux distro is designed explicitly for ethical hacking and security assessment, making it a favorite Linux hacker distro. It has many pre-installed security tools like Metasploit, Wireshark, and Nmap. BackBox is also highly customizable, making it an excellent choice for users who want to tailor their system to their specific security needs.

Please don’t mix it with blackbox os Linux, a collection of Linux applications available for download from the Flathub repository.

CentOS

CentOS is a stable and reliable Linux distro that is considered one of the best Linux distros for programmers and is popular among enterprise users. It comes with various pre-installed security tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and SELinux. CentOS is known for its stability and security, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize reliability and security over cutting-edge features.

Conclusion

Choosing the best Linux distro for cyber security depends on your specific needs and preferences. While Kali Linux is popular among ethical hackers and penetration testers, Parrot Security OS offers a more user-friendly experience while providing powerful security tools. 

However, which Linux distribution is more secure ultimately depends on how well the user can configure and use the tools available in either distribution. To ensure your cyber security is always up-to-date, consider consulting with NextDoorSec, a professional cyber security firm that can help you protect your digital assets and stay secure.