How To Hack WPA/WPA2 Wi Fi With Kali Linux - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Computers and Electronics
• Computer Networking
• Wireless Networking
• Wi Fi

How to Hack WPA/WPA2 Wi Fi with Kali Linux Download Article Co-authored by Nicole Levine, MFA Reviewed by Stan Kats

Last Updated: August 28, 2025 Fact Checked

Download Article

• Starting Monitor Mode
|
• Logging and Cracking the Password
|
• Video
|
• Q&A
|
• Tips
|
• Warnings

|Show more |Show less X

This article was reviewed by Stan Kats and by wikiHow staff writer, Nicole Levine, MFA. Stan Kats is the COO and Chief Technologist for The STG IT Consulting Group in West Hollywood, California. Stan provides comprehensive technology & cybersecurity solutions to businesses through managed IT services, and for individuals through his consumer service business, Stan's Tech Garage. Stan has over 7 years of cybersecurity experience, holding senior positions in information security at General Motors, AIG, and Aramark over his career. Stan received a BA in International Relations from The University of Southern California. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,494,270 times.

Want to find out if your Wi-Fi network is easy to hack? As a Kali Linux user, you have hundreds of pre-installed security auditing and penetration testing tools at your disposal. These tools are intended for ethical hacking—finding and repairing weak spots in a network—and not for illegal purposes. To find out if a WPA/SPA PSK network is susceptible to a brute-force password attack, you can use a suite of tools called aircrack-ng to hack the key. We'll show you how!

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 2:

Starting Monitor Mode

Download Article

1. 1 Log into your Kali desktop as root. This logs you in to the desktop environment as the root user.[1]
   • If you haven't enabled root logins in Kali and are using KDE or GNOME, run sudo apt install kali-root-login at the prompt.[2] Once installed, you can set a root password by running sudo password (no username) and entering a new root password. At that point, you can log in to the desktop as root.
2. 2 Plug your Wi-Fi card (if needed). If you don't have a Wi-Fi card that allows monitoring (RFMON) or you're using Kali Linux in a virtual machine, you'll need to attach an external card that does.
   • In most cases, simply attaching the card to your computer will be enough to set it up. Check the instructions for your Wi-Fi card to be sure.
   • If you're not sure if your Wi-Fi card supports monitoring, it doesn't hurt to try these next few steps.
   Advertisement
3. 3 Disconnect from Wi-Fi. To successfully test a network, you'll want to make sure your computer is not actively connected to Wi-Fi—not even to the network you're testing.
4. 4 In a terminal window, run the airmon-ng command. This tool come with Kali Linux as a part of the aircrack-ng package, and will show you the names of the connected Wi-Fi interface(s). You'll want to take note of what you see under the "Interface" header for your card.
   • If you don't see an interface name, your Wi-Fi card doesn't support monitoring.
5. 5 Run airmon-ng start wlan0 to start monitoring the network. If the name of your Wi-Fi interface isn't wlan0, replace that part of the command with the correct name. This gives you a new virtual interface name, which will usually be something like mon0, which you'll see next to "(monitor mode enabled)."[3]
   • If you see a message that says "Found processes that could cause trouble," run airmon-ng check kill to kill them.
6. 6 Run airodump-ng mon0 to view the results. Replace mon0 with the correct virtual interface name if that's not what you saw earlier. This displays a data table for all Wi-Fi routers in range.[4]
7. 7 Find the router you want to hack. At the end of each string of text, you'll see a router name.[5]
   • Make sure the router is using WPA or WPA2 security. If you see "WPA" or "WPA2" in the "ENC" column, you can proceed.
8. 8 Find the BSSID and channel number of the router. Now you'll want to make note of the values of the "BSSID" and "CH" fields for the router you want to hack. These pieces of information are to the left of the network's name.[6]
9. 9 Monitor the network for a handshake. A "handshake" occurs when an item connects to a network (e.g., when your computer connects to a router). You need to wait until a handshake occurs so you capture the data necessary to crack the password. To start monitoring, run the following command:[7]
   • airodump-ng -c number --bssid xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx -w /root/Desktop/ mon0
   • Replace the word number with the channel number you saw, and the xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx with the BSSID.
   • As long as this command stays running, you'll be monitoring for all connections and new handshakes.
Advertisement

Part 2 Part 2 of 2:

Logging and Cracking the Password

Download Article

1. 1 Understand what a deauth attack does. A deauth attack sends deauthentication packets to the router you're trying to break into, causing uses to disconnect and requiring them to log back in.[8] When a user logs back in, you will be provided with a handshake. If you don't do a deauth attack, you might have to wait around for a long time for a handshake to complete—you'll need that handshake to crack the password.
   • If you already see a line with the tag "WPA handshake:" followed by a MAC address in the output of the airodump-ng command, skip to Step 5—you have what you need to crack the password and don't need to send deauth packets.
   • Remember—use these tools for ethical purposes only.
2. 2 Wait for something to connect to the network. Once you see two BSSID addresses appear next to each other—one labeled BSSID (the Wi-Fi router) and the other labeled STATION (the computer or other device)—this this means a client is connected. To force them into a handshake, you'll now send them deauth packets that kill their connection.
3. 3 Open a new terminal. Make sure airodump-ng is still running in original terminal window, and drag it to another place on your desktop so both terminals are visible.
4. 4 Send the deauth packets. Run this command, replacing STATION BSSID with the BSSID of the client that connected to the network, and NETWORK BSSID with the router's BSSID: aireplay-ng -0 2 -a STATION BSSID -c NETWORK BSSID mon0.[9]
   • This command will send 2 deauth packets to disconnect the client from the network.[10] Don't try to send more than this—sending too many packets could prevent the client from reconnecting and generating the handshake.
   • As long as you're close enough to the target client, they'll be disconnected from the router and forced to reconnect with a handshake. If this doesn't work, move closer to the client.
   • As soon as the client reconnects, all of the information you'll need to crack the password will be available.
5. 5 In the original terminal window, press Control+C to quit airodump-ng. This stops the dump and saves a file ending with .cap to your desktop.[11]
6. 6 Decompress the rockyou.txt wordlist. To crack the password, you'll need a wordlist. Fortunately, since you're using Kali Linux, you have several already in /usr/share/wordlists.[12] The one we'll want to use is called rockyou.txt, but it's zipped up by default. To unzip it, run gzip -d /usr/share/wordlists/rockyou.txt.gz.
   • You won't be able to crack the password if it's not in the wordlist. You can always try one of the other wordlists if rockyou.txt doesn't crack the password.
7. 7 Run the command to crack the password. You'll use a tool called aircrack-ng, which come with Kali Linux, to do so. The command is aircrack-ng -a2 -b NETWORK BSSID -w /usr/share/wordlists/rockyou.txt /root/Desktop/*.cap. Replace NETWORK BSSID with the BSSID for the router.
   • Depending on the strength of the password and the speed of your CPU, this process can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
   • If you're cracking static WEP key network instead of a WPA/WPA2-PSK network, replace -a2 with -a1.[13]
8. 8 Look for "KEY FOUND!" in the terminal window. When you see a "KEY FOUND!" heading appear, aircrack-ng has found the password, which will appear in plain text.[14]
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question What is a word list, and how do I find one? Community Answer A word list is a file with passwords in it. RockYou is a good one. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 40 Helpful 78
• Question Where can I download Kali Linux? Community Answer Go to kali.org. At the top of the page, there is a Download tab. Once you open that, it will pull up the list of current downloads. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 28 Helpful 44
• Question Who created Kali Linux? Community Answer Kali Linux is a Debian-derived Linux distribution designed for digital forensics and penetration testing. It is maintained and funded by Offensive Security Ltd. Mati Aharoni, Devon Kearns and Raphaël Hertzog are the core developers. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 32 Helpful 84

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

• Using this method to test your own Wi-Fi for weak spots before launching a server is a good way to prepare your system for similar attacks. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 4

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

• Sending more than two death packets may cause your target computer to crash, thus arousing suspicion. Thanks Helpful 18 Not Helpful 2
• Hacking into anyone’s Wi-Fi without permission is illegal in most countries. Only perform the above steps on a network that either belongs to you or for which you have explicit consent to test. Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 4

Advertisement

You Might Also Like

How toBreak WEP Encryption 2 Ways to Hack a Wi-Fi Password Using an Android Device How to See Who Is Connected to Your Wireless Network How toHack a Database Simple Ways to Find a Network Security Key How Can I Find out My Wi-Fi Password? How toHack Gmail How to Set Up a Wireless Network in Linux: Terminal & GUI How to See a WiFi Password of a Past Connection (PC + Mac) How to Find a Router Password: Admin & Wi-Fi Passwords How to Find Your WiFi Password when You Forgot It The Ultimate Guide to Hacking for Beginners 4 Simple Methods to Kick People off of Your Wi-Fi How to Find Out a Password: 8 Tricks to Gain Access to Accounts Advertisement

References

1. ↑ https://www.kali.org/docs/general-use/enabling-root/
2. ↑ https://www.kali.org/docs/general-use/enabling-root/
3. ↑ https://www.aircrack-ng.org/doku.php?id=cracking_wpa
4. ↑ https://www.aircrack-ng.org/doku.php?id=cracking_wpa
5. ↑ https://www.kali.org/tools/aircrack-ng/
6. ↑ https://www.kali.org/tools/aircrack-ng/
7. ↑ https://www.aircrack-ng.org/doku.php?id=airodump-ng
8. ↑ https://sudorealm.com/blog/deauthentication-attack-using-kali-linux
9. ↑ https://www.aircrack-ng.org/doku.php?id=cracking_wpa

More References (5)

10. ↑ https://www.aircrack-ng.org/doku.php?id=cracking_wpa
11. ↑ https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/linux-unix/kali-linux-hacking-wi-fi/
12. ↑ https://www.kali.org/tools/wordlists/
13. ↑ https://www.aircrack-ng.org/doku.php?id=aircrack-ng
14. ↑ https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/linux-unix/kali-linux-hacking-wi-fi/

About This Article

Reviewed by: Stan Kats Cybersecurity Expert This article was reviewed by Stan Kats and by wikiHow staff writer, Nicole Levine, MFA. Stan Kats is the COO and Chief Technologist for The STG IT Consulting Group in West Hollywood, California. Stan provides comprehensive technology & cybersecurity solutions to businesses through managed IT services, and for individuals through his consumer service business, Stan's Tech Garage. Stan has over 7 years of cybersecurity experience, holding senior positions in information security at General Motors, AIG, and Aramark over his career. Stan received a BA in International Relations from The University of Southern California. This article has been viewed 1,494,270 times. How helpful is this? Co-authors: 29 Updated: August 28, 2025 Views: 1,494,270 Categories: Wi Fi Article SummaryX

Log into your Kali Linux computer as root and plug a Wi-Fi card into your computer. Next, open your computer’s terminal. From here, you’ll be able to begin monitoring the network and listen to nearby routers. When you find the router you want to hack, watch it for a handshake, which will give you the code to enter the network. To learn how to use Aircrack-Ng for Non-GPU computers, keep reading! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages German Thai Portuguese Italian Indonesian Spanish Arabic Chinese Turkish Korean French Russian Vietnamese Hindi Czech Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,494,270 times.

Is this article up to date?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Stan Kats Cybersecurity Expert Click a star to vote Co-authors: 29 Updated: August 28, 2025 Views: 1,494,270

Quizzes & Games

Am I Chronically Online QuizTake QuizWould I Be a Good Super Spy QuizTake QuizCan You Pass Our Lie Detector Test?Take QuizGuess the Lyrics From First Letters QuizTake QuizWhat Is My Color Aura QuizTake QuizWhat Pokémon Type Am I QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

How toBreak WEP Encryption2 Ways to Hack a Wi-Fi Password Using an Android DeviceHow to See Who Is Connected to Your Wireless NetworkHow toHack a Database

Featured Articles

250+ Messages to Reassure Your Partner (For Him & Her)What Is My Favorite Color Quiz215+ Funny & Creative Personalized Vanity Plate Ideas100+ Creative Ways to Say Good NightWhy Can't I Sleep Quiz150+ Love Paragraphs to Make Him Feel Special

Trending Articles

How toMake OutHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizRandom Fortune GeneratorIs Your Personality More 6 or 7?What Should My Name Really Be QuizIs a Guy You Don't Know Well Interested in You?

Featured Articles

What Does Your Tattoo Placement Mean? Spiritual & Aesthetic Meanings19 of the Rarest Wonders from around the WorldWhat Is the Fun Scale? The 3 Types of Fun & Their BenefitsWhat Is My Aesthetic QuizHow to Celebrate Xmas: Expert Advice on Enjoying the HolidaysHilarious Clean Jokes That’ll Make Adults & Kids Laugh

Featured Articles

Am I Ready For A Relationship QuizWhy Is He Ignoring Me? 12 Possible Reasons (Plus, What to Do)A Complete Style Guide for the Gamine Kibbe Body TypeHow to Tell if You’re in LoveWhich Chaotic Evil Villain Am I QuizWhat Does It Mean If Someone Tries to Kill You in Your Dream?

Watch Articles

How toWrap a Round GiftHow toSteam in an OvenHow to Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesHow toClean a Silver Necklace4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of SodaHow toPart Your Hair

Trending Articles

Which Classic Christmas Movie Character Am I?Can We Guess If You're a Cat or Dog Person?What Am I Craving Quiz30 of the Hardest Riddles on Earth: The Harvard Riddle & BeyondWhich of the Big Three Are Your Parents? (Percy Jackson)How to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for Beginners

Quizzes & Games

What's My Minecraft Style QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Reality Check Do I Need QuizTake QuizWhat Song Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Tarot Card Am I QuizTake QuizOnly High IQ People Will Know 100% Of These Vocab WordsTake Quiz

• Categories
• Computers and Electronics
• Computer Networking
• Wireless Networking
• Wi Fi

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Level up your tech skills and stay ahead of the curve

Let's go! X --671