How to Run ParrotOS on WSL2
In this tutorial, I will show you how to get ParrotOS running directly on WSL2, running Windows 10 (ver. 2004 / Build 19041 or higher) OR Windows 11 x64.
ParrotOS is very useful if you’re getting started in pen testing, as it already has all the useful tools installed that you need to get going.
As with any pen testing tools, you must only use it on your own equipment/networks or gain prior permission if it is not your own. This tutorial is for educational purposes only.
Prerequisites
Before we begin, make sure you have:
- Windows 10 version 2004 / Build 19041 or higher (or Windows 11 x64)
- WSL2 enabled on your system
- Administrator access to your Windows machine
Step 1: Set Up WSL2
If you haven’t already set up WSL2, you’ll need to do so first. Open PowerShell as Administrator and run:
wsl --install
This will install WSL with a default Ubuntu distribution. You can also install Kali Linux if you prefer:
wsl --install -d kali-linux
Make sure WSL2 is set as your default version:
wsl --set-default-version 2
Step 2: Install ParrotOS
Now for the main event. Open your WSL terminal and follow these steps:
Update Your System
First, update your existing packages:
sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade -y
Install Required Dependencies
Install gnupg and git:
apt install gnupg git -y
Clone the ParrotWSL Repository
Clone the ParrotWSL repository from GitHub:
git clone https://github.com/Prodject/ParrotWSL.git
Run the Installation Script
Navigate to the cloned directory and make the script executable:
cd ParrotWSL
sudo chmod a+x parrot-wsl.sh
Run the installation script:
sudo ./parrot-wsl.sh
Choose Your Installation Version
The script will present you with several options:
- Core Edition (minimal installation)
- Home Edition (general use)
- Full Edition (includes all tools)
For security testing purposes, I recommend the Full Edition as it includes all the penetration testing tools you’ll need.
Step 3: Optional - Install XRDP for GUI Access
If you want to use ParrotOS with a graphical interface, you can install XRDP:
sudo apt-get install xrdp
Start the XRDP server:
/etc/init.d/xrdp start
To connect to your ParrotOS GUI:
- Find your WSL IP address:
ip addr
- Open Remote Desktop Connection on Windows
- Enter the WSL IP address
- Login with your ParrotOS credentials
You can also create a simple bash script to automate starting RDP:
#!/bin/bash
/etc/init.d/xrdp start
ip addr
Important Security Note
Remember: The penetration testing tools included in ParrotOS are powerful and should only be used:
- On your own equipment
- On systems you have explicit permission to test
- In controlled, legal environments
As with any pen testing tools, you must only use it on your own equipment/networks or gain prior permission if it is not your own. This tutorial is for educational purposes only.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues:
- Make sure WSL2 is properly installed and running
- Check that virtualization is enabled in your BIOS
- Ensure you have enough disk space (ParrotOS Full Edition requires several GB)
- Try restarting the WSL service:
wsl --shutdown
then restart
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have ParrotOS running on WSL2. Enjoy using ParrotOS on WSL2!
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