Which OS do real hackers actually use? Is it really Kali? Or something else? : hacking | Torhoo darknet markets

use qubes

Kali is just basic linus with all the tools pre-loaded into the os.
and hackers use linux,windows,macos.
Os doesn't matters. All the tools are available on all os.

real hackers use windows inside a windows VM

Yes, many "hackers" use Kali Linux, but it's just a tool, essentially a Linux distribution with pre-installed security tools. There are other options as well, like Parrot OS or BlackArch. Choosing one or the other won’t make a big difference. You can also customize any popular Linux distro (like Debian-, Arch-, or Ubuntu-based systems), or go for a more privacy-focused one like Tails or Whonix.

To stay anonymous, use the Tor network. In some cases, you can use a VPN (Mullvad is currently one of the most privacy-respecting options), but remember that VPNs are generally less secure than Tor. For better anonymity, consider using privacy-oriented operating systems like Tails, Whonix, Qubes OS or create your own secure setup. Everything more then that you need to learn.

Distros like Kali, Parrot are maintained by a solid community/company and are fine.

Check out Kali Tools page or Blackarch Tools List.

Experience with the tools is what make any craftsman skilled.

Also. Pro Tip

Learn docker and or Kubernetes ;)

My easy setup:
Luks encrypted Parrot Security USB
Parrot utilizes the Tor network with system wide anonsurf mode.

Getting to know OWASP ZAP and Zenmap ATM.

Parrot < Kali

[pending moderation]

Try different os, learn their advantages and disadvantages. Learn opsec and how to search for informations if u wanna be a hacker lol

I check comments, no real answer so I answer. Kali no, it just linux os with bunch of bloat code, u dont want that security risk. Real hacker use Arch because almost zero bloat or Qubes + whonix there is bloat but better then rest of garbage OS. U ask tools I give u.

Network :VPN, Proxy and Computer Relays like Tor but be more creative that is meaning of hacking.
Device: Encryption, FOSS (create your own if possible), MFA is powerful use where u can
Hardware: pick your computer part with caution but dont search best anonymous computer honey pot my friend create your own, replicate best anonymous computer you search
Account: FOSS, MFA
Tools: I can not promote because there is rule no promote on dread but find tool for attack and defense brother

Do not ask to be anonymous, y? because no1 will tell u. The more a person knows how u r anonymous the easier the anonymous person can get caught by the pigs. Create your own anonymous method be creative do not follow guide like it is a bible, create bible.

A lot more I could say but that is for u to find my friend

thing to know is source everything yourself, if it is not yours you cannot see all vulnerabilities. BE CREATIVE take this very serious DO NOT follow other person actions because it look good, create it your own and do not reveal what u create or else u set yourself up for a disaster that will unfold if not found fast enough

Good luck my friend

kali linux is known as hacker os because it has a lot of tools preinstalled. OS choice for "hackers" depends on what field they're working in. most common ones are linux distros like arch, qubes, kali, REMnux. some people prefer windows, especially when working with windows related hacking.

Kali is suggested because most tutorials use tools already installed on Kali.

If you want to be a real hacker, install linux yourself and install the tools you need. Why do you need hundreds of random tools that you have no understanding are doing to your machine out of the install? Install ubuntu, learn how to configure your vpn/tor, and install the tools you need. There is no hacker os because hackers make their own shit work for them. They do not use preconfigured garbage.

Kali Linux is popular because it comes preloaded with many hacking tools, making it great for beginners and some pros. However, many experienced hackers prefer more customizable setups using lightweight distros like Arch, Debian, or even OpenBSD, tailoring their environment for stealth and performance. For anonymity, tools like Tor and VPNs are common starting points, but advanced users combine layered proxies, Tails OS, and operational security (OPSEC) practices like compartmentalization and avoiding digital footprints. The key is understanding the tools and adapting them to your specific needs. Keep learning and experimenting!

The first thing you should do is learn to program, C, C ++ and assembly language, if you want to make malware is the first thing you should learn, not the operating system used by hackers. It's like a locksmith do not give him a course on how to open locks, they teach how they distribute, how to make keys, etc. When he has a certain knowledge of how they work, he realizes that he could open any lock without having been his initial goal.

a VPS + Tails. All you need -skills .

Ask ten different people and get ten different answers. I've encountered hackers who swear by every major and minor OS out there.

Kali is popular because it comes preloaded with a wide range of tools, making it a go-to choice for some scenarios. For high-security needs, Qubes OS is the best option. When navigating the darknet, Whonix is an excellent choice. I've seen plenty of hackers using Windows, and just as many using various Linux distributions. If you just want something preloaded with tools and you don't like Kali, Parrot exists. I'd honestly say Windows is very popular among most hackers simply for convenience purposes. If you choose that option, I recommend making some configuration changes for better privacy and security.

To maintain anonymity, Tor is the gold standard. If Tor isn't feasible, consider using a proxy or a VPN. In some situations, neither Tor nor a VPN may be suitable, and you might need to resort to something like a residential proxy.

The best hackster i knew used Windows server datacentre edition