Top Free & Open Source Cybersecurity Linux Distros

Although there is a proliferation of Free & Open Source Software (FOSS) tools for Cybersecurity, many of them are mediocre or worse in terms of their functionality, reliability, and usability. The Cybersecurity FOSS Linux distributions listed below contain pragmatic collections of proven FOSS cybersecurity tools, tools, and too suites. They are distinguished by their quality and popularity, and are categorized according to their major cybersecurity area emphasis: penetration testing, digital forensics, intrusion monitoring, etc.

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Top 5 Linux Cybersecurity Distros

Best General-Purpose Cybersecurity Tool Suite
Standard Install:
Live USB/VMware:
EDITORS'
 CHOICE 

The Kali Linux distribution (distro) includes the following other Editors’ Award-winning tools:
skipfish
THC Hydra
• aircrack-ng
• sqlmap
• nmap

Runner-Up General-Purpose Cybersecurity Tool Suite
Standard Install:
Live USB/VMware:
TOP
    PICK 
Editor Rating: 3.4 / 5

The BackBox Linux distribution (distro) includes the following other Editors’ Award-winning tools:
skipfish
THC Hydra
• aircrack-ng
• sqlmap
• nmap

Best Digital Forensics Tool Suite
TOP
    PICK 
Editor Rating: 3.6 / 5

Best Intrusion Detection System Tool Suite
TOP
    PICK 
Editor Rating: 3.7 / 5

Best Intentionally-Vulnerable Target Tool Suite
TOP
    PICK 
Editor Rating: 3.4 / 5

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