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Kali Linux screenshot

Kali Linux

Kali Linux (formerly known as BackTrack) is a Debian-based distribution with a collection of security and forensics tools. It features timely security updates, support for the ARM architecture, a choice of four popular desktop environments, and seamless upgrades to newer versions.

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KaOS screenshot

KaOS

KaOS is a desktop Linux distribution that features the latest version of the Noctalia desktop environment, the Calligra office suite, and other popular software applications that use the Qt toolkit. It was inspired by Arch Linux, but the developers build their own packages which are available from in-house repositories.

Technical Specs Comparison
Kali LinuxKaOS
Debian (Testing)BaseIndependent
apt / debPackage Managerpacman / pkg
systemdInit Systemsystemd
Rolling ReleaseRelease ModelRolling Release
2026.1Latest Version2026.02
IntermediateDifficultyIntermediate
March 24, 2026Release DateFebruary 15, 2026
ARM64x86_64
Architecture
ARM64x86_64
GNOMEKDE PlasmaXfceniriNoctalia
Desktops
GNOMEKDE PlasmaXfceniriNoctalia