Kali Linux using Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 10

I wanted to experiment with running Kali using Windows Subsystem for Linux on Windows 10.  This will let you run native Linux command-line tools directly on Windows.  I created this guide to get you a Kali WSL install with Metasploit running on Windows 10.  If you want to install Metasploit directly in Windows without the Windows Subsystem for Linux, read after step #13.

1. Open and run Windows PowerShell as administrator
2. Enter the following command:
   Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -Online -FeatureName Microsoft-Windows-Subsystem-Linux
3. Reboot Windows
4. Open the Microsoft Store on Windows 10 and install Kali Linux
5. Launch Kali Linux when it is done installing and type a username and password when prompted.
6. Type: sudo apt-get update (enter password if prompted)
7. Type: sudo apt-get dist-upgrade
8. Type: sudo apt-get clean
9. Now we have to add the Kali Linux folder as an exception to the built-in Virus and threat protection so it doesn’t keep blocking/removing Metasploit:

Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection

Under Virus & threat protection settings, select Manage settings, and then under Exclusions, select Add or remove exclusions.

10. Add your Kali folder as an exclusion:
    Located under: %LocalAppData%\Packages\KaliLinux.<Package_ID>\LocalState
    Example: C:\Users\yourname\AppData\Local\Packages\KaliLinux.random##sandletters\LocalState
11. Now go back to your Kali Linux terminal and run this command to install Metasploit:
    sudo apt-get install metasploit-framework
12. Finally, run Metasploit by typing: msfconsole
13. Have fun experimenting and adding whatever else you want to Kali Linux

Also, if you just want to install Metasploit in Windows and are using the built-in virus and threat protection, you can download Metasploit Framework for Windows and add c:\metasploit-framework as an exclusion folder (like in step #9).  The msfconsole command and all related tools will be added to the system %PATH% environment variable so you can use Metasploit within Command Prompt.

These alternate methods may be helpful for someone who has limited resources on their computer (ex. RAM/CPU) and can benefit from running with the least amount of VMs as possible.  It’s also good to experiment with relatively new technology like Windows Subsystem for Linux.

I still highly recommend a full native Linux install or a Linux VM for familiarization and skill building.