Description

Kali Linux 2026.2 is the June 2026 Installer release for 64-bit PCs, aimed at penetration testers, security researchers, and advanced Linux users who want a current offensive security platform. It is also available across the broader Kali lineup, including the Live and NetInstaller releases, with separate ARM64 builds for supported devices.

This release updates the desktop stack to GNOME 50 and KDE Plasma 6.6, refines service helper scripts for more consistent start and stop behavior, and introduces a new APT deb822 sources format for fresh installs. It also improves virtual machine boot performance by omitting graphics firmware in VM-aware installer flows, reducing initrd size and speeding startup. Kali Linux 2026.2 ships with Linux kernel 6.19, includes disruptive package changes that require rebooting after polkitd and xrdp upgrades, and adds nine new tools to the repositories, including arsenal-ng, legba, and tailscale.

As a rolling distribution, Kali Linux 2026.2 does not have a fixed end-of-life date. Security and feature updates continue through the Kali rolling branch after installation.

Read the official Kali Linux 2026.2 release notes for the full changelog and upgrade guidance.