Kali Linux is a powerful operating system extensively used by cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers for conducting penetration tests. Within this OS, a variety of security testing tools and vulnerability analysis software are bundled. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a commonly used protocol for remote connections and can play a crucial role during the pentesting process. In this article, we will explore the best RDP tools that you can use in Kali Linux during your pentesting endeavors.
1 FreeRDP
FreeRDP is an open-source RDP client and one of the fundamental components in Kali Linux. It allows you to connect to and manage remote systems. FreeRDP supports remote desktop connections to Windows-based systems and offers advanced features. Its simple command-line interface also makes it suitable for automation purposes.
2 Remmina
Remmina is a useful tool on Kali Linux for managing multiple remote desktop protocols. In addition to RDP, it supports VNC, SSH, NX, SPICE, and other protocols. Its user-friendly interface allows you to manage various remote desktop sessions within a single window efficiently
3 rdesktop
rdesktop is an old but reliable RDP client used on Linux systems. It is employed to access target Windows systems. With its straightforward command-line interface, rdesktop is easy to use. While it supports specific RDP features, it is a good option for connecting to remote desktop sessions
4 xfreerdp
xfreerdp serves as a frontend for FreeRDP on the X Window System. It provides the advantages of FreeRDP along with a graphical user interface for a more user-friendly experience. It is an ideal choice for creating RDP sessions in Linux desktop environments. Additionally, it can be used in command-line mode for automation and script execution
5 Vinagre
Vinagre is another multi-protocol remote desktop client available in Kali Linux. Along with RDP, it supports VNC, SSH, and other protocols. Vinagre offers a simple and easy-to-use interface, making it an effective tool for managing multiple remote desktop sessions
Conclusion
In this article, we have covered some of the best RDP tools that can be used in Kali Linux during pentesting activities. The choice of the most suitable tool depends on your specific needs and preferences. Effectively using these tools will allow you to access remote systems during security tests and analyze the vulnerabilities you identify.
Always remember that pentesting should be conducted on legal and authorized systems. Adhere to ethical hacking principles, obtain proper permissions from system owners, and refrain from engaging in any illegal activities, as unlawful actions can lead to serious legal consequences.
