# Kali Linux Course #666: util-linux Overview
## Introduction to util-linux
`util-linux` is a suite of essential system utilities that are mandatory for the Linux operating system. It provides a variety of tools that can be utilized for different system management tasks, data manipulation, and information retrieval. For penetration testers, understanding and leveraging these tools can greatly enhance your ability to analyze systems and gather intelligence.
In this section, we will cover the installation and configuration of `util-linux` on Kali Linux, usage of its various commands, and provide real-world use cases that can be instrumental during penetration testing engagements.
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## Installation and Configuration on Kali Linux
The `util-linux` package is usually pre-installed on Kali Linux distributions. However, to ensure you have the latest version, follow these steps:
### Step 1: Update your system
Open your terminal and run the following commands:
"`bash
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade
"`
### Step 2: Install util-linux
If for any reason `util-linux` is not installed, you can install it using the following command:
"`bash
sudo apt install util-linux
"`
### Step 3: Verify the installation
You can verify that `util-linux` has been installed correctly by checking its version:
"`bash
util-linux –version
"`
This should display the version of `util-linux`, confirming that the installation was successful.
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## Step-by-Step Usage and Real-World Use Cases
The `util-linux` package contains numerous commands, each serving different purposes. Here, we will focus on several key tools that are particularly useful in pentesting.
### 1. `fdisk`
**Usage:** Disk partitioning.
**Technical Explanation:** `fdisk` is a command-line utility that allows users to manipulate disk partitions. It can be used to create, delete, or modify partitions on a storage device. During a penetration test, inspecting the partition layout can reveal how data is stored and possibly expose sensitive information.
**Example Command:**
"`bash
sudo fdisk -l
"`
This lists all disk partitions, showing sizes and types.
**Real-World Use Case:** By analyzing partitions, pentesters can identify unused partitions that may contain sensitive data or backups.
### 2. `mount`
**Usage:** Filesystem mounting.
**Technical Explanation:** The `mount` command is used to attach filesystems to the file hierarchy at a specified mount point. It allows access to filesystem data on devices.
**Example Command to mount a USB drive:**
"`bash
sudo mount /dev/sdb1 /mnt/usb
"`
**Real-World Use Case:** When performing a physical security assessment, a pentester may need to access files on a USB drive that has been plugged into a system. Mounting the filesystem enables reading and analyzing those files.
### 3. `umount`
**Usage:** Filesystem unmounting.
**Technical Explanation:** This is the counterpart to `mount` and is used to detach the filesystem from the directory tree.
**Example Command:**
"`bash
sudo umount /mnt/usb
"`
**Real-World Use Case:** After accessing the data from a mounted USB, it’s vital to properly unmount the filesystem to avoid data corruption.
### 4. `lsblk`
**Usage:** List block devices.
**Technical Explanation:** `lsblk` lists block devices, providing information about their mount points and types. It is useful for understanding the layout of storage devices.
**Example Command:**
"`bash
lsblk
"`
**Real-World Use Case:** During a pentest, a tester might need to quickly identify which devices are available, their sizes, and where they are mounted.
### 5. `blkid`
**Usage:** Locate/identify block devices.
**Technical Explanation:** This command shows the attributes of block devices, including filesystem type and UUID.
**Example Command:**
"`bash
sudo blkid
"`
**Real-World Use Case:** Gathering UUIDs and filesystem types can be essential for preparing accurate documentation and reports on devices accessed during a pentest.
—
## Detailed Technical Explanations and External References
1. **fdisk**: More information can be found in the official Linux man pages: [fdisk man page](https://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/fdisk.8.html).
2. **mount**: For comprehensive usage details, refer to [mount man page](https://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/mount.8.html).
3. **lsblk**: The functionality of `lsblk` is described in the man pages: [lsblk man page](https://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/lsblk.8.html).
4. **blkid**: Additional usage and options are outlined in the [blkid man page](https://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/blkid.8.html).
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## Conclusion
Understanding and utilizing the `util-linux` suite is invaluable for any penetration tester. The tools covered in this section provide essential functionality for system manipulation, analysis, and reporting. Mastery of these commands equips testers with the capabilities needed to assess vulnerabilities effectively and gather critical intelligence.
This course aims to give you a foundational knowledge of `util-linux`, and as you progress, you will discover more advanced functionalities and workflows that can enhance your penetration testing endeavors.
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Made by pablo rotem / פבלו רותם