Step-by-Step Guide: Changing DHCP to Static IP Address on Kali Linux via Command Line Interface (CLI)

Introduction:

In this tutorial, we will walk you through the process of changing your Kali Linux system's network configuration from DHCP to a static IP address using the Command Line Interface (CLI). This can be useful for scenarios where you require a fixed IP address for services or network management. Let's get started!

**Prerequisites:**

1. Kali Linux installed and running.

2. Access to the terminal with administrative privileges (sudo).

**Step 1: Open Terminal**

Launch the terminal on your Kali Linux system. You can do this by clicking on the terminal icon in the toolbar or by using the shortcut `Ctrl + Alt + T`.

**Step 2: Check Current Network Configuration**

Before making any changes, it's essential to know your current network configuration. Use the following command to view your current network settings:

```bash

ifconfig

```

This command will display network interfaces along with their configurations.

**Step 3: Identify the Network Interface**

Identify the network interface that you want to configure with a static IP address. Typically, the primary interface is named `eth0` or `eth1`, but it may vary. Take note of the interface name.

**Step 4: Backup Current Configuration (Optional)**

It's a good practice to back up your current network configuration before making changes. You can save a copy of the current configuration using:

```bash

sudo cp /etc/network/interfaces /etc/network/interfaces.backup

```

**Step 5: Edit the Network Configuration File**

Now, open the network configuration file for editing. You can use any text editor you prefer; here, we'll use `nano`:

```bash

sudo nano /etc/network/interfaces

```

**Step 6: Configure a Static IP Address**

Within the configuration file, locate the section that corresponds to your network interface. It may look something like this:

```bash

auto eth0

iface eth0 inet dhcp

```

Replace `iface eth0 inet dhcp` with the following lines:

```bash

iface eth0 inet static

    address Your_Static_IP_Address

    netmask Your_Subnet_Mask

    gateway Your_Gateway_IP_Address

    dns-nameservers Your_DNS_IP_Address

```

Replace `Your_Static_IP_Address`, `Your_Subnet_Mask`, `Your_Gateway_IP_Address`, and `Your_DNS_IP_Address` with your desired static IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS server IP address.

**Step 7: Save and Exit**

Save the changes by pressing `Ctrl + O`, then press `Enter`. Exit the text editor by pressing `Ctrl + X`.

**Step 8: Apply the Changes**

To apply the changes, restart the networking service:

```bash

sudo service networking restart

```

**Step 9: Verify the New Configuration**

Check if the changes have taken effect by running the `ifconfig` command again. Your network interface should now display the static IP address you configured.

**Step 10: Test Network Connectivity**

Test your network connectivity by pinging a known IP address or domain name to ensure that your Kali Linux system can reach the internet.

Congratulations! You've successfully changed your Kali Linux system from DHCP to a static IP address using the Command Line Interface (CLI). This can be particularly useful for network-based tasks and services that require a consistent IP address assignment.