Checking and Setting Network Parameters
Managing network interfaces is vital for a hacker. You need to verify your IP address, ensure connectivity, and sometimes change your MAC address or configure tunnels.
Essential Network Commands
| Command | Description | Modern Alternative |
|---|---|---|
ifconfig | Displays/configures network interfaces. (Older) | ip a (IP Address) |
route | Views/modifies the routing table. (Older) | ip r (IP Route) |
ping | Tests connectivity to another host. | |
traceroute | Shows the path (hops) packets take to reach a destination. | |
netstat | Displays active network connections, routing tables, and interface statistics. (Often replaced by ss or ip utilities) |
Example: Checking IP Address on Kali
bash
Use 'ip a' (ip address)
ip a
This output will show interfaces (like eth0 or wlan0) and their assigned IP addresses, confirming if your VM has correctly obtained an IP from the virtual network.