Can I run Kali Linux on macOS using Apple's new containerization feature?

Table of Contents

• What is Apple’s Containerization?
• Why This Is a Big Deal for Cybersecurity
• How It Works on macOS Sequoia 15
• Key Benefits of Apple’s Container System
• Any Drawbacks?
• Why It Matters for Security Experts
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Apple has quietly introduced a powerful new feature in macOS during its WWDC 2025 event. This feature is called Containerization, and it allows Mac users to run Linux containers — like Kali Linux — directly on their Mac systems. This is a big step for developers and cybersecurity professionals.

Let’s break it down in simple words.

What is Apple’s Containerization?

Containerization is a way to run applications or even full operating systems like Kali Linux inside something called a container. It’s similar to how Docker works, but Apple’s version is more secure and faster.

With this new feature, every container runs in its own small virtual machine (VM). That means more security because apps are isolated from each other. Even if something goes wrong in one container, it won’t affect others or your main system.

Why This Is a Big Deal for Cybersecurity

For many years, people using Mac computers had to either install full virtual machines (which are slow and heavy) or use Docker (which uses a shared virtual machine for all containers). Apple’s new tool solves both problems.

Now, you can:

• Run Kali Linux — a popular system for penetration testing — directly on your Mac.

• Enjoy faster boot times (less than one second).

  
  

• Get stronger security, because each container runs in its own VM.

• Avoid using Docker Desktop, which uses a lot of system resources.

How It Works on macOS Sequoia 15

Here’s what you need to get started:

1. Install the tool using Homebrew:

   brew install --cask container
   

2. Start the container system:

   container system start
   

3. When prompted, accept to download the Kata Containers kernel (a lightweight Linux kernel).

4. Run Kali Linux:

   container run --rm -it kalilinux/kali-rolling
   

You’ll be inside a full Kali shell in just a few seconds!

If you want to save your work, you can mount your current directory like this:

container run --rm -it -v $(pwd):/mnt -w /mnt kalilinux/kali-rolling

Key Benefits of Apple’s Container System

Any Drawbacks?

Yes, a few things are still being improved:

• Some containers don’t get IP addresses or lose DNS — Apple is fixing this.

• Only works on Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3 chips) — Intel Macs are not supported.

• Full networking features will come in macOS 26 “Tahoe”, expected this fall.

Why It Matters for Security Experts

Kali Linux is the go-to tool for penetration testers. Until now, using it on a Mac was clunky and slow. Apple’s new feature makes it smooth, fast, and integrated. You don’t need extra tools or complicated setups.

Security professionals often carry extra laptops just for Kali. Now, your Mac can do it all — making life easier for red teams and ethical hackers.

Conclusion

Apple’s containerization stack is a game-changer for macOS. It bridges the gap between Mac hardware and Linux tools like Kali. With strong isolation, lightning-fast startup, and easy integration, cybersecurity professionals now have a powerful new tool — right inside their Mac.

Whether you’re a developer, ethical hacker, or just curious, this new feature is definitely worth exploring. And with Apple promising continued updates and open-source development, the future of secure Linux environments on Mac looks very bright.

FAQs

What is Apple’s containerization feature in macOS?

Apple’s containerization feature is a new way to run Linux containers like Kali Linux in isolated, lightweight virtual machines on macOS, improving performance and security.

Can I run Kali Linux on macOS using Apple containers?

Yes, you can run Kali Linux directly using Apple’s container CLI tool without installing full VMs or Docker.

Is Apple’s container system faster than Docker Desktop?

Yes, Apple’s container system boots in under a second and uses fewer resources compared to Docker Desktop.

Do Apple containers support networking?

Basic networking works, but full networking features (like persistent IP and DNS) will be fully supported in macOS 26 “Tahoe.”

What are the system requirements for running Apple containers?

You need a Mac with Apple Silicon (M1, M2, or M3). Intel Macs are not supported.

Is the container system available on Intel Macs?

No, it only works on Apple Silicon devices running macOS Sequoia 15 or later.

How do I install the container CLI on macOS?

You can install it using Homebrew:

Can I use Docker images with Apple’s container system?

Yes, Apple’s system is compatible with Docker images like kalilinux/kali-rolling.

Is this feature useful for cybersecurity professionals?

Yes, it allows ethical hackers and red teams to run Kali Linux natively on Mac for pentesting tasks.

Is containerization more secure than Docker?

Yes, because each container runs in its own isolated virtual machine, providing stronger security boundaries.

How do I mount a folder when running Kali Linux in a container?

You can use:

What makes Apple’s container system unique?

Each container runs in its own virtual machine (like a mini computer), which is faster and more secure than traditional Docker containers.

Can I save my work inside a container?

Yes, by mounting local directories inside the container, you can save and access your work.

Does this replace the need for Docker Desktop?

Yes, Apple’s solution is lighter, faster, and doesn't require a shared background VM like Docker Desktop.

Can I use Apple containers for penetration testing?

Absolutely. It’s ideal for ethical hacking and security research using Kali Linux tools.

Is there any official documentation from Apple?

Apple introduced it quietly at WWDC 2025. Full documentation is expected closer to the release of macOS 26.

Will this feature support other Linux distros?

Yes, any Docker-compatible Linux image can be used with Apple’s container CLI.

What happens if a container crashes?

It’s isolated, so your main system and other containers are unaffected.

Is container CLI an open-source tool?

Parts of the containerization stack are being open-sourced by Apple, especially the hypervisor components.

How is this better than using VirtualBox or Parallels?

It’s faster, more secure, and uses fewer resources. Plus, it integrates natively with macOS.

When will networking bugs be fixed?

Apple plans to resolve DNS and IP issues in the upcoming macOS 26 “Tahoe” update.

Can I use container CLI for development purposes?

Yes, it supports development workflows like testing apps in Linux environments on Mac.

Is this good for students learning ethical hacking?

Yes, students can easily run Kali Linux on their Macs without dual booting or setting up heavy VMs.

How much memory does each container use?

Since each container is isolated but lightweight, memory usage is much lower than traditional VMs.

What kernel does Apple use for containers?

It downloads a version of the Kata Containers kernel — a minimal Linux kernel optimized for containers.

Do containers share files with the host?

Only if you explicitly mount a volume (directory) from your Mac into the container.

Are updates automatic for the container CLI tool?

You’ll need to update it manually using Homebrew unless automated scripts are set up.

Can I use the same containers across different Macs?

Yes, if they are all Apple Silicon and running compatible macOS versions.

Will third-party apps support this soon?

Developers are already exploring support, especially in DevOps and cybersecurity toolchains.

Does this feature require extra licenses?

No, it’s a free part of macOS for supported devices.

How do I switch back to Docker if needed?

You can install Docker Desktop separately and continue using it — the two systems can coexist.

Is there GUI support in Apple containers?

Currently, Apple containers are CLI-based. GUI support might come in future releases or via third-party tools.