How to Get Started with Parrot OS in 2025 ? A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide to Installation, Setup, and Essential Tools

Table of Contents

• What Is Parrot OS?
• Why Choose Parrot OS in 2025?
• System Requirements for Parrot OS
• How to Download Parrot OS
• How to Install Parrot OS: Step-by-Step
• Basic Parrot OS Setup After Installation
• Essential Tools for Beginners on Parrot OS
• Tips for Learning Parrot OS Effectively
• Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Why Parrot OS Is a Must-Try for Beginners in 2025
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you're a beginner looking to dive into the world of cybersecurity, ethical hacking, or privacy-focused computing in 2025, Parrot OS is one of the best Linux distributions to get started with. Known for its robust security tools and privacy-centric features, Parrot OS offers a versatile platform that is beginner-friendly yet powerful enough for professionals.

This detailed guide will walk you through what Parrot OS is, why it’s a great choice for beginners, how to install it, and how to get started with essential tools. Whether you want to learn ethical hacking, protect your privacy, or just explore Linux, this guide has you covered.

What Is Parrot OS?

Parrot OS is a security-focused, Debian-based Linux distribution designed for penetration testing, digital forensics, and privacy protection. It combines a lightweight desktop environment with a comprehensive suite of security tools.

• Developed and maintained by a community of cybersecurity enthusiasts.

• Offers pre-installed tools for ethical hacking, vulnerability assessment, cryptography, and more.

• Prioritizes user privacy by including anonymizing features and secure communication options.

Why Choose Parrot OS in 2025?

In 2025, Parrot OS continues to be a top choice for many reasons:

• Beginner-Friendly Interface: Parrot OS uses the MATE desktop environment, which is clean, fast, and easy to navigate.

  
  

• Preloaded Security Tools: Comes with hundreds of tools pre-installed, eliminating the hassle of setting up your environment.

• Privacy and Anonymity: Includes Tor, Anonsurf, and other tools to help you browse anonymously.

• Regular Updates: Active community ensures timely updates and new tools.

• Lightweight and Flexible: Runs efficiently even on older hardware.

• Great for Learning: Perfect for students and beginners wanting hands-on experience in cybersecurity.

System Requirements for Parrot OS

Before installing Parrot OS, ensure your system meets these minimum requirements:

How to Download Parrot OS

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to https://www.parrotsec.org to download the latest version.

2. Choose the Edition: Parrot OS comes in several editions:

   • Home Edition: Focused on privacy and daily use.

   • Security Edition: Includes full suite of penetration testing tools.

   • Parrot ARM: For ARM-based devices like Raspberry Pi.

3. Download the ISO: Select the appropriate ISO file for your system (64-bit is standard for most users).

How to Install Parrot OS: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Create a Bootable USB

• Use software like Rufus (Windows), Etcher (Mac/Linux), or the command line to create a bootable USB drive with the Parrot OS ISO.

Step 2: Boot from USB

• Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You may need to change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI.

Step 3: Choose Installation Option

• You can try Parrot OS in live mode or proceed to install.

• Select Install Parrot to start the guided installation.

Step 4: Partition Your Disk

• Choose automatic partitioning for beginners.

• Manual partitioning is also available for advanced users.

Step 5: Set Up User Credentials

• Enter your username, password, and hostname.

Step 6: Complete Installation

• Follow on-screen instructions to finish.

• Reboot your system and remove the USB drive.

Basic Parrot OS Setup After Installation

Once installed, here’s how to get started:

• Update Your System:
  Open the terminal and run:

  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
  

• Familiarize Yourself with the Desktop:
  Explore the MATE desktop environment menus.

• Install Additional Software:
  Use the terminal or the Parrot Store to add software.

• Explore Pre-installed Security Tools:
  Tools like Nmap, Wireshark, Metasploit, and Tor are ready to use.

Essential Tools for Beginners on Parrot OS

Tips for Learning Parrot OS Effectively

• Start with Tutorials: Use beginner-friendly resources and YouTube channels.

• Join Communities: Forums like Reddit’s r/ParrotSec and official Parrot OS Discord help with support.

• Practice Ethical Hacking: Always use your skills responsibly and legally.

• Experiment in Virtual Machines: Use VirtualBox or VMware to run Parrot OS safely without affecting your main OS.

• Keep Your System Updated: Cybersecurity is constantly evolving; updates keep your tools effective.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why Parrot OS Is a Must-Try for Beginners in 2025

• Combines usability with professional-grade tools.

• Designed to protect your privacy in an increasingly digital world.

• Offers a practical way to learn cybersecurity hands-on.

• Has an active and helpful community.

• Lightweight enough for most modern and older hardware.

Conclusion

Parrot OS is a powerful yet accessible platform for anyone wanting to explore cybersecurity, ethical hacking, or privacy in 2025. With a clean interface, tons of built-in tools, and a supportive community, it’s perfect for beginners ready to take the plunge.

Download, install, and start experimenting today — your journey into the world of secure computing and ethical hacking begins here!

FAQs 

What is Parrot OS used for?

Parrot OS is used for cybersecurity, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and privacy protection.

Is Parrot OS good for beginners?

Yes, it offers a user-friendly interface with pre-installed security tools, making it ideal for beginners.

How do I install Parrot OS?

You can install Parrot OS by downloading the ISO from the official site, creating a bootable USB, and following the installation wizard.

What are the system requirements for Parrot OS?

At least 2 GB RAM, 20 GB storage, and a 1 GHz dual-core CPU are recommended.

Is Parrot OS free to use?

Yes, Parrot OS is completely free and open-source.

What desktop environment does Parrot OS use?

Parrot OS uses the MATE desktop environment by default.

Can I use Parrot OS for daily tasks?

Yes, especially the Home edition is designed for everyday use with privacy features.

Does Parrot OS support Wi-Fi out of the box?

Yes, Parrot OS supports most common Wi-Fi adapters.

Is Parrot OS safe for anonymous browsing?

Yes, it includes Tor and Anonsurf to help maintain anonymity online.

Can I install additional software on Parrot OS?

Yes, you can use APT package manager or the Parrot Store.

What is the difference between Parrot Home and Security editions?

Home edition focuses on privacy and daily use; Security edition includes advanced pentesting tools.

Does Parrot OS get regular updates?

Yes, it receives frequent updates from the development community.

Can Parrot OS run on older computers?

Yes, it’s lightweight and runs well on older hardware.

Is Parrot OS based on Debian or Ubuntu?

Parrot OS is based on Debian.

How do I update Parrot OS?

Use the terminal command sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y.

Can I dual boot Parrot OS with Windows?

Yes, you can install Parrot OS alongside Windows.

What are some essential tools pre-installed on Parrot OS?

Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, John the Ripper, and Tor Browser.

Is Parrot OS suitable for ethical hacking certification training?

Yes, many cybersecurity training programs recommend Parrot OS.

How can I learn to use Parrot OS effectively?

Start with tutorials, join online forums, and practice in virtual machines.

Can Parrot OS be used on ARM devices?

Yes, there’s a special ARM version for devices like Raspberry Pi.

What is Anonsurf in Parrot OS?

Anonsurf is a tool that routes your internet traffic through Tor for anonymity.

Does Parrot OS come with a firewall?

Yes, Parrot OS includes firewall utilities to enhance security.

How do I create a bootable USB for Parrot OS?

Use tools like Rufus or Etcher with the downloaded ISO file.

Can Parrot OS be used for programming?

Yes, it supports various programming languages and IDEs.

Is technical support available for Parrot OS?

Community forums, Discord, and official documentation offer support.

What should I do if my hardware isn’t recognized by Parrot OS?

Check for drivers, update the kernel, or ask in community forums.

Can I use Parrot OS for web browsing securely?

Yes, it includes privacy tools like Tor and secure browsers.

How do I remove Parrot OS from my system?

Use a live USB to boot into another OS and reformat the Parrot OS partitions.

Is Parrot OS compatible with virtualization software?

Yes, it works well with VirtualBox, VMware, and others.

How often does Parrot OS release new versions?

New stable versions are released approximately every 6 months.