How to enable wlan0 in kali linux

If wlan0 is not showing or not working in Kali Linux, here’s how to enable it step by step.

Step 1: Check if wlan0 Exists

Use the following command to list interfaces:

ip a

If you don’t see wlan0, it might be named differently (like wlp2s0). To force the system to use wlan0, add this boot parameter:

sudo nano /etc/default/grub

Find the line:

GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX=""

Change it to:

GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX="net.ifnames=0 biosdevname=0"

Then apply changes:

sudo update-grub
sudo reboot

Now it should show as wlan0.

Step 2: Enable the Interface

To bring the interface up:

sudo ip link set wlan0 up

Check status:

ip link show wlan0

If it’s still down or not found, continue below.

Step 3: Verify Wireless Adapter is Recognized

Check if your system sees the Wi-Fi adapter:

sudo lshw -C network

Or:

lsusb
lspci | grep -i wireless

If you see no wireless hardware, make sure it’s not disabled by the system or BIOS.

Step 4: Check rfkill Status

Sometimes wireless is blocked via rfkill:

rfkill list

If wlan is hard or soft blocked:

sudo rfkill unblock all

Then try:

sudo ip link set wlan0 up

Step 5: Install or Load Proper Driver

If you’re using a USB Wi-Fi adapter, it might need a driver.

Find the driver:

lsmod

Or manually load one:

sudo modprobe <driver-name>

If unsure, try installing firmware:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install firmware-linux firmware-realtek firmware-atheros

Then reboot.