Harrykp ⚡️
Install PMKID Tools in Kali Linux

Install PMKID Tools in Kali Linux


pmkid hcxdumptool hcxtools Wifite kali linux security networking

If you’ve tried running Wifite on Kali Linux and seen a warning or failure when attempting the PMKID attack, you’re not alone.

By default, Kali does not ship with hcxpcapngtool and hcxdumptool, which are essential for performing this attack. Without them, Wifite will skip the PMKID method entirely.

Quick Install — One Command Setup

If you just want to get everything installed fast, you can run my ready-made installation script directly from GitHub Gist:

Make sure to run this script as root or with sudo privileges. You can use Root Terminal Emulator.

bash <(curl -s https://gist.githubusercontent.com/Harry-kp/76bcb13a27e3b08ba208df33a01108d6/raw/f90fa4ec28ac02ee13b9b0566581f939c80836b9/install_pmkid_tools.sh)

Screenshot of terminal running quick install script

What this script does:

  • Installs dependencies
  • Clones hcxtools & hcxdumptool from GitHub
  • Compiles & installs them
  • Prints versions to confirm installation

What is Wifite?

Wifite is an automated wireless attack tool designed to test the security of Wi-Fi networks. It supports multiple attack vectors like WPA handshake capture, WPS PIN brute-forcing, and PMKID attacks.

It’s particularly useful because it chains together various tools under the hood (like aircrack-ng, reaver, and hcxdumptool) into a single automated workflow.

Step-by-Step Installation (Manual Method)

If you prefer to install manually(if you are the one who don’t want to run the unknown bash file 🕵️‍♂️) or want to understand the process, follow these steps:

Step 1 — Update Package Lists and Install Dependencies

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install libcurl4-openssl-dev libssl-dev zlib1g-dev libpcap-dev -y

Step 2 — Install hcxpcapngtool

git clone https://github.com/ZerBea/hcxtools.git
cd hcxtools
sudo make && sudo make install

Step 3 — Install hcxdumptool

cd ..
git clone https://github.com/ZerBea/hcxdumptool.git
cd hcxdumptool
sudo make && sudo make install

Step 4 — Verify Installation

hcxdumptool -h
hcxtools -h

If both commands return help menus, you’re good to go!

Using Them with Wifite

Once both tools are installed, Wifite will automatically detect them and enable the PMKID attack option.

sudo wifite

If your wireless card supports monitor mode and packet injection, Wifite will now be able to capture PMKIDs in addition to traditional WPA handshakes.

This guide is for educational purposes only. You should only perform these attacks on networks you own or have explicit permission to test. Unauthorized use of these tools is illegal and punishable under cybercrime laws.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the official repos — both tools are actively updated, so pulling the latest commits regularly ensures you have new features and bug fixes.