Kali NetHunter on Xiaomi Redmi Note 7: Full Guide

Turning the popular Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 into a portable penetration testing station is a challenge that requires not only technical knowledge but also an understanding of the risks associated with system modification. Kali NetHunter is an Android security testing platform developed by Offensive Security, and installing it on a device with a Snapdragon 660 processor opens up access to powerful pentesting tools right in your pocket. However, the path from MIUI stock firmware to a full work environment is full of nuances that can not be ignored.

Before you start taking action, you need to realize that the NetHunter installation process involves unlocking the bootloader, obtaining superuser rights and replacing the system Recovery with a custom solution like TWRP. These manipulations inevitably lead to the complete removal of all user data from the device. Installing a custom image on the Redmi Note 7 can permanently block access to banking applications and Google Pay services unless additional measures are taken to hide root rights.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the process of preparing the device, choosing the right version of the firmware and direct installation of the system. We will consider the compatibility of the kernel, working with the Wi-Fi module and the features of the configuration. USB-It's important to understand that the success of the operation depends on the accuracy of each step and the quality of the firmware files used.

Preparation of the device and unlocking the loader

The first step in the way to creating a mobile hacking tool is to unlock the bootloader. Xiaomi uses its own security system that prevents you from installing third-party images without official permission. You will need a Mi Account account tied to the device and the Mi Unlock Tool utility on a Windows computer. The process is not instantaneous: after submitting an application, the system often requires you to wait 7 to 168 hours before the server allows unlocking.

After obtaining permission, you need to go to the Settings menu → About Phone → MIUI version and click on the build number several times to activate the developer menu. Next, in the advanced settings, you should enable Factory Unlock and USB Debugging. Only after that you can connect the smartphone to the PC and start the unlock procedure through Mi Unlock.

⚠️ Note: Unlocking the bootloader on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 automatically triggers the process of complete data cleanup (Wipe Data). Make sure that all photos, contacts and documents are saved in the cloud or on an external medium before the procedure begins.

It is worth noting that the unlocked bootloader displays a warning at each boot of the device, which is normal behavior for modified systems, and some applications, especially banking sectors and corporate customers, may refuse to work on such devices without using additional Magisk modules to hide the status of root rights.

Installation of custom Recovery TWRP

Standard recovery regime MIUI Recovery has limited functionality and does not allow you to install signed third-party ZIP-archives or img images. Kali NetHunter installation requires successful installation TWRP (For the Redmi Note 7 (codename lavender), you need to download a strictly corresponding version of the recovery, since using an image from another model can lead to a “brick” of the device.

Installation is done in Fastboot mode. To enter this mode, turn off your smartphone and press down and power buttons at the same time, then connect the USB cable to your computer. A firmware command is executed through the terminal or command line: fastboot recovery twrp-image-name.img. It is important to immediately after the firmware clip the combination of buttons to enter Recovery so that the system does not overwrite the custom recaveri with stock at the first boot.

In a TWRP environment, it is recommended to immediately clean the Data and Cache partitions completely to avoid file system conflicts when switching from stock MIUI to custom build. Also, the TWRP settings should include the ability to write to the system partition, although modern NetHunter installation methods often do without this, working through magic modules or individual images.

Selecting the Kali NetHunter version for the Redmi Note 7

The official support for the devices in the Kali NetHunter project is divided into categories: Full Support, Partial Support and Generic. Xiaomi Redmi Note 7 is based on the Qualcomm platform, which provides good compatibility, but the support status can vary. This model is most often used builds based on Android 10 or 11, as newer versions of Android may have restrictions on the operation of Wi-Fi drivers in monitor mode.

There are two main ways to install: through a magic module (for those who want to keep their main system) and full installation via TWRP. The first option is safer and allows you to easily roll back changes, the second one gives a deeper integration. Lavender is often recommended to use NetHunter Rootless images or dedicated community builds adapted to the MSM8953/SDM660 core.

When choosing a version, pay attention to the release date and user comments in the official GitLab repositories or on the XDA Developers forum. Using outdated builds can lead to unstable Wi-Fi adapter operation, which is a critical tool for the pentester.

Installation process through TWRP

If you choose the full installation path, copy it. ZIP-archive with Kali NetHunter firmware and related ZIP-a kernel file (if required separately) for internal memory or SD-- The map of the device. TWRP and make a full backup of the current system (Nandroid Backup) on the external media – this is your insurance against a fatal error.

Next, do Wipe Dalvik/ART Cache and Cache. In some cases, you need to format the Data partition (not just cleaning, but formatting to the file system) if you go from the encrypted stock firmware. After that, go to the Install menu, select the archive from NetHunter and confirm the installation by swipe.

After successfully installing flags and unpacking files, the system will suggest installing Magisk to manage root rights. This is an important step, since many Kali tools require super-user privileges. Once you install all the components, press Reboot System. The first download can take up to 5-10 minutes.

Setting up Wi-Fi and monitor mode

One of the main goals of installing Kali NetHunter on a smartphone is to audit wireless networks. The built-in Wi-Fi module of Redmi Note 7 (usually Qualcomm WCN3990) supports monitor and packet injection mode, but only with the right driver and core. In stock cores, this feature is often reduced, so the use of a custom core with mac80211 patches is a must.

To check for monitor mode support, run the terminal in the NetHunter Terminal application and type in the iwconfig command. If the wlan0 interface is displayed, try to switch it to monitor mode with the airmon-ng start wlan0 command. Successful creation of the wlan0mon interface indicates that the drivers are working correctly.

⚠️ Note: It is illegal to use monitor mode and conduct attacks on wireless networks without the permission of the network owner, and all activities are performed solely for training purposes or as part of a coordinated security audit.

If the built-in adapter does not support the necessary functions or works unstable, there is always the option of using external devices. USB Wi-Fi adapter via OTG-cable: Redmi Note 7 supports USB OTG, This allows you to connect compatible adapters with Atheros or Ralink chips that are guaranteed to work with Kali Linux.

Work with HID-attack USB-gadgetry

Kali NetHunter is famous for its ability to emulate USB-The device, turning the smartphone into a tool for HID-Human Interface Device: Connecting the Redmi Note 7 to a computer USB, You can make the target device's OS perceive the phone as a keyboard or a network card, and you can execute pre-programmed input scripts or bypass network protection.

To activate these functions, you need to turn on the appropriate modules in NetHunter settings and select the type of device to be emulated. A popular scenario is using the BadUSB function, which allows you to payloads when you connect to an unlocked PC. However, to work these functions on Xiaomi often requires a reflash of the controller. USB or use of special cores, as the stock controller can block the change PID/VID.

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Use quality. USB Type-C cable with data support. Cheap charging-only cables won't allow for functionality USB-gadgetry HID-attack.

Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) is also available through hotspot creation. A smartphone creates a Wi-Fi network, connects a victim, and all traffic passes through analysis tools like BetterCAP or SSLstrip installed in Kali. It's a powerful tool to demonstrate vulnerabilities in unencrypted protocols.

Frequent problems and their solution

The typical problems that can occur in the operation are that users often have no Internet connection in Kali, even though Wi-Fi is connected, and this is solved by checking the DNS settings and routing within the container or emulated environment, sometimes requiring manually prescribing the gateway or switching the interface to client mode.

Another common problem is fast battery discharge. Kali NetHunter with running scanning services consumes significantly more power than a standard MIUI. It is recommended to turn off unnecessary services, reduce brightness and use energy-saving core modes if available.

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The Kali NetHunter installation makes the Redmi Note 7 a powerful portable security auditing tool, but requires a deep understanding of Linux and the risks associated with modifying system software.