CyberSky OS
A lightweight Linux distribution for security professionals. A lean kernel, 300+ pre-installed tools, and access to tools from the Kali, Parrot and BlackArch ecosystems.
Overview
CyberSky OS is a Linux distribution for ethical hackers, penetration testers and defenders. It is built on Debian 12 “Bookworm”, with the kernel and system stripped of unnecessary components so it stays small, fast and easy to maintain.
You get a ready-to-use toolkit out of the box, and you can add more tools from other security distributions without installing a heavy second system.
Features
Lean kernel
Unused components and junk are removed from the kernel and system, so there is less bloat and more speed.
Stable Debian base
Built on Debian 12 “Bookworm”, a proven and well-supported foundation.
Light desktop
XFCE 4 keeps the interface fast, even on modest hardware.
300+ tools ready
A large toolkit is pre-installed, so you can start working right after boot.
Multiple tool sources
Install tools from the Kali, Parrot and BlackArch ecosystems from inside CyberSky OS.
One-command updates
Our custom command updates the system and manages tools in one place.
Docker-based
Tools and labs run in containers for isolation and repeatable results.
Built-in labs
Guided challenge rooms where you practice by solving real scenarios.
What’s inside
| Base system | Debian 12 “Bookworm” |
| Kernel | Slimmed down: unused components and junk removed for a lighter, faster system |
| Desktop environment | XFCE 4 |
| Pre-installed tools | 300+ (target for v1) |
| Additional tool sources | Kali, Parrot and BlackArch ecosystems (see Tool sources) |
| Containers | Docker |
| Image | Live ISO, about 4 to 6 GB (target) |
Toolkit categories
Tool sources
Instead of shipping three separate systems, CyberSky OS connects to the tool collections of three well-known security distributions. Install only what you need, when you need it.
Kali tools
Install tools from the Kali ecosystem.
PlannedParrot tools
Install tools from the Parrot ecosystem.
PlannedBlackArch tools
Install tools from the BlackArch ecosystem.
PlannedCustom commands
CyberSky OS includes its own command-line tool to update the system and manage tools from every source.
Update the system
$ skyctl update
Install a tool from a source
# choose a source: kali, parrot or blackarch $ skyctl install --source kali nmap $ skyctl install --source blackarch <tool-name>
Search and list
$ skyctl search <keyword> $ skyctl list --installed
Labs
CyberSky OS includes practice labs in the form of guided rooms. Each room is a scenario you solve step by step, capturing flags as you go. Labs run in Docker containers so they stay isolated from your system.
Linux basics
Commands, permissions and files.
BeginnerRecon & scanning
Map a target and find what is exposed.
IntermediateWeb hacking
Find and exploit web vulnerabilities.
IntermediateThe room list is planned content and will grow after the beta.
Quick start
Once the beta is released, getting started will take a few steps.
- Download the ISO from the Download section.
- Verify the checksum to confirm the file is genuine.
- Write the ISO to a USB drive with a tool such as balenaEtcher.
- Boot from the USB drive and try CyberSky OS live, or install it.
- Run the update command to get the latest tools.
Verify the download
$ sha256sum -c cybersky-os-beta.iso.sha256
Download
CyberSky OS v1 Beta
The beta ISO will be available here at release. Planned: December 2026.
| Version | v1 Beta |
| Size | About 4 to 6 GB (target) |
| Architecture | To be announced |
| SHA-256 checksum | Published with the release |
Requirements
Target requirements, to be confirmed before release.
| Processor | 64-bit CPU |
| Memory | 2 GB minimum, 4 GB or more recommended |
| Storage | 20 GB free for installation |
| Boot media | USB drive of 8 GB or more |
Roadmap
- v1 Beta – December 2026Lean Debian 12 base, XFCE 4, 300+ pre-installed tools, custom update command.
- Tool source integrationInstall tools from the Kali, Parrot and BlackArch ecosystems with one command.
- Expanded labsMore guided rooms across web, network and system security.
- CyberSky LabIsolated practice environments. Coming soon.
- CyberSky ShieldEdge and network defense. Coming soon.
Responsible use
Need help?
Questions about CyberSky OS or the beta release? Our team is here to help.