Parrot 6.0 Release, based on Debian 12 and Linux Kernel 6.5

 

Parrot (formerly Parrot Security OS) is a Debian-based, security-oriented distribution featuring a collection of utilities designed for penetration testing, computer forensics, reverse engineering, hacking, privacy, anonymity and cryptography. The product, developed by Frozenbox, comes with MATE as the default desktop environment.

What's new in Parrot OS 6

Main system

• Debian 12: The system has been updated to be based on the newly released Debian 12, offering enhanced stability and features.
• Linux Kernel 6.5: Incorporates the latest Linux kernel with additional patches for network sniffing and injection, enhancing cybersecurity capabilities, and of course better performance and native support for the latest intel and amd CPUs.
• Advanced DKMS and Wi-Fi Drivers: Includes backported DKMS modules for Linux kernel 6.5, covering extra Wi-Fi drivers for improved network analysis and the latest Nvidia drivers for better hardware compatibility.
• Pentesting tools updated: All penetration testing tools have been updated, ensuring users have access to the latest methods and techniques.
• Updated Libraries and Python 3.11: The introduction of new libc6 and Python 3.11 allows several system tools to be upgraded to their latest versions.
• Updated System appearance: Slight modifications have been made to the system's graphical interface, providing a fresh look.
• Experimental containerization for unsupported tools: Experimental feature that allows containerizing tools not currently supported by the system, improving flexibility. This will enable future versions of parrot to bring in several tools that were either deprecated/dropped in the past, or that were never added before due to their integration complexity.
• Grub Fail-Safe Boot options: Grub bootloader patches reintroduced to ensure reliable and safe booting options.
• Improved Calamares installer: The installation process has been improved with updates to the Calamares installer.
• Audio System switch to Pipewire: Pipewire is now the default audio system, replacing PulseAudio, for better audio handling.
• VirtualBox from Debian Sid: VirtualBox has been backported and reintroduced from Debian Sid for enhanced virtualization support.

Raspberry Pi images

Not available actually. It will be out soon.

• New Builder for Core, Home, and Security Editions: A specialized builder has been introduced for these editions of Parrot OS, tailored to meet specific ParrotOS requirements. 
• Performance improvements: General improvements in system performance.
• Driver Updates: Updated drivers for better hardware compatibility.
• Raspberry Pi 5 Support: Added compatibility with the Raspberry Pi 5 device.
• SSH Key refresh improvement: Enhanced the process for refreshing SSH keys during the first boot.
• Default graphics driver activation: Graphics drivers are now enabled by default for improved out-of-the-box display performance.
• Raspberry Pi Imager integration: The system now integrates with the Raspberry Pi Imager tool for easier image writing and setup.

Alternate Install script

• New Installation Script: An updated script is now available, making it easier to install Parrot OS on Debian or Debian-based systems.
• Hack The Box Edition Packages: These specialized packages have been added, likely offering tools or features tailored for the Hack The Box platform.
• Link: https://gitlab.com/parrotsec/project/installer-script

Architect

• New Tasksel Layout: Introduction of an updated layout for Tasksel, enhancing the user experience during software selection.
• 32-bit deprecation: Phasing out of support for 32-bit systems, focusing on more modern architecture.
• Parrot-Core Installation Fix: Resolution of an issue where the upgrade of parrot-core would cause the installation process to hang.

Additional information can be found in the distribution's release notes.

Download Parrot 6.0