How to Use the Ethernet in Backtrack

Ethernet connnectivity provides BackTrack a fast and reliable network connection.

Penetration testing requires access to network resources, such as servers, websites, routers and printers. Ethernet is the wired network type found in most businesses and homes. Most recently manufactured computers provide an Ethernet connection access port for an RJ-45 connector. Once connected to the network, you can use tools available in Backtrack such as Wireshark and Nmap to explore and test. Backtrack takes the difficulty out of configuring tools you may need to accomplish your network-related tasks.

Things You'll Need

• BackTrack Version 5
• Ethernet connection

Instructions

1. Boot your computer from media containing the BackTrack 5 distribution. Select the option starting with the text "BackTrack Text -" and press "Enter" to continue.

2. Start the graphical interface at the command prompt "root@root:" with the command "startx" and press "Enter."

3. Select "Applications," "Internet" and ""WICD Network Manager" to start the network management application.

4. Click the button labelled "Connect" under the option "wired-default" to connect the computer to the Ethernet network.

5. Click the "x" on the menu bar of the "WICD Network Manager" to close the network management application.

6. Select "Applications," "Accessories" and "Terminal" to open a console window.

7. Type the command "ping www.google.com" and press "Enter" to verify your computer can access the Internet via the Ethernet interface.

References

• Ubuntu Documentation: WICD
• SourceForge: WIDC - Home
• Really Linux: Essential Commands for Linux Network Administration