📡 Kali Linux Not Detecting WiFi Adapter? Here’s the 2025 Fix

Kali Linux is powerful for ethical hacking — but if your WiFi adapter isn’t showing up, it’s useless. This is one of the most common issues with Kali on VirtualBox, VMware, or dual boot. Let’s fix it properly for 2025.

❓ Problem Summary

• WiFi not detected in ifconfig or iwconfig
• Wireless networks missing
• wlan0 interface not found
• Monitor mode tools (like airodump-ng) not working

✅ Step-by-Step Fixes

1. Check If Adapter Supports Monitor Mode

Run this command:

iw list

If it shows “monitor” under Supported interface modes → good. If not, your card can’t be used for Kali WiFi hacks.

2. Check If Adapter is Recognized by Kali

lsusb

Output should list your adapter (e.g. Realtek, Atheros, MediaTek, etc.)

3. Install Required Drivers (Common Chipsets)

✅ Realtek RTL8812AU/8821AU:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y realtek-rtl88xxau-dkms

✅ Mediatek MT7612U:

sudo apt install mt76-dkms

✅ Atheros AR9271:

Usually plug & play. If not:

sudo apt install firmware-atheros

4. Enable the WiFi Interface

sudo ip link set wlan0 up

If "wlan0" doesn’t exist, your drivers may still be missing.

5. Fix VirtualBox Not Passing USB WiFi

• Install Extension Pack
• Add USB filter for your WiFi adapter (Devices > USB > Your Adapter)
• Ensure USB 2.0/3.0 is enabled

6. Use USB 2.0 Port (Not 3.0)

Some older WiFi chipsets have issues with USB 3.0. Try switching ports.

7. Update Kali Kernel & Headers

Some drivers require updated kernel headers:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
sudo apt install linux-headers-$(uname -r)

8. Enable Monitor Mode (Optional)

To enable monitor mode:

sudo ip link set wlan0 down
sudo iw dev wlan0 set type monitor
sudo ip link set wlan0 up

🧠 Final Thoughts

WiFi issues in Kali Linux are common — especially with VirtualBox, VMware, and USB adapters. But 99% of the time, it’s just a missing driver or wrong setup. This guide should help you get connected and ready for penetration testing in 2025.

💬 Still stuck? Drop a comment on Tsupports.blogspot.com and we’ll help!