Understanding the System Logs in Kali Linux on Hyper-V

These log messages show normal system initialization in Kali Linux Hyper-V VM. Let’s break down what’s happening:

Log Analysis

1. SSH Configuration Message

[ 205.763135] systemd-ssyh-generator: Configuration directory ‘/etc/ssh/’ does not exist! No units generated.

[ 205.763135] systemd-ssyh-generator: Configuration directory ‘/etc/ssh/’ does not exist! No units generated.

  • This is likely a typo in the log – it should say sshd not ssyh
  • Not a problem – This occurs when the system checks for SSH configuration during boot
  • No action needed – SSH is working fine in Kali Linux

2. Stunnel4 Service Compatibility Warning

[    205.794507] systemd-ssys-generator[615]: SysV service '/etc/init.d/stunnel4' lacks a native systemd unit file.
[ 205.798903] systemd-ssys-generator[615]: Please update package to include a native systemd unit file.
[ 205.800989] systemd-ssys-generator[615]: ! This compatibility logic is deprecated, expect removal soon.
  • This is harmless and expected in Kali Linux
  • Kali uses older SysV init scripts for some services (like stunnel4) for compatibility
  • The warning indicates the package will eventually need updating
  • No action needed – the service works fine despite this warning

3. Hyper-V Memory Balloon Message

[    454.918718] hv_balloon: Balloon request will be partially fulfilled. Balloon floor reached.
  • This is normal Hyper-V behavior – it means:
    • Your VM has reached its minimum allocated memory (“balloon floor”)
    • Hyper-V’s dynamic memory feature is working correctly
    • The VM is holding onto its minimum memory allocation

What This Means is..

  1. These are normal boot messages – your system is functioning correctly
  2. No action is required for any of these messages
  3. The SMBus warning from earlier is also harmless – it’s just a quirk of Hyper-V’s virtualization

Recommended Actions for Better Hyper-V Experience

While these logs aren’t problematic, here are some improvements for your Kali Linux Hyper-V VM:

1. Enable Enhanced Session Mode (for better graphics)

sudo apt update
sudo apt install -y xrdp xorgxrdp
sudo systemctl enable xrdp

2. Verify Hyper-V Integration Services

lsmod | grep hv_

You should see:

  • hv_vmbus
  • hv_netvsc
  • hv_utils
  • hv_storvsc
  • hv_balloon

3. Optimize VM Settings

  • Dynamic Memory: Set min 2GB, max 4-8GB
  • Processor: 2-4 cores
  • Secure Boot: Disabled (Kali’s kernel may not be signed)
  • Video Memory: 128MB

Summary

  • All these log messages are normal for Kali Linux in Hyper-V
  • The stunnel4 warning is harmless and doesn’t affect functionality
  • The balloon message indicates proper dynamic memory operation
  • Focus on enabling Enhanced Session Mode for the best graphical experience

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