Linux Community Magazine

Linux is a robust and amazing operating system, no matter what flavor of Linux you prefer. It's very stable and rarely crashes. Linxu is also very secure - it's hard for hackers and others with malicious intent to get at your data.

However, there are problems with Linux systems that can usually be avoided. Sometimes users will make security mistakes that leave their system vulnerable. In a work environment users can sometimes make poor choices that cause system-wide vulnerability. Here are some ways to avoid having your system compromised.

Choose a Good Password

Cracking your password is the easiest way for a hacker to gain access to your Linux system. Some Linux distributions enable root (the administrative user) by default, and others do not. Regardless, a hacker will often begin his probe by cracking the password of a regular user, then attempt to uncover the root password.

Tips for a good password include: never use the word "password" as your password! Don't use the name of your computer, or your own name. Don't use any celebrity names or the names of political figures. Think of other common things to avoid, such as birthdays, addresses, etc. Random passwords are important.

Another way to boost your security is to make your account name complex. Some people want to go to this length, others prefer to be able to use their user name for login. Whichever you choose, make sure your password is secure.

Close Ports

Linux installations come with much less "bloatware" than Windows systems. This means they don't have tons of extra, unescarry software that just clutters the computer. However, they do come with some software and services installed that you may not need. If these are not critical to your computer, you can turn these off to close open ports and thus reduce the number of possible security breech points on your OS.

Old Software

The beauty of Linux is that there is so much software available. This software - called a package, is usually free or "open-source." If you need a program to tutor your kids in math, you can probably find it.

However, old or outdated packages can be a security concern for your system. Most Linux distributions now come with a feature that checks for updates to your programs automatically. Make sure you pay attention to the notifications and update when it signals you should.

Update as soon as security releases and Linux header updates are made available. If you search your distributions repositories for programs it will often let you know if a package is an "official" release for your distribution. Though not all excellent programs will be listed, to be safe you may only want to use "official" packages.

Configure Your Programs Correctly

It's best to try and install new programs through your distribution's package manager. Next best is to install programs packaged for your distribution, such as.rpm's for Red Hat distributions or.debs for Debian-based distributions.

If a package seems to install incorrectly, completely remove it from your system. An incorrectly installed or configured program could become a security hazard. Follow all instructions when you configure your software.

If you must compile a package from the source, closely follow instructions. Be careful with anything and make sure you completely trust the source.

Old Accounts

If you have user accounts on your system and no longer have that person using the system, delete that account immediately.

These are a few tips to keep your Linux box as safe and secure as the Linux crowd brags it should be. Use common sense and don't assume you're immune to attack just because you're not using Windows. Take some time to make sure your system is secure.