Whether you’re managing a major network installation or a single workstation, if your systems are connected to the Internet, they’re at risk. Understanding the basics of Linux security is your best defense.
Back in the old days security was a pretty straight-forward affair. If you wanted to secure something, you just kept buying locks and alarm systems until you felt secure. Back then, it actually took a good deal of planning and physical effort for someone to break into your business, your home, or anything else that had been “secured.”
Welcome to the Internet and the Year 2000
Today, networked computing is a business imperative and a fact of everyday life for home computer users. The downside to this is that the more we allow networked systems into our everyday lives, the less secure our businesses and homes become.
Worse yet, the bad guys don’t even have to exert much effort to attempt a break-in. There are lots of scanning and cracking tools available that know how to find and exploit known weaknesses on most computer systems.
Your best defense against this kind of threat is to understand the basics of system security. This will enable you to implement the necessary defenses against potential crackers. This will also give you the tools you need to monitor your system’s security on an ongoing basis.
Luckily, a vast number of tools exist to aid you in this pursuit….
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