Securing Linux - Part 1

Securing Linux - Part 1

http://www.linuxworld.com/linuxworld/lw-1999-05/lw-05-ramparts.html

Contrary to some popularly-held beliefs, there is no such thing as an impenetrable computer system. Given enough time, skill and persistence, a cracker can break any system, be it a Windows box or a Linux machine. At some level, good system security means eliminating or reducing one of these “targets of opportunity.” If you can make the task of cracking your system too time consuming or difficult overall, you’ve done a good job of preventing the majority of security risks.

This tutorial on securing a Linux system takes a micro-level view, intended to slow a cracker to a crawl, eliminating the opportunity of unlimited time. It looks to each vulnerable element of your system; file serving, email, web services, ftp, etc., with practical solutions for tightening the bolts that keep your system closed. Part 1 serves as a strong introduction into these areas and will introduce new Linux users to some crucial Linux security concepts.