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How to secure a Linux system

Even though Linux is by default a secure solution, there are several steps that can be taken in order to improve the security of a Linux system. Let’s see up next what can you do to make your system even more secure.

Use BIOS protection

One of the most essential Linux system hardening tips is to activate and use BIOS protection. Adding a password will prevent the end-user from changing or overriding security settings in BIOS.

Use hard disk encryption

Almost all Linux systems permit you to add an encryption layer to disks prior to installation. Disk encryption is useful for preventing unauthorized access to your data.

Ban USB usage

Another vital hardening tip for Linux is related to disabling USB usage. In this way, you will prevent data from being taken from your Linux host.

Keep your system updated

A common sense rule of creating and maintaining your Linux system as secure as possible is to install all the updates. An updated system will most likely come with improved security certificates, which will reinforce your security layers.

Remove unnecessary packages

Linux OS is so versatile and adaptable to your needs that it allows you to uninstall all those packages that you don’t use. In this way, you will increase both your system’s performance and security.

Use Network filtering

Another technique for hardening a Linux system is to analyse the network traffic and filter unwanted ongoing or incoming connections.

Remove any user accounts that are no longer useful

Thorough audits, check-ups and clean-ups on a Linux system is what will keep it fully functional and secure. Thus, it is best to disable and delate any unused user accounts.

Activate SELinux

Security Enhanced Linux represents a Kernel security tool meant o support the access control security policy. You can opt from three configuration modes, that will either disable it, enable it or enforce it.

Choose network parameters wisely

If you aim to secure your Linux system, you should focus on the host network, too. Disable the IP forwarding, the send packet redirects and ICMP redirect allowance. On the other hand, enable bad error message protection, which will reinforce the Linux Firewall.

Set up a restrictive password policy

Another useful approach for securing a Linux system is to create a set of restrictive rules in regards to passwords. Oblige the users to create strong passwords with the aid of a password generator, and set up rules that prevent login after a number of failed attempts.

Overall, there are several Linux hardening approaches you can opt for depending on your situation.

Adding new security measures, using all the Kernel security options, or monitoring the ongoing security measures are all things that need to be considering.

It is always best to prevent security breaches, rather than recovering from one.

This is why, adopting some or all of those ideas for securing a Linux system is more than necessary.

Besides, you can always scan your system in order to receive a thorough audit about its performance and possible vulnerabilities.