"Linux is capable of high-end security; however, the out-of-the-box configurations must be altered to meet the security needs of most businesses with an Internet presence. This article shows you the steps for securing a Linux system called hardening the server using both manual methods and open source security solutions. The hardening process focuses on the operating system, and is important regardless of the services offered by the server.The steps will vary slightly between services, such as e-mail and Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), but are essential for protecting any server that is connected to a network, especially the Internet. Hardening the operating system allows the server to operate efficiently and securely.
"This article includes the essential steps an administrator must follow to harden a Unix system; specifically, a Red Hat Linux system.These steps include updating the system, disabling unnecessary services, locking down ports, logging, and maintenance. Open source programs allow administrators to automate these processes using Bastille, sudo, logging enhancers such as SWATCH, and antivirus software. Before you implement these programs, you should first understand how to harden a system manually.
"A Linux system may contain many security vulnerabilities and software bugs when it is first released. Vendors, such as Red Hat, provide updates to the operating system to fix these vulnerabilities and bugs. In fact, many consulting firms recommend that companies do not purchase and implement new operating systems until the first update is available. In most cases, the first update will fix many of the problems encountered with the first release of the Linux system (distribution).
"You should apply the latest updates before the server goes live, and constantly maintain the server after it is deployed to make sure the most current required patches are installed. The more time an operating system is available to the public, the more time malicious hackers have to exploit discovered vulnerabilities. Vendors offer patches to fix these vulnerabilities as quickly as possible; in some cases, the fixes are available at the vendor’s site the same day. Administrators must also regularly test their systems using security analyzer software. Security analyzer software scans systems to uncover security vulnerabilities, and recommends fixes to close the security hole..."
