Network Computing: Review: Hardened Linux Puts Hackers EnGarde

“Maintaining the security of your Internet-facing Linux server
is a challenge. Often you’re left building castles in the sand,
only to see them washed away by the vulnerability du jour. If
you’re ready to construct your fortifications of stronger stuff,
security-enhanced Linux distributions may be the answer. They offer
an alternative to the patch-and-pray cycle we’re stuck in
today.

“These niche Linux products have advantages that may make them a
better choice than a standard distribution. First and foremost, a
security-enhanced, or hardened, distribution lets you take a
proactive security stance versus the reactive model of the
mainstream vendors. Although the standard distributions have
improved security, advances have come at a snail’s pace, with
vendors doing only enough to avoid appearing remiss. After all,
reducing the default number of network services (the most common
security ‘enhancement’ of a mainstream distribution) is not a
robust approach to security–it’s common sense…”

Complete
Story