Ubuntu Linux Tips: Make Great Security Even Better

Ubuntu Linux has a great reputation as a secure operating system. But there are ways -- most of them quick and easy -- to make Ubuntu even more secure.

Matthew McKenzie

Contributor

December 03, 2008

Ubuntu Linux has a great reputation as a secure operating system. But there are ways -- most of them quick and easy -- to make Ubuntu even more secure.This week, IT Security has posted what it bills as its "Big Ol' Ubuntu Security Resource." It focuses on the fact that while Ubuntu Linux earns high marks for its default security settings, when it comes to system security, there is always room for improvement: "If you've recently switched from Windows to the Linux distribution Ubuntu, you've probably experienced a decrease in spyware -- and malware in general -- on your system. But although Ubuntu is billed as the ultra-secure solution, you should know that even though Ubuntu's default install has its flaws, like every other operating system.

To combat these weaknesses, IT Security has prepared a guide to help you close your system's backdoors and protect you from some of the common Ubuntu exploits. Look at this big ol' Ubuntu security resource as an introductory guide to securing Ubuntu, along with a list of the software you'll need to stay protected." If you're just getting started with Ubuntu Linux, and in particular with a Windows-to-Linux desktop or server migration, this is an outstanding resource. Many of these tips, including those on how to modify Ubuntu's default settings for improved security, how to secure user home directories, and which software to rely upon for anti-rootkit protection, are essential reading for any newbie Linux admin.

Come to think of it, even if you consider yourself an experienced Linux user, it can't hurt to check out these tips. The one that you realize you missed before just might be the one that keeps uninvited visitors off your company's Linux systems -- and out of your company's vital business data.