Security question {newbie question}

Radio · 05-17-2002, 12:21 PM

Hi,
I have just managed to get to grips with Redhat 7.2. I connect to the net using kppp. My laptop is not networked and I don't use send mail. What services should I turn off? and how. Also what else should I do to secure my linux box

Cheers
Radio

sewer_monkey · 05-17-2002, 01:25 PM

Basically, turn off anything you don't need. Research each component/service that starts up by default to know what exactly you're turning on or off.

If you want, you can try setting up a firewall. Overall, RH7.2's default settings are "OK" for security. Even if you don't change anything, you should be OK.

Radio · 05-17-2002, 02:17 PM

Hi,
Thanks for the advice! When installing Redhat 7.2, I installed the firewall that came with it. It's set at Medium security.

unSpawn · 05-17-2002, 06:32 PM

Additionally you could use these as references to tweak your security settings:
CERT's Techtips especially the "UNIX Computer Security Checklist",
Security Quick-Start HOWTO for Linux and
LASG: Linux Administrator's Security Guide.