Linux, an open-source operating system, is used as a platform to run servers, desktops, and even plays an important part in the business world. With a modular design, it offers more variations and a number of distributions. Linux is used majorly to manage application scheduling, file system, process scheduling, and more.
The robust security makes it the primary preference for developers. It doesn’t mean that it is completely safe but integrates strong security algorithms that make it less vulnerable to potential threats. The admin needs to authorize each application, and any malware app cannot be executed until the admin enters the access password.
The article focuses on the best security practices for Linux servers to get that extra degree of control.
Linux Security Tips to Reduce System Vulnerabilities
1. Use Unique Passwords
Strong passwords that comprise a combination of alphabets, numbers, and special characters shield the server from unauthorized access. Though it is a basic rule, it is the most neglected one. Try to assign at least a 10-digit password to your computer by using uppercase as well as lowercase alphabets.
Avoid using the same password for other accounts and apps to prevent hacking attempts. Change the password every few months to ensure adequate security. To add more security, you may also use two-factor authentication for your accounts.
2. Convert PDF to Editable Format
PDFs are known for their security and reliability, so it makes sense to use this file format. However, it’s quite easier to convert PDFs in other operating systems. But what if you are using Linux? If you are among the users who wonder how to convert a pdf to editable format in macOS, Windows, and Linux, here’s the answer.
You can either use the command-line tool called pdftotext as part of the popular utils. Since the PDF is a popular and widely used file format, the way to convert it into text is extended to Mac and Windows computers in this article. On your Mac or Windows systems, use Google Docs to change the PDF to a Word file or install Adobe Acrobat DC for quick conversion.
3. Keep System Updates
Make sure to keep your Linux system updated by installing the latest release patches, kernel, and security fixes to address emerging vulnerabilities. Most computer users avoid installing these patches, and if you are among those who consider updates as time-consuming, you can tweak your system to automatically initiate the task.
Use Ubuntu Update Manager or the command-line interface to implement updates. Using the command line, you can ask the computer to provide the list of available patches. With Ubuntu Manager, click on the Show Applications icon available in the bottom-left section of the screen and search for Update Manager.
4. Avoid Unnecessary Apps
You may be excited to download new applications, but every latest software might not necessarily be required. Additional programs bring along an opportunity to expose your system to potential security threats. Be extra cautious while downloading apps on the server, as the system can bloat from the unused apps in the long run.
If your computer is already filled with volumes of unnecessary apps, use Red Hat Package Manager (RPM) to audit all downloaded packages. Delete all the unused apps from there to optimize your computer storage and make it run at peak efficiency. Repeat this practice regularly every month to get rid of redundant apps.
5. Network Mapper for Security Auditing
Nmap is an open-source command-line tool that is majorly used by network and system administrators for security auditing, which prevents potential trouble. It provides real-time information of the network with details of the active Internet Protocols (IPs), a number of open ports, along an overview of the live hosts. You can use it to scan your system with hostname and IP address.
The tool helps determine the security flaws in the network and helps initiate immediate actions that prevent any system vulnerabilities. With the release of the graphical user interface, working with Nmap becomes easier. You may select the TCP scanning technique if you like to work with the command-line interface rather than the GUI.
6. Initiate Backups & Test Them Frequently
Detecting online security threats is something near to impossible; one thing that you can ensure for your data safety is regular backups, particularly offsite ones. In the event of virus intrusions or hacking attempts, important data remains accessible. Therefore, setting up a strict backup regime is significant, and following it with dedication is even important.
The most popular option to backup data in Linux is the application rsync which comes with a wide range of features that enable users to initiate daily backups and dump certain files from the list of items. The flexibility to select important files accelerates the backup process while saving a lot of storage.
Conclusion
Linux has become a widely adopted operating system because of its stability and reliability. However, it still faces several challenges when it comes to security. This article aims to help you secure your Linux system against various security threats. Follow the tips mentioned above to keep your system safe and sound!