A concise but comprehensive guide to providing the best possible security for a server, with examples and background to help you understand the issues involved. For each of the tasks or services covered, this book lays out the reasons for security, the risks and needs involved, the background to understand the solutions, and step by step guidelines for doing the job.
Linux is a leading choice for Internet servers, including Web, FTP, and DNS services, but security is a primary concern for providers. Servers face numerous casual probe attempts daily and occasional serious break-ins. With the decline in broadband costs and increased availability, more users are offering Internet services, making security even more critical. Important Open Source tools have emerged, providing powerful alternatives to costly commercial solutions, positioning Linux as an ideal platform for secure services. This resource guides you through mastering reliable system and network security with practical advice and essential technical knowledge. It emphasizes securing Linux as a service hub for organizations and the Internet, detailing how to protect against attacks. The author, a seasoned security consultant and network architect, outlines security risks, precautions, and robust security recipes. While not covering firewalls directly, it addresses scenarios where organizations use other systems for protection. The book provides precise instructions for securing common services, ancillary tasks like hardening Linux, and basic intrusion detection tool installation. Written for users with limited security expertise, it explains concepts clearly, starting from fundamentals. With a blend of overarching principles and specific procedures, this comprehensive guide equips Linux users to enhance their system security eff