Linux security

[kev7555]

Are there any malware applications written for Linux yet?

Searching the threads, I´m given the impression that anti virus software is not necessary. How about adware/spyware applications?


-Kev

[ZeratulsAvenger]

I think the strategy with linux is similar to OS X in that you can use virus protection/adaware removal utilities but it isn't worth it for the most part. While there are a few (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Linux_computer_viruses) viruses, it seems as if you would have to try to get infected.

Basically, as long as you keep software updated and secure any holes (just like you would on a windows system) you should be safe.

[ghost2003]

I never heard of spyware or adware for linux but malware does exist. Mostly
things like rootkits. The best way to protect your system is to have proper
policies and a good setup.
Just as a side note, my friends neglected solaris server was turned into a
spaming server not long ago.

[kev7555]

OK, I just dowloaded Ubuntu and installed it. I have it set up so a password is required for any administrative changes. Downloaded all current updates as well. I'm the only user. Any tips or tricks related to having a good policy?

-Kev

[kilgoretrout]

If your not running a server, don't worry - you are very safe. Ubuntu and most modern linux distros come with built in firewalls with sane default configurations for desktop users. You shouldn't have to do anything more other than use common sense, i.e. don't install software from unknown sources, have a strong password, etc.
If you are running a server on linux or any OS, you have to pay a lot more attention to security since you are opening ports and services to the outside world. Books have been written on this topic.

[kev7555]

No, desktop only, no server. I am really loving this. I haven´t got all of my data migrated over from Windows yet and I´m still running my printer and scanner from the Windows box, but that is coming.

This was more of a test run to see how I liked it, and I am sold.

I´m sure I´ll run into some incompatibilities sooner or later but for my simple purposes (internet research, web mail, office tasks) this is sufficient. No more supporting Microsoft. I love it.


-K

[glc]

If you want, AVG has a free Linux antivirus, it's offered in .deb and .rpm.

[XenaWP]

Please keep us updated as you add functions such as printing, scanning, etc. I and I'm sure others will be interested to hear how it goes.

[kev7555]

Will do. Still using this just for basic web surfing, e-mail and office applications right now. I loaded this on a small partition and did a dual boot with XP, so I don´t have a lot of storage space. My advice to you is to treat it like an OS that you are intending to use regularly.

Install with plenty of storage and bypass the ¨testing¨ phase that I just did. Once you´ve tried it, I doubt that you will go back.

-Kev

[cmillar6]

No Ubuntu install is complete without this http://getautomatix.com/ it makes installing additional applications really easy. Also take a look at installing the Beryl 3D desktop, it's amazing.