The Linux Operating System is generally secure. However, there are many factors that could put its safety at risk. Since Linux powers some of the world’s most critical systems, it’s imperative that administrators take the necessary steps to protect the operating system’s security. Here’s how to keep your Linux operating system secure.
- Create Strong Passwords
Creating strong passwords is one of the best ways to secure your Linux operating system. This practice does not only apply to users logging into their SaaS applications. Administrators must also ensure that users have sufficiently strong passwords.
Make sure to regularly update your passwords for logins and applications, especially those with access to the administrative server. When generating passwords, choose a password with at least 12 characters, and have a random mix of numbers, symbols, and letters.
- Carry out Regular Updates
Avoid holding on to old, unpatched packages since these will introduce critical vulnerabilities to your Linux operating system and will be taken advantage of by cybercriminals. Therefore, ensure that your server is regularly updated.
Many Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, are updated in a rolling distribution cycle with both short-term and long-term release versions. Your security team should consider from the start whether they want to operate stable software or bleeding edge on their machines and configure the necessary update policies.
- Bring in a Linux Engineer
The best way to ensure your Linux operating system remains safe is to recruit a Linux engineer. There are some great linux recruiting agencies in the UK who can help you find the right person to keep your operating system secure. Linux engineers are experienced software engineers that specialise in the Linux operating system. They are involved in implementing Linux in computer systems, usually when developing new software.
A Linux engineer will also be responsible for installing and monitoring Linux open source operating systems and ensuring it is safe and secure by implementing protective measures. The engineer will also help resolve user issues, change management requests, and identify potential threats.
- Back up Your Server
No matter how careful you are, things can go wrong when it comes to computer systems, leading to dependency problems and other issues. Therefore, you must retain the ability to roll back the changes to your server by backing it up.
An effective backup approach involves creating two copies – one offsite copy for every primary protected device. There are system rollback tools available for Linux servers to help automate the process and allow for faster disaster recovery. Backups are necessary since they prevent permanent data loss, making it imperative for admins to be aware of all their backup options. It is even more essential for people working with enterprise-level data.
- Only Install What You Need
You must only install the packages that your business needs to operate to protect your Linux operating system. Linux server distributions already have packages installed, such as base-passwd and adduser. When installing the packages, users will have the option to install additional packages. But make sure you only choose the package you need and avoid installing unnecessary packages.
