Hardening of Linux server to protect your IT infrastructure

by Juan Mazzini (Operations Analyst – Wezen Infrastructure)

Hardening of Linux servers is a key strategy to reduce risks and protect critical data of any organization that uses this operating system. 

Through secure configuration, vulnerability mitigation and the implementation of proactive measures, it is possible to strengthen IT security, ensure operational continuity and comply with regulatory standards. 

In this article, we explain what Hardening of Linux server is, why it is necessary and the benefits of adopting it.

What is hardening of Linux server?

Linux hardening is a process of strengthening the security of a Linux operating system by reducing its attack surface and implementing proactive security measures. These measures include:

• Removing unnecessary software: Reducing vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
• Configure secure settings: Adjusting default settings to comply with security standards.
• Monitor services: Running only those that are critical to the operation.

By applying these measures, it is possible to protect systems from threats and minimize the risk of exploitation of known and unknown vulnerabilities.

Why is hardening of Linux server necessary?

Linux is renowned for its stability and security. However, today, no infrastructure is completely immune to risk. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities at various levels to attack. 

These vulnerabilities can arise due to a variety of factors, such as, for example:

• Use of third-party software
• Custom configurations
• Programming errors

Therefore, beyond the native Linux security, it is necessary to implement hardening for:

1. Mitigating known and emerging vulnerabilities

Threats are constantly evolving. Therefore, through hardening, it is possible to apply patches and security updates proactively.

2. Reduce the attack surface

Limiting active services, strengthening passwords and restricting access minimizes opportunities for exploitation.

3. Protect critical assets

Sensitive data and essential services must be protected against unauthorized access and failures. Hardening makes this possible, offering a defense in depth that helps protect against new threats and attacks.

Thus, thanks to Linux hardening you can minimize the risk of cyberattacks, protecting confidential data and business continuity. At the same time, you facilitate compliance with information security regulations.

In short, Linux hardening is an investment in information security that generates a long-term return on investment.

What are the pillars of Linux hardening?

Hardening is based on essential pillars covering configurations, protection, and monitoring:

1. Secure system configuration

• Create users with minimum privileges and complex password policies.
• Set restrictive permissions for critical files and directories.
• Configure services and daemons with advanced security options.

2. Reducing the attack surface

• Eliminate unnecessary software that may expose vulnerabilities.
• Configure firewalls to block unauthorized traffic.
• Disable unused network interfaces.
• Perform periodic audits of installed software.

3. Vulnerability mitigation

• Keep the operating system and applications updated with the latest security patches.
• Perform vulnerability audits and scans with specialized tools.
• Apply critical patches proactively.
• Prioritize the correction of the most critical vulnerabilities.

4. Network hardening

• Implement strict firewall rules to control inbound and outbound traffic.
• Control access to the network, segmenting it into security zones (DMZ, internal network). As well as using access control lists (ACL) to restrict access to resources.
• Implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS).
• Monitors system logs for suspicious activity.

5. Data protection and backup

• Implements encryption for data in transit and at rest. Encrypt hard disks, partitions, and data in transit (e.g., using SSH and HTTPS).
• Performs regular backups and stores them in a secure location.
• Develop disaster recovery plans.

Linux hardening benefits and how to access them

Hardening of linux server is more than a security measure. It is a fundamental strategy to ensure operational continuity and protect your organization’s digital assets.

By following a rigorous and customized methodology, like the one we offer at Wezen, it is possible to obtain benefits such as:

• Significantly reduce the risk of cyber-attacks: Identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities before they are exploited.
• Increase system resilience: Ensuring business continuity in the event of security incidents.
• Comply with regulatory requirements: Ensuring compliance with the most demanding security norms and standards.
• Protect the organization’s reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to information security.

With Wezen’s methodology, companies can mitigate risk, comply with regulations and strengthen their IT infrastructure in the face of an ever-evolving threat landscape. 

It’s time to protect your organization’s Linux servers, we can help. Write to us.

Illustrative image: Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik