The Linux Foundation's Linux Workstation Security Checklist

Konstantin Ryabitsev’s high-level security recommendations for Linux Foundations systems administrators is probably not the kind of document that most of you would read. In fact, I’ve known a shocking number of SysAdmins who wouldn’t take the time to read something like this. But trust me it’s worth reading – even if you don’t understand it.

Now you’re probably wondering how reading something that you don’t understand could be useful. That’s a very understandable point of confusion. But when it comes to security the things that you don’t know or don’t understand are the things that could literally or metaphorically kill you. The stuff you don’t know is the most important stuff.

A lot of very technical people follow and read Blogs of War but I am primarily sharing this for the benefit of the other 99% – those of you who probably won’t fully understand Konstantin’s recommendations.

Why?

Because if you’re even remotely interested in security this will give you topics for exploration. This is a pretty cool jumping off point for those of you who want to learn more about securing yourself and your hardware. And don’t get too hung up on the Linux-specific recommendations because many of the concepts and vulnerabilities are universal. If you’re not interested in learning more about this topic that’s fine too – as long as you’re comfortable with the risk.