Security

A common question asked by those new (and not so new) to Linux is what Firewall/anti-virus/anti-spyware is needed.

1. a Firewall is essential with any networked computer
   • most Linux install and enable an SPI firewall by default
     • if "lsmod" includes "IPTables" in its listing then a firewall is enabled
   • an SPI firewall in a router is also advisable
     • NB - many routers default this to "DISABLED" - be certain to enable it.
   • having both firewalls enabled simultaneously is unlikely to cause problems
2. anti-virus is completely unnecessary with Linux
   • don't be ripped-off for it
   • ClamAV is a free anti-virus scanner app for Linux
     • scans foreign storage media and email attachments for Windows viruses
3. anti-spyware in Linux relies on an informed user

--Rod (talk) 16:57, 15 January 2015 (AEDT) --