The Linux operating system is widely used today and is popular thanks to its proficiency, adaptability, and stability. As it’s fully open-source, maintenance costs are comparatively low, and users have considerable flexibility when it comes to launching and operating on accommodating servers.
But how does Linux perform when it comes to system security? Are cybercriminals able to penetrate Linux systems and servers in the same way they can on Windows or the Mac operating system?
Of course, Linux operating system isn’t impervious to cyberattacks. Although Linux is considered more secure than other operating systems, including Windows and macOS, you should still take action to improve your system’s overall security. Let’s take a look at how you can bolster your Linux security.
Why is Linux considered to be so secure?
Before we explore how you can add security elements to your Linux operating system, it’s essential to understand why Linux is considered to be so secure in the first place.
The primary reason why Linux is regarded as the most secure operating system is that it’s open-source, meaning anyone can review its back end and fix any bugs or hacks they encounter.
Also, because Linux only runs on approximately 2% of desktop computers worldwide, it hasn’t yet attracted significant attention from cybercriminals, who tend to target other, more popular operating systems.
That being said, Linux customers still get phished, and malware does exist within the system. As such, it’s vitally important that you take extra precautions as a Linux user, and we introduce some of the additional security features you can employ below.
Install a Linux VPN
The best way to improve your Linux security is to put a VPN for Linux on your shopping list. VPNs provide a range of security benefits to Linux users, including:
Full Encryption
VPNs encrypt your data when browsing online. Everything from bank transfers to your social media activity is encrypted. This means that should hackers intercept your data, they won’t be able to make sense of the information.
Total privacy
No logs are kept of your browsing activity and history, ensuring total privacy when browsing the internet.
Anonymity
VPNs ensure your IP isn’t traceable, enabling users to remain anonymous when online.
Avoid throttling
Some internet service providers throttle bandwidth based on search content and location. VPNs allow you to bypass these restrictions.
Improved access
Installing a VPN enables Linux users to access geo-blocked content from Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services.
IP selection
When you install a VPN on your device, you can select which country to channel your data through and select your IP address accordingly.
While many users are attracted to Linux because of the operating system’s in-built security, the significant additional security benefits offered by a Linux VPN make it an essential component of your home or work internet setup.
Utilize full disk encryption
Encrypting your hard disk ensures your data remains secure, even if your laptop is stolen. On a Linux system like Ubuntu, full disk encryption is an option available at installation that you can check.
Although some users report a slow-down in their operating system. As a result, it’s not usually an issue for most, particularly if you have a new PC.
Just be sure to pick a strong full-disk encryption master password! If someone can hack your master password, it renders the encryption useless.
Regularly update your Linux software
It’s vitally important that you keep your Linux software up to date. This includes web browsers, PDF readers, and video players. Updates fix bugs and issues that hackers could exploit. If you don’t regularly update your software, it is vulnerable to cyberattacks.
One of the good things about Linux is that you can turn on ‘Important Security Updates’ to automatically update your operating system updates.
Improve your browser security
Regardless of whether you use Google Chrome, Opera, or any other browser on Linux, you can take steps to bolster your browser’s security. Regularly clearing your cache, cookies, and browsing history is a good place to begin. You should also utilize different passwords for your various online accounts, and consider using a password keeper to help you remember them.
Tools like Disconnect and Ghostery add an additional layer of security to your browser, improve your privacy settings, and be used in conjunction with a VPN to protect your data while browsing online.
Final Verdict
The Linux operating system is becoming increasingly popular with users thanks to its robust security features. However, given the rate at which cyberattacks occur, you can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your personal data.
Downloading a high-performing VPN for Linux is the best way to protect yourself from cybercriminals and should be regarded as an integral component of your home internet system.