Any computer is naturally insecure, esp one connected to a network of any kind.
Security is a long and hard adventure to undertake. I would recommend get some
good books (like "Maximum Linux Security") on the subj and study. Also ck out my
webpages, I have links to computer security.
I would recommend getting SARA. It is an aggressive port scanner that will
point out specific weaknesses on your host and network. Be aware, you can also
scan just about anyone on the Internet with it. Port scanning is a prelude to a
network attack, so don't just scan anyone, esp .gov and .mil. If the network
is not yours, DONT SCAN IT. SARA (derived from SAINT, derived from SATAN) will
greatly aid in securing you system as much as possible and still remain on a
network.
If you want absolute security, disconntect completely from ALL networks, LAN,
modem, etc, and have no on line fun.
Consider setup up and using a separate firewall. Separate because a firewall is
a natural target and if it attacker breaks root, it will be compromised alone
and still protect your network. However, if it is your host machine and they
break in, you have just given up all of your protection. I am using one, and the
link in on my webpages.
--
Best Regards, Bruce
Father to Bruce, Maverick & Aleister 1 Feb 2000
Akina, age 14, Misa, age 12, Miyuki age 10
My website: http://harrisherd.ahv.cx
Tired of computer viruses or crashes?
Check out Linux: http://www.linux.org