Even for experienced Linux users, this is a good article. http://www.theregister.co.uk/content/4/26843.html
One of the great thought-provokers of this article is: ------ One of the most attractive things about Linux is the number of installation options one is presented with and how tempting it is to customize. But for a newbie, in terms of Web security and PC hygiene, that's also the worst thing about it. The fact is, Windows is easier than Linux for a casual user to make fairly secure, whereas Linux is easier than Windows for a power user to make very secure. ------ I would note, however, that the more recent versions of Linux distributions are doing a better job in addressing the degree of opness in defualt installations. Not thorough but better than a year or so ago. Back then, when I used the Gibson Research Center ports testing resource (via http://grc.com), there were many open ports on the Linux box with a stock installation. Now there are fewer. Having said this, it still must be remembered that one or two open ports without precautions are just as open as having 500 of them. By the way, don't let the article scare you out of considering Linux. Linux is worth the bit of extra learning and effort. J.D. Abolins Meyda Online -- Infosec & Privacy Studies New Web site coming: http://www.MeydaOnline.com
