Problems And Solutions With A Unix Security AuditIf you're a network administrator, then you should know that performing a Unix security audit is a difficult and time-consuming task. And, Unix comes complete with a bad reputation with regard to security. Performing a Unix security audit will allow you to increase the security of the system and correct any errors that may occur when configuring the system. Problems Originally, the Unix platform was created for programmers and by programmers. This is why some people never understood much about Unix. The system started out as small and consisted of a great multiuser and multitasking system. But, now there are so many features included in Unix that are considered to be mandatory, which includes networking. The number of computer programs, files and directories will make anyone's stomach turn. Solutions Fortunately, there are ways to make the auditing process much easier. Typical of the Unix platform, free software found online needs to be downloaded and installed on your system. One free program, called computer oracle and password system (COPS), will automatically and without-question perform a Unix security audit. Though it will not fix the problem, the system will give you a report of potential issues and problems after it's done testing. The other option is to purchase Unix security audit software. There are some advantages to purchasing a piece of Unix security audit software rather than getting it for free. Any version that you purchase is going to be easier to install and set up than any other. More Problems No matter whether you purchase Unix security audit software or obtain a free program, you need to be aware that some of the recommendations provided by the Unix security audit are not the best. It's actually possible to break the entire system by using certain recommendations made by the Unix security audit software packages as well as by some other outside and unknown forces. More Solutions Be on top of any security information given by the vendor of your Unix system. Any such announcements should be taken seriously and you need to upgrade your computer and network immediately to be on top of those announcements. Place your name and email address on a vendor's list for updates and patches. This way, you can receive record of the problems, and the solutions, as soon as possible. Overall, Unix security audit software will most likely do more good than harm. It can be a good investment that can save you time and money down the road. |