Topic: Virus Immune
The Jake PC states that it is 100% virus immune. Now I'm assuming that that is just the client? I would assume that the server itself needs careful maintenance to prevent it getting infected?
- eth0
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Re: Virus Immune
Any server needs to be kept uptodate as much as practically possible. With linux servers virus's wouldn't be a problem but there is the risk of being hacked on any platform which isn't updated. On a local network updates aren't always quite as essential, and updating a server in general can cause issues which in turn generate work so it needs to be weighed up. Any production server exposed to the internet should be kept updated (especially the programs which are likely to be exploited if there if vunerabilities are discovered).
Re: Virus Immune
Whilst linux is better than windows when it comes to being sturdy and able to resist infections, it is not invulnerable. Face it-the source code is often available easily online-making it perfect for attacking! And since servers use linux more often than home boxes, a server attack is more likely than a home linux box being attacked.
So yes, updates shouldn't be overlooked!
Re: Virus Immune
If your running a server environment in any circumstances you would be constantly looking for ways to improve and upgrade your system. If youv'e been running Linux servers for any length of time, I would assume your capable of doing some of the development as well as server maintenance. But the servers are just a part of the system which will include routers and firewalls (you hope) as well as wireless systems and the worst threat of all your USERS.
Re: Virus Immune
HardDrive wrote:
Face it-the source code is often available easily online-making it perfect for attacking!
I would think having the source code fully available would allow you to check and test it, giving you more information on how to defend it rather than making it more vunerable.
Re: Virus Immune
I don't get it, I thought Linux servers were almost impossible to hack! I thought only Windows had issues with viruses and hackers. So Linux isn't safe either?
Re: Virus Immune
If your worried about hackers just don't connect your system to any kind of network, stick it in a room and lock the door. It will be safe there. If you actually need to use it of course you will just have to manage the system and keep it up to date. Monitor your users, networks, security and AV systems to name but a few. What ever software your running, any number of things can happen to screw up your system not just script kiddies and Mr Gates.
Re: Virus Immune
Linux servers are more secure on the whole than Windows systems are, but no they are not invulnerable. Nothing is-there will be loopholes and problems found with everything.
The point is that when Linux vulnerabilities are found there is instantly a hot team of developers worldwide working to fix it. Microsoft on the other hand takes time to get developers on it, its a slower process I think.
Re: Virus Immune
Nothing is virus proof or hacker proof. Forget about trying to be 100% secure. What you can do is keep your system up to date and hire professionals to maintain it and implement new security measures.
Re: Virus Immune
If your worried you can always sit your system behind a firewall and use an Anti Virus product. Most domestic DSL routers come with a hardware firewall these days. You can even get a quality AV free for home use.
Re: Virus Immune
And neither of those measures is foolproof either. We could talk around this subject for hours but really and truly there is no perfect answer here other than careful running of your network along with ensuring proper running practise with back ups and so on-you just have to work as the best but be prepared for the worst.
Re: Virus Immune
Arthur wrote:
Microsoft on the other hand takes time to get developers on it, its a slower process I think
Microsoft are pretty hot on this if you use the critical updates you'll find they download stuff to your Windows box daily. Its not in their interest to let you crash and burn despite what people may say.
Re: Virus Immune
DavidDimble wrote:
And neither of those measures is foolproof either
Well thats generally because of lazy management of the software and equipment. If your behind a properly managed firewall and your using AV which you up date everyday you will have no problem. Any IT systems admin that hasn't prepared for the worst isn't doing their job.
Re: Virus Immune
I'll still never trust my servers to Microsoft updates, antivirus programs or firewalls. I know the limitations of these programs-AV companies can only create protection to viruses that exist and there is always a small delay.
But yes, if you do your job all should be well.
Re: Virus Immune
It's kind of funny. I would have said buy a mac, but unfortunately they are no longer immune to viruses either. Mac OS X was the first operating system that actually became infected with a virus. It took 5 years after it came out though.
I guess, if you truly want to be virus free....don't hook your computer up to the internet or a network. LOL
Re: Virus Immune
Yes even macs are vulnerable however there is the fact that they are not so common and so not so frequently targeted. I will say I have never heard of a successful linux virus.
Even not being online, you risk infection from discs or anything you run on the machine.