Mastering Linux Security and Hardening, 3rd Edition
Mastering Linux Security and Hardening is a practical guide for Linux administrators who want to build skills in securing systems. The third edition describes hands-on labs and covers account controls, firewalls, encryption, auditing, vulnerability scanning, and intrusion detection.
At a glance
- Describes practical security labs using Ubuntu and Red Hat-type Linux distributions.
- Topics include user privileges, file permissions, encryption, firewalls, SSH hardening, and access controls.
- Covers OpenSCAP, auditd, vulnerability scanning, malware defenses, and Security Onion intrusion detection.
Reference price: $54.99
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- Broad coverage connects day-to-day server hardening with system auditing and vulnerability assessment.
- Hands-on labs are presented alongside topics such as SELinux, AppArmor, firewall configuration, and kernel hardening.
- The third edition's description names Ubuntu and AlmaLinux, with further details citing Ubuntu Server through version 22.04 LTS and Red Hat-type distributions through version 9.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Packt Publishing |
|---|---|
| Edition | 3rd |
| Publication date | February 28, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 618 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1837630518 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1837630516 |
| Dimensions | 7.5 x 1.4 x 9.25 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 2.31 pounds |
What to know before buying
- The book assumes working experience with the Linux command line and package management, so it may not suit readers starting from scratch.
Listing details to confirm
The listing describes the edition as using current distributions, but specifies Ubuntu Server through 22.04 LTS and Red Hat-type distributions through version 9. Check whether those versions match your environment. The listing also claims a free PDF copy, AI assistant, and next-gen reader, but does not establish the specific format or delivery terms for this copy.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Linux administrators and system administrators with command-line and package-management experience.
- Network engineers securing Linux environments and security consultants building Linux security skills.
- Readers interested in hands-on learning around firewall configuration, access controls, auditing, and vulnerability scanning.
Less suited to
- Absolute Linux beginners without command-line and package-management experience.
- Readers seeking an official Linux certification exam study guide. The publisher says this book is not one.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
87% 87% - 4 stars
11% 11% - 3 stars
2% 2% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
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Customer feedback describes the book as informative and recommends it, including a mention of its usefulness for Linux administrators. That sentiment aligns with its stated practical security scope, but buyers should note the assumed command-line and package-management experience and the listed distribution-version limits.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the content as informative and recommend the book.
- A customer summary calls it essential reading for Linux administrators.
Frequently asked questions
Who is this book aimed at?
The listing targets Linux administrators, system administrators, network engineers, and security consultants. It says working knowledge of the command line and package management is necessary.
What security topics does it cover?
Listed subjects include account privileges, permissions, encryption, firewalls, SSH hardening, SELinux and AppArmor, kernel hardening, auditing, malware defenses, vulnerability scanning, and intrusion detection.
Does it include hands-on exercises?
The publisher describes hands-on labs for the topics. The listing also claims a free PDF copy, AI assistant, and next-gen reader, though the particular format and access terms are not specified.
Is it an official certification guide?
No. The publisher says it is not an official Linux certification exam guide, though its material may be relevant to the Linux Professional Institute Level-3 Security exam.
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