Tips to Stay Malware Free on Linux

Keep your system updated

Keeping your system up to date ensures that any gaps in security are patched. Depending on the software you have installed, updates may be available daily. It is recommended that you run an update at least once every two weeks.

If for some reason you prefer to keep the current versions of your software, at least you should update the Kernel.

Don't trust strange networks

Open Wi-Fi networks are a hacker's paradise. Anyone with the appropriate software and wireless settings can enter your computer connected to a WiFi network. For these cases, a virtual private network (VPN) is highly recommended when you want to use the Internet outside the home or in the office.

Keep your guard

Firewalls can be installed and run on Linux. Firewalls can help prevent hackers from making unwanted connections across the network. Unless your desktop or laptop is running a specific service (like Samba for file sharing with Windows machines), it's best to make sure that the firewall is denying access to incoming connections.

Linux users have a number of tools to choose from, such as Fewal's Firewalld, considered the best in this area.

Run antivirus scan from time to time

Although Windows combines the most viruses, there are some for Linux and it is good to be prepared.

One of the best alternatives as open source software is ClamAV, which is available in most repositories of different distributions.

You can also read our article on The best little known browsers for Linux

Backup your data

Last but not least, be sure to back up your data. A good backup can be a lifesaver, saving you from headaches. You can back up your data with tools like Rsync.

These are some of our tips to stay free of malwares and other types of malicious code in Linux.