Linux vs. SELinux: What are the Differences?
1. The purpose : Linux is the operating system that manages the hardware and the software resources onto a computer. SELinux is a security part that protects the Linux from the bad software and the unauthorized access.
2. Access control enforcement : In normal Linux the users and apps can access the whole system if they have the right permissions. This is called the Discretionary Access Control (DAC). With SELinux admins set the exact permissions for each user, program, and resource. SELinux blocks any access attempts that admins do not allow through the security policies.
AppArmor vs. SELinux
- AppArmor and SELinux both protect the systems from the bad software and the unauthorized access but they work differently.
- AppArmor uses rule files for each program to allow or block actions. SELinux uses policies that admins make to give exact permissions for users, programs, and resources.
- AppArmor is mainly used on SUSE and Ubuntu Linux distributions.
- AppArmor is easier to setup and manage, but has less control. SELinux is more complex but gives admins very detailed control over permissions.
What is SELinux?
SELinux is a special security system built into Linux computers. It helps keep your computer safe and secure. With SELinux, different programs and users on the computer have limited permissions. This means each program or user can only access certain files and do certain actions that they are allowed to do. For example, The web browser can connect to the internet but it cannot read your private documents. This prevents viruses and hackers from gaining full control over your system if they get into one program.
SELinux sets rules about what different programs and users are permitted to do. System administrators enable SELinux and set up these security rules based on their needs.
Table of Content
- What Is SELinux?
- How Security-Enhanced Linux Works?
- SELinux Policies
- SELinux Labels and Type Enforcement
- SELinux Modes
- How to Configure SELinux?
- Configure SELinux Permanently
- Configure SELinux Temporarily
- Linux vs. SELinux: What are the Differences?
- AppArmor vs. SELinux
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