What is SELinux

What is SELinux and why is it important?

SELinux is a security system built into Linux computers. It is important because it stops bad programs or hackers from accessing all your files and data if they get into your computer.

How does SELinux work?

SELinux sets strict rules about what each program and user is allowed to do on the system. It blocks any attempts to access things the rules don’t allow.

Can I turn SELinux off completely?

Yes, you can disable SELinux, but this removes all the extra security protection it provides, so it’s not recommended unless absolutely necessary.

Is it hard to configure SELinux?

Setting up SELinux does require some technical knowledge, as you need to carefully define the security rules and policies. However, many Linux distributions come with pre-configured SELinux settings.

My program can’t access a file it needs – is SELinux blocking it?

Quite possibly! SELinux may be preventing that program from accessing the file based on its security policies. You would need to adjust the SELinux rules to grant access.

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