Linux admins,
Not all Linux distributions are created equal when it comes to security and privacy. When we wrote the Linux Security HOWTO in the 90s, distributions still shipped with telnet enabled. Secure Shell was just getting started, and we were using hardware accelerators to provide SSL for https websites. A lot has changed since then, but security is all about tradeoffs. Thankfully a few distros exist that are focused on security and privacy. Qubes OS utilizes a "Security by Isolation" approach, while Tails is well-suited for users requiring high levels of privacy and anti-censorship. Read on to learn about which of the secure Linux distros are best for you.
I'll also share essential tips for updating and upgrading your Linux distro.
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Yours in Open Source,
Dave Wreski
LinuxSecurity Founder
Explore the Top Secure Linux Distros for Privacy & Security in 2025
Privacy and security have never been more important—or more under threat. With headlines constantly reporting data breaches, hacks, and the unchecked collection of sensitive personal information, it’s easy to feel like your digital life is always at risk. However, there’s a silver lining for Linux users: experts widely agree that Linux is a highly secure OS—arguably the most secure OS available. That said, not all Linux distributions are created equal. While every distro benefits from the inherent strengths of Linux, some go the extra mile in safeguarding your privacy and security. From those designed for enterprise-grade reliability to others explicitly built for anonymity, there’s a distro tailored to meet your needs. We’ve explored some of the best specialized secure Linux distros, including insights from their developers, to help you navigate the options. Whether you’re focused on advanced security frameworks, protecting personal data, or simply locking down your system, this guide will help you choose the Linux distro that fits your priorities and gives you confidence in your digital security. |
Essential Tips for Updating & Upgrading Your Linux Distro
In this article, I'll guide you through checking installed versions of packages and performing security updates on popular Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Arch Linux, and openSUSE, thus reducing potential risks that could threaten the security and availability of your systems and your critical data. This is precisely the type of resource I was seeking as a junior sysadmin, and I hope these instructions will help make your Linux administration journey simpler and safer. Let’s get started! |
Applying security updates promptly after they are released is critically important for us Linux admins, as this practice helps protect against vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit. Failing to update could expose your Linux systems to cyberattacks, data breaches, and other severe security risks.
