Specialized Cybersecurity & Cognitive Security
Linux Kernel Hardening with LSMs
Linux security modules enforce mandatory access control below the application layer, so even a compromised process is constrained by policy. SELinux, AppArmor, and newer eBPF-based modules each take a different approach to confinement. The value is real, but only if policies are maintained and tested, because a stale or permissive policy gives a false sense of safety.
Puntos clave
- Enable an LSM at boot and confirm it is enforcing, not just in permissive mode.
- Start with a baseline policy and tighten it based on observed application behavior.
- Use eBPF-based tools for dynamic, programmatic enforcement where static policy is too coarse.
- Protect kernel attack surfaces by disabling unused modules, sysctls, and debug interfaces.
- Apply kernel and microcode updates promptly, since many exploits target the kernel itself.
- Log denials and review them regularly to catch both attacks and policy gaps.
- Test policies in staging with real workloads before enforcing in production.
- Document exceptions so temporary relaxations do not become permanent.
Preguntas frecuentes
SELinux or AppArmor?
SELinux is more granular; AppArmor is simpler to write. Choose based on team skill and distribution defaults.
Do LSMs slow the system?
Usually slightly; measure on your workload before assuming.
Can eBPF replace SELinux?
It complements it with dynamic rules, but it is not a full policy framework on its own.
What is the biggest hardening mistake?
Leaving the module in permissive mode and calling it done.
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