Essential First Steps for Every New Linux Server Build

Summary

In this video, the host provides a comprehensive guide on essential steps to take when setting up a new Linux server, focusing on Ubuntu and Fedora systems. Viewers learn how to install updates, create a non-root user, set the server's hostname, and configure SSH for secure access. The video emphasizes the importance of maintaining server security, including disabling password authentication and using SSH keys instead. By the end, users will have a well-configured server ready for use, alongside practical knowledge to enhance their Linux server management skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always install updates on a new Linux server to ensure security and stability.
• 🔐 Set up a non-root user account to avoid running as root, enhancing security.
• 💻 Use SSH for secure remote connections to your Linux server.
• 📦 For Ubuntu/Debian, use 'apt update' to refresh the package index and 'apt dist-upgrade' to install updates.
• 🐧 Fedora users should use 'dnf update' to upgrade packages.
• 🏷️ When creating a new user, use 'add user' with appropriate options for home directories and groups.
• 🌐 Set a descriptive hostname for your server to better identify its purpose.
• 📝 Update the /etc/hosts file to reflect the new hostname for local resolution.
• 🔑 Generate an SSH key pair to secure access and disable password authentication.
• 🚀 Restart the SSH service after making configuration changes to ensure they take effect.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video?

The video aims to guide viewers through essential steps to perform when setting up a new Linux server, including installing updates, creating a user account, and configuring SSH settings.

Why is it important to install updates on a new Linux server?

Installing updates is crucial as they often include security patches that help protect the server from vulnerabilities.

What command is used to update the package repository index on Ubuntu and Debian?

The command used is 'apt update'. This command synchronizes the package index with the repository to check for available updates.

What is the difference between the commands used for updating packages in Ubuntu and Fedora?

In Ubuntu and Debian, you use 'apt update' followed by 'apt dist-upgrade', while in Fedora, you simply use 'dnf update' to update all packages.

What is the recommended practice regarding user accounts when setting up a new server?

It is recommended to create a non-root user account to avoid using the root account for everyday tasks, which enhances security.

How can you add a new user in Fedora?

To add a new user in Fedora, you can use the command 'adduser -m -g users -G wheel username' where 'username' is the desired name of the user.

What does the command 'hostnamectl set-hostname' do?

The command 'hostnamectl set-hostname' allows you to set a descriptive name for the server, making it easier to identify in a network.

Why should you create an SSH key for your server?

Creating an SSH key allows for secure, password-less authentication to the server, reducing the risk of brute-force attacks on the password.

What changes should be made to the SSH configuration file to enhance security?

You should disable root login by setting 'PermitRootLogin' to 'no' and disable password authentication by setting 'PasswordAuthentication' to 'no' in the sshd_config file.

What should you do after making changes to the SSH configuration file?

After making changes, you need to restart the SSH service using the command 'sudo systemctl restart sshd' to apply the new settings.