Security Strategies in Linux Platforms and Applications, 3rd Edition

Linux as a Security Device

If a Linux distribution makes a distinction between server and desktop/workstation, it has more to do with the number of packages that may be installed by default than it does with any differences in the look and behavior of the operating system once everything is loaded up. Typically, a server operating system comes without a user interface other than the command-line shell. This limits the number of packages that are installed, which makes the installed system less vulnerable to attack. A smaller number of packages means a smaller surface area for attack, which hopefully limits the potential for exploitation of the system. Limiting the number of software packages installed is a fundamental step to system hardening. ...