SELinux System Administration: Security & Management (2013)

Strengthen your Linux server defenses with this comprehensive SELinux system administration guide. Learn how to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) to enforce access control policies and secure critical systems. This book provides practical insights and real-world examples for system administrators and security professionals looking to master SELinux.

What You’ll Learn

• Core concepts and architecture of SELinux
• How SELinux enforces mandatory access control (MAC)
• Understanding and managing SELinux policies
• Configuring policy modules and custom rules
• Troubleshooting SELinux errors and audit logs
• Implementing SELinux in server environments
• Balancing usability and security in policy enforcement

Requirements

• Working knowledge of Linux system administration
• Basic understanding of access control concepts
• Familiarity with command-line tools

Book Description

This SELinux system administration guide is designed to help administrators confidently deploy SELinux in enterprise or personal environments. The book begins with foundational topics—what SELinux is, why it exists, and how it works—before diving into hands-on configurations and real-world use cases.

Through clear examples and step-by-step instructions, you’ll learn how to write and modify policies, use key tools like semanage and audit2allow, and interpret SELinux logs to identify and resolve security issues. Special attention is given to integrating SELinux with services like Apache, SSH, and databases, making this an ideal reference for securing web servers and application stacks.

By the end of this book, you’ll not only understand how SELinux works—you’ll be able to wield it as a powerful tool for system security and integrity.

About the Author

Written by a seasoned Linux security expert, this guide draws from years of experience managing secure systems in production environments. The author’s approach emphasizes both technical accuracy and practical usability.

Explore These Valuable Resources

• CentOS Wiki: SELinux HowTos
• Red Hat SELinux Administration Guide
• LinuxSecurity: SELinux Concepts and Tutorials

Explore Related Courses

• Linux Administration Basics
• Red Hat Security Essentials
• Server Hardening with SELinux
• Linux Security Fundamentals
• Advanced Linux Policy Management