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Linux Kernel Security

Many important security configurations can be set using kernel parameters. In this hands-on lab, we will learn how to find and modify these parameters using various utilities. These skills are essential for passing advanced security certification exams such as the LPIC 303-200 exam.

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Labs

Path Info

Level
Clock icon Advanced
Duration
Clock icon 30m
Last updated
Clock icon Sep 04, 2025

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Table of Contents

  1. Challenge

    Create a Text File for the Kernel Parameters

    1. Run the following command:
    touch /home/cloud_user/investigate.txt

  2. Challenge

    Install the Kernel Documentation

    1. Run the following command:
    sudo yum install kernel-doc

  3. Challenge

    Find and Document the Value of the `randomize_va_space` Parameter

    1. View the value of the randomize_va_space parameter by running the following command:
    sysctl -ar randomize_va
    1. Add the value to the investigate.txt file.
    sysctl -ar randomize_va >> investigate.txt

  4. Challenge

    Find and Document the Values of All ICMP Kernel Parameters

    1. Run the following command:
    sysctl –ar icmp >> investigate.txt

  5. Challenge

    Temporarily Disable ICMP Using a Kernel Parameter

    1. Run the following command:
    sudo sysctl –w net.ipv4.icmp_echo_ignore_all=1

  6. Challenge

    Find and Document the Current Kernel Security Limits

    1. View the contents of /etc/security/limits.conf.
    vim /etc/security/limits.conf
    1. Write the contents of /etc/security/limits.conf to investigate.txt.
    cat /etc/security/limits.conf >> investigate.txt
    1. Locate the current security limits for cloud_user.
    ulimit -a
    1. Write the output of the ulimit -a command to investigate.txt.
    ulimit -a >> investigate.txt
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Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

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