I'm really interested in minimalistic, secure linux setups. I like knowing exactly what processes are running (with what permissions), who can do what (start with no permissions and add as needed), and picky stuff like that. Does anyone have any suggestions as to a distro that focuses on this (preferably one you have used and can comment on)?
Some may disagree, but I think that Gentoo Linux is the best linux distro available for a few uses. Secure servers is one of them. By default, gentoo doesn't install any network services. After a new box is built and ready to use, it doesn't have anything that would pose a security risk. If you need anything, you must get it explicitly. The getting is the valuable part; it's very simple to do. And, you can apply the bastille linux scripts to a gentoo system (I think... not sure on this one).
It's also the easiest to configure (for me). I've used freebsd a bit, not as much, but for a while. Gentoo and FreeBSD are very similar in my opinion.
Mark
-- When the dust has cleared And victory denied A summer too lofty A river a little too wide If we keep our pride Though paradise is lost We will pay the price But we will not count the cost
-Rush, Roll the Bones, Bravado
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