This Specialization will show you the ins and outs of Linux security, from protecting your Linux server environment from attacks to working with services and systems, securing SSH, and more. Learn how to use Linux as a server while also exploring how to cover client-side Linux security. The course has dozens of hand-on demonstrations so you can practice your skills as you learn.
Linux Security Basics and Beyond Specialization
Linux Security Basics and Beyond Specialization
Learn the ins and outs of Linux security. Use Linux as a server and learn how to secure it against attacks.
Instructor: Pearson
Included with 
Get in-depth knowledge of a subject
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
1 month at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Earn a career credential
Share your expertise with employers
Get in-depth knowledge of a subject
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
1 month at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Earn a career credential
Share your expertise with employers
What you'll learn
Gain expertise in securing Linux systems by learning to update, patch, and lock down various Linux distributions, including Debian, Ubuntu & CentOS.
Develop practical skills in configuring firewalls and securing SSH to protect individual Linux servers and entire networks from potential threats.
Enhance your knowledge of Linux file security by understanding how to safeguard storage drives, files, and access.
Overview
Skills you'll gain
- Zero Trust Network Access
- Operating System Administration
- Linux Commands
- Remote Access Systems
- Hardening
- File Management
- User Accounts
- Authentications
- Data Security
- OS Process Management
- Linux Servers
- Continuous Monitoring
- IT Security Architecture
- Linux Administration
- Application Security
- Security Strategy
- Network Security
What’s included
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Taught in English
Recently updated!
July 2025
19 practice exercises
Advance your subject-matter expertise
- Learn in-demand skills from university and industry experts
- Master a subject or tool with hands-on projects
- Develop a deep understanding of key concepts
- Earn a career certificate from Pearson
Specialization - 4 course series
What you'll learn
Master user authentication methods, including GUI, CLI, and SSH for local and cloud systems.
Implement best practices for password security and management in Linux environments.
Understand and apply the principle of least privilege to enhance system security.
Differentiate and manage user privileges using su, sudo, and sudoers files.
Skills you'll gain
Authentications, User Accounts, Linux, Authorization (Computing), Cryptographic Protocols, Security Controls, Linux Administration, Command-Line Interface, System Configuration, and Remote Access Systems
What you'll learn
Understand and apply the principles of in-depth defense strategies and the CIA triad to Linux security.
Efficiently update and manage Linux systems to enhance security and performance.
Harden Linux distributions by configuring services and implementing best practices.
Secure applications using Linux security modules like AppArmor and SELinux.
Skills you'll gain
Linux, Hardening, Information Systems Security, Ubuntu, Application Security, Operating System Administration, Patch Management, Service Management, Linux Administration, and Security Controls
What you'll learn
Understand and implement various Linux-based firewall technologies, including UFW, firewalld, and nftables.
Configure and manage firewalls to control network traffic and enhance system security.
Secure SSH connections using keys and advanced configuration techniques.
Develop a comprehensive security strategy with a focus on zero trust principles.
Skills you'll gain
Zero Trust Network Access, Firewall, Network Security, System Configuration, Unix, Systems Administration, Ubuntu, Security Strategy, Linux, Remote Access Systems, Linux Administration, and Security Controls
What you'll learn
Implement RAID systems and backup solutions to enhance data redundancy and availability.
Master file permissions, ownership, and encryption to secure sensitive information.
Analyze and manage Linux processes to optimize system performance.
Utilize advanced logging and auditing tools to maintain vigilant security monitoring.
Skills you'll gain
Data Security, OS Process Management, File Management, Information Systems Security, Encryption, Linux Servers, Network Analysis, Linux, Linux Commands, Vulnerability Scanning, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Network Security, Continuous Monitoring, Data Storage Technologies, Data Storage, and Linux Administration
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Compare with similar products
| Rating | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level | ||||
| Skills | ||||
| Tools | ||||
| Last updated | ||||
| Number of practice exercises | ||||
| Degree eligibility | ||||
| Part of Coursera Plus |
You might also like
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.
Yes! To get started, click the course card that interests you and enroll. You can enroll and complete the course to earn a shareable certificate. When you subscribe to a course that is part of a Specialization, you’re automatically subscribed to the full Specialization. Visit your learner dashboard to track your progress.
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
More questions
Financial aid available,