this post was submitted on 24 Jul 2024
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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Having a port open is only a problem if something is listening on it that you didn't want to be. Which may be your concern - just clarifying in case you weren't sure.
Keeping a port open if you don't want it open is bad practice.
Why even bother having a firewall then? I mean, why block any ports if you're going to open the ports for services anyway, and there's nothing listening on the others, right?
The point of having a firewall is that you start with DENY on all possible chains and interfaces, and you describe explicitly what is allowed to happen.
A firewall thus becomes a living specification of the networking rules for your server, the same way ansible for example describes the functionality.
If you're not willing to do it like that then don't bother having a firewall, there's no point.
I'm responding to this
What you're saying is true - but practically speaking there isn't a real risk to having a port open that has nothing listening on it. Maybe a port scan can identity your OS a bit better.
The main goal should be having a thorough approach. People hear "firewall" and assume it means blocking things but it's really about having a comprehensive network specification.
Yes - again you're talking about "theory" and I agree completely. I'm not arguing with you.
I'm saying that "dude you're probably fine if you've opened your firewall for a while to get something working".