Linux: AntiSpyware and AntiVirus Software

The Linux platform is not generally vulnerable to viruses and spyware due to the design of the operating system. We do recommend the use of robust firewalls for preventing intrusions as well as using good administrative practices like not running applications and processes unnecessarily as the root user.

If you are interested in the products that doexist for the platform, we recommend you visit the following site on the Web:

• http://www.clamav.net/

• http://www.centralcommand.com/

• http://www.openantivirus.org/

While it appears that Linux users really do not need antispyware and/or antivirus software, getting and keeping up to date with the latest practices in system security is the way to go.

We also recommend the following sites as additional resources on that subject:

• http://www.at.vcu.edu/faq/unix/security.html

• http://www.itc.virginia.edu/unixsys/sec/

If you have questions, please contact the ITS Help Desks at helpdesk@psu.edu.