Hi. I wanted to know if it's needed to install a firewall on a linux desktop/laptop. Why yes or why no?

  • flashgnash@lemm.ee
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    5
    ·
    1 year ago

    Any vulnerabilities in any of your software that can talk to a network, ssh, browser, the operating system itsself could be exploited if your firewall is down

    If you're using username and password and have ssh enabled, for example anyone on your network could attempt to log in to your machine

      • flashgnash@lemm.ee
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        2
        ·
        1 year ago

        At that point why not just have the firewall set to deny everything just to be safe though? There's always the chance you missed something that's decided to listen on some random port and if you aren't using anything that listens on a network why have the firewall open anyway

      • flashgnash@lemm.ee
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        1
        ·
        edit-2
        1 year ago

        My understanding is there can be a vulnerability in absolutely anything

        Browsers are unlikely to but don't think it's impossible

        • LufyCZ@lemmy.world
          link
          fedilink
          arrow-up
          1
          ·
          1 year ago

          A firewall protects open ports on your machine. A browser does not have any open ports.

          Of course they have vulnerabilities, but a firewall won't protect you from them.