Do you really not need Security with Linux?

[joedavid]

I'm new to Linux tried to download Free AVG and it did not work for me.
So Googled for answers, well surprised to read that anti-virus not needed with Linux, is this realy true?

Are you chaps not running AV/Firewall/Malware programmes?

If you are is there a sraight forward way to download them, with no messing with the boot up programing to change the risky bits in the PC, like so often the Google answers give.

Regards
David

[philcamlin]

yes you actually dont need an antivirus in ubuntu but its a good idea to get a firewall:popcorn:firestarter is an example but there are meny for ubuntu

[Crunchy the Headcrab]

AVG scans for Windows viruses so it really doesn't make a lot of sense to use it anyway. The reason that viruses are ineffective on Linux is because the kernel is constantly updated to remove such threats and because they can't run themselves with administrator privileges like they can in Windows (although windows is getting a little bit better about this too). Anyway the best policy is always to practice being web safe, but yeah, you shouldn't need antivirus on Linux.

It took me a while to accept it too, but after sitting and watching my processes and getting an understanding of what is running I feel confident now. I've never seen anything unusual.

[aysiu]

Of course you need security.

It's just that antivirus doesn't provide any.

[bodyharvester]

ubuntu has a firewall running somewhere but with all the fog i cant see it, firewalls like firestarter configure the one already running i scanned my comp today after trawling the most filthy sites and still have no infections :p i cant find one no matter where i look

good luck getting infected mate, ive been trying for bloody (yes im british) ages

EDIT: what im saying is, unless you specifically make something to mess with your linux and install it yourself the chances seem slim

[kerry_s]

i think you need at least some security other then admin functions.
i use the firewall in the router to cover everyone & just some basic changes to the system, like setting sudo timeout to 1 minute instead of the default 5 minutes, 5 minutes is just way to long i think. i also have a habit of changing my password every couple of months.

[Viva]

Whoever told you that needs a slap on his face. You need security in any OS. User privileges for example is probably the most powerful security feature in linux. You don't need an anti virus though.