For this reason, many Linux users have long believed that the OS doesn’t need antivirus software. However, while Linux use on desktops has historically remained at relatively low levels, the inverse is true for servers. Antivirus is necessary for cybersecurity teams that wish to better protect their endpoints.
A question we ran across in our research was “Do I need antivirus software for Linux?”.
If you are running a Linux-based file server or mail server, you will probably want to use antivirus software. If you don’t, infected Windows computers may upload infected files to your Linux machine, allowing it to infect other Windows systems. The antivirus software will scan for Windows malware and delete it.
If you have a server of files or messages or file upload by someone (the upload must be tested/watched by antivirus just the repertory (like clamav)) Don’t imagine Linux like the others OS. On linux, the Antivirus scan such choosen specific repertories not the memory (like ClamAV).
Is Linux Antivirus really worth it?
It’s no surprise, then, that many IT professionals wonder whether it’s really worth installing antivirus software on their Linux servers. As it turns out, the answer, more often than not, is yes. One reason to consider installing Linux antivirus is that malware for Linux does, in fact, exist.
Many Linux systems allow a user to download free programes like AVG antivirus or an open-source software from the internet. If the newly downloaded software contains harmful content like viruses, there is a high risk your machine or Linux server will be compromised.
Can Linux get viruses?
However, you are very unlikely to stumble on — and be infected by — a Linux virus in the same way you would be infected by a piece of malware on Windows. Whatever the reason, Linux malware isn’t all over the Internet like Windows malware is. Using an antivirus is completely unnecessary for desktop Linux users.
Here are precautions to take to protect your Linux machines from threats such as malware or viruses, Linux user is advised to get trusted software from authorized repositories such as Github. If you are running cross-platform with a windows workstation; make sure to get up-to-date anti-virus software.
Is Linux safe to use?
Linux has gained a good name for being secure enough, and resistant to many malwares out there. Some of the popular Linux based operating systems are Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, Redhat, Debian, Arch. Nevertheless, none of these operating systems by default utilize a proper antivirus guard.
Are Linux servers safe?
One more thing to ponder upon is the fact that Linux servers can get hit by malware just like any other server. The desktop version of Linux is highly safe, but the servers can get infected if infected files hit them. This is a simple case that can be fixed very easily in Linux.