Re: Leaving a door open?

[Raphaël Rigo ML <ml () twilight-hall net>]

Emmanuel Goldstein wrote:
> Hi!
>
> My ISP gives me a static Ip and I was thinking about leaving the SSH
> port open so I can access my computer from anywhere since i always
> have it switched on.
>
> I have a linux box that is integrated in my home Lan, and a router
> with firewall capabilities.
>
> Is this secure??? Note that my admin password is really hard to guess,
> so im not concerned about bruteforce attacks.
>
> Should I map ports so instead of opening 22 I access through (eg) 'ssh
> -p 7623'. That way is not that obvious i have an open ssh port is, it?
>
> Any other security issues i should be concerned about?
> Is this a good idea?
> Is it better to just set up an ftp server?
>
>
> Thanks for your help. Cheers. Bye.
Hello,

I would say that leaving ssh open isn't that unsecure, but it depends on 
the level of security you want. If you update your ssh software when a 
vulnerability is found, then it should be ok.
Changing the port allows to avoid bruteforce attack but a determined 
attacker would find it.
If you are REALLY concerned about security, you could setup portknocking 
to open your ssh, but I think it would be overkill for home use.

My 2 cents,
Raphaël Rigo