This course is designed for aspiring Linux security administrators who are eager to enhance their skills in safeguarding systems and networks. In this course, you will delve into the world of firewalls, exploring tools like UFW, firewalld, and nftables, each offering unique capabilities for robust protection. You'll gain hands-on experience in configuring and managing these firewalls, ensuring your systems are shielded from unauthorized access. Additionally, you'll learn the practice of securing SSH connections, a critical skill for remote system administration. By the end of this course, you will have a solid understanding of firewall technologies and SSH security, empowering you to implement a multi-layered defense strategy with confidence.
Linux Security Basics and Beyond: Unit 3
This course is part of Linux Security Basics and Beyond Specialization
Instructor: Pearson
Included with 
Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Understand and implement various Linux-based firewall technologies, including UFW, firewalld, and nftables.
Configure and manage firewalls to control network traffic and enhance system security.
Secure SSH connections using keys and advanced configuration techniques.
Develop a comprehensive security strategy with a focus on zero trust principles.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Add to your LinkedIn profile
July 2025
5 assignments
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
There is 1 module in this course
This module introduces firewalls, which are used to permit or deny traffic to and from a computer or network. It covers different types of Linux-based firewalls and the meaning behind zero trust mindsets. You will learn about UFW, an uncomplicated firewall and the trade-offs in security that can be associated with ease-of-use firewalls. You'll learn about firewalld, a functional front-end firewall tool that offers increased security. You also learn about nftables and the nft command, currently the most powerful firewalling tool in Linux. Finally, you'll learn how to harden a secure shell server using keys and locking down the SSHD_config file, as well as why incorporating SSH security to firewalling is a critical security step and how to do it.
What's included
34 videos5 assignments
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.
Explore more from Support and Operations
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can preview the first video and view the syllabus before you enroll. You must purchase the course to access content not included in the preview.
If you decide to enroll in the course before the session start date, you will have access to all of the lecture videos and readings for the course. You’ll be able to submit assignments once the session starts.
Once you enroll and your session begins, you will have access to all videos and other resources, including reading items and the course discussion forum. You’ll be able to view and submit practice assessments, and complete required graded assignments to earn a grade and a Course Certificate.
More questions
Financial aid available,