Lynis

Host security auditing & hardening tool.

KaliParrotLinuxpassive

pkg: lynis

Lynis audits the local Unix/Linux system for hardening gaps, misconfigurations and compliance issues.

Syntax

lynis audit system

Example

sudo lynis audit system

Runs a full local hardening audit and prints suggestions with a hardening index.

Advantages
  • Excellent local hardening guidance
  • Agentless and read-only
  • Compliance-oriented reports
Disadvantages
  • Local host only (not remote)
  • Long suggestion lists to triage
  • Best run with root
Tags
#hardening#audit#host

Official docs: Lynis

Frequently asked questions

What is Lynis used for?
Lynis audits the local Unix/Linux system for hardening gaps, misconfigurations and compliance issues.
What is an example Lynis command?
A common example is: sudo lynis audit system — Runs a full local hardening audit and prints suggestions with a hardening index.
Is Lynis part of Kali Linux?
Yes. Lynis ships with Kali Linux (and Parrot OS). If missing, install it with: sudo apt install lynis.
What category of security tool is Lynis?
Lynis is a Vulnerability Analysis tool with a passive-risk profile when run against a live target.

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