Designed for both beginners and seasoned IT professionals, this course delves into the critical aspects of user security on Linux systems. Through a series of engaging lessons, you'll explore foundational concepts such as user authentication, password management, and the principle of least privilege. Gain hands-on experience with real-world scenarios, including logging in as typical and enterprise users, securing systems with SSH, and managing user privileges with su, sudo, sudoer commands. By the end of this course, you'll be equipped with the skills to effectively safeguard Linux environments, ensuring robust security for both individual and enterprise systems.
Linux Security Basics and Beyond: Unit 1
Linux Security Basics and Beyond: Unit 1
This course is part of Linux Security Basics and Beyond Specialization
Instructor: Pearson
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
4 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Master user authentication methods, including GUI, CLI, and SSH for local and cloud systems.
Implement best practices for password security and management in Linux environments.
Understand and apply the principle of least privilege to enhance system security.
Differentiate and manage user privileges using su, sudo, and sudoers files.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Recently updated!
July 2025
Assessments
4 assignments
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
This course is part of the Linux Security Basics and Beyond Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- 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 is about securing the user, one of the most important aspects of Linux security. It covers basic user security, including theory concepts and how to find out information about users, as well as passwords and the various ways to secure them. You will see demos of how to authenticate to Linux as a Typical user and Enterprise user, and by password and USB key, and learn about the concept of the principle of least privilege. Finally, you will learn about su, sudo, and sudoers and the differences between them.
What's included
25 videos4 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
Status: Free TrialLearnQuest
Status: Free Trial
Status: Free TrialUniversity of Colorado System
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
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,