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Why I Always Set a Login Banner on Linux Servers (and What I Put in It)
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Most admins skip the login banner. It feels cosmetic — just text before the login prompt. But in reality, it’s one of the most underestimated security controls I use on my Linux servers.
Here’s why I always enable it, what I include in it, and how it helps both security and compliance.
🚨 Why a Login Banner Matters
- Legal Warning A banner makes it crystal clear: “Unauthorized access is prohibited.” This helps protect you legally if your system is breached.
- Deters Casual Attackers Automated bots won’t care — but opportunistic attackers often move on when they see a monitored system.
- Compliance Requirement CIS Benchmarks, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and government systems all require banners.
- User Accountability Even legit users are reminded that activity is logged and monitored.
🛠 Step 1: Set the Message
Edit /etc/issue for pre-login banners:
/etc/issue
vi /etc/issue
Example:
WARNING: This system is for authorized use only. All activities are monitored and logged. Unauthorized access will be prosecuted.
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