password security

JUbuntu · 03-20-2008, 03:07 AM

hi
i am new user of linux.
i have a question that as linux is open source so its password
encryption and other security related algorithms are also open
source. so is it make is unsecur? a hacked can read the code
and hack easily.

beadyallen · 03-20-2008, 03:28 AM

Lol. No mate, Linux is secure DESPITE everyone being able to read the source. That's what MAKES it secure. Many eyes and all that. Have a read here

Nathanael · 03-20-2008, 03:57 AM

default behaviour (in the mean time) is using shadow passwords. passwords are then md5 encrypted, which is not reversable - despite a bunch of claims on the web.

also the use of a encryption salt, or ssl certificats / private keys - even if the software for generating them is os - add a lot of security. though things have been cracked - you would have to be pretty interesting to be worth the time and effort.