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Servers – Ensure Root Login is Restricted to System Console
Support > Fixing Checks > Server
06 March, 2026
This check ensures that root login is restricted only to secure system consoles.
The /etc/securetty file defines which terminals are allowed for direct root login.
Restricting access to trusted consoles reduces the risk of unauthorized privileged access.
Check Details
- Resource: Server
- Check: Ensure root login is restricted to system console
- Risk: Allowing root login from unauthorized terminals can lead to privilege escalation and security breaches.
Remediation Steps
- Open a terminal session on the server with root or sudo privileges.
-
Check the list of terminals allowed for root login:
cat /etc/securetty
- Review the output and identify any terminals that are not in physically secure locations.
-
Open the configuration file for editing:
sudo vi /etc/securetty
- Remove entries corresponding to insecure or unauthorized terminals.
- Save the file and exit the editor.
- Ensure that only trusted console devices remain listed in the file.
- Perform regular audits to ensure compliance with security policies.