Setting up IPTables rules

[memnarc]

I'm new to linux and recently installed Linux Mint on my computer.  On Windows 7, I have a very good firewall that I trust and use on all my computers.  As far as I know, for linux, the firewall is built into the system and we only have to set up these "ip tables" rules?  What kind of rules should I implement?  The more secure the system the better.  I am using LInux as a bare-bones system for now. 

Thanks!

 

[BlackoutIsHere]

The best way to secure your firewall is simply to drop ALL inbound connections that are not whitelisted. For example you might whitelist a port you want to be open but all others will remain closed.

 

[wlanboy]

Maybe this thread would be interesting for you:

http://vpsboard.com/topic/980-iptablesip6tables-one-file-script/

 

[switsys]

If you're also looking for a simple and relaxing way to set these rules up; (as opposed to doing it the "hard and manly" way
then I suggest that you install webmin and just click your way through the 'network -> linux firewall'-section.

And then, if you feel you should tighten it up even further, still while laid back; you can look for pre-configured iptables rule-files.
There's always tons of people competing, looking to have the tightest possible firewall setup.

 

[InfiniteTech]

If you are starting out, use Webmin's GUI interface for configuring iptables. It's easy to use and you'll learn how it works as well.

Then do as root:

# service iptables save

Open and read /etc/sysconfig/iptables (RH based Linux flavors)

 

[Jeffrey]

IPTables can become a mess if you don't know what you're doing.  I agree with the others, try managing it with a GUI like WebMin.