Implement a Software Firewall on a Linux Server

Firestarter is a application based firewall that can be installed in most Linux distributions. Different from other traditional Linux firewalls are configured from the command line, Firestarter is a graphical program. The application involves a setup wizard enabling to create firewall in 5 steps. It enables viewing blocked access tries, make personal profiles for incoming as well as outgoing traffic and do advanced kernel tuning. These features make application suitable for a single desktop, a small home network or a larger, corporate network.

Install the Software

1. Step 1

Download and Install Firestarter.

2. Step 2

Launch the Firestarter graphical user interface. In the "Administration" under "System".

3. Step 3

Select "Forward".

4. Step 4

Select the network device in "Detected device(s):"

5. Step 5

Check the make sure carton near "IP address is assign via DHCP" if system uses DHCP.

6. Step 6

Select "Forward" twice.

7. Step 7

Hit "Save".

8. Step 8

Enter the root password to launch the regular Firestarter GUI. Firestarter will automatically start with a policy enabling normal Web browsing and email usage but restricts all outside attempts to access the network.

Creating a New Policy

9. Step 1

Click "Policy".

10. Step 2

Select whether the policy to apply to integrated traffic or outbound traffic from "Editing".

11. Step 3

Select whether to enable connections from "IP, host or network" by entering the connection.

12. Step 4

Click "Add".

13. Step 5

Right click "Allow Service" and select the right service.

14. Step 6

Select "Apply Policy".