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Does the Puppy's Security Model Still Make Sense in 2021?

Posted: Sat Jun 12, 2021 2:58 am
by sonny

This question was originally asked back in 2013:

https://unix.stackexchange.com/question ... -sense/8#8


Re: Does the Puppy's Security Model Still Make Sense in 2021?

Posted: Sat Jun 12, 2021 3:54 am
by darry19662018

Puppy Linux's use of the unionfs/aufs stacking file systems keep all but recently altered files on read-only layers. This provides an "undo" capability that allows easier restoration of the entire system to a known-good condition. As a last resort, the original system as distributed is kept on the bottom read-only layer where it can be rebooted to while preserving subsequent changes on the upper layers.

One of the reasons I prefer Puppy in a frugal install environment and if I am say super worried about exploits (I am not), then I have the choice to not save any changes and run a fresh copy of Puppy each time it is booted up with no savefile or savefolder same with the Dogs. Try doing that with the "Big Boy" Distros where running as a normal user is supposed to protect you from exploits.

Please read the following thread very interesting reading.

viewtopic.php?f=54&t=1583


Re: Does the Puppy's Security Model Still Make Sense in 2021?

Posted: Sat Jun 12, 2021 5:45 am
by sonny
darry19662018 wrote: Sat Jun 12, 2021 3:54 am

Puppy Linux's use of the unionfs/aufs stacking file systems keep all but recently altered files on read-only layers. This provides an "undo" capability that allows easier restoration of the entire system to a known-good condition. As a last resort, the original system as distributed is kept on the bottom read-only layer where it can be rebooted to while preserving subsequent changes on the upper layers.

One of the reasons I prefer Puppy in a frugal install environment and if I am say super worried about exploits (I am not), then I have the choice to not save any changes and run a fresh copy of Puppy each time it is booted up with no savefile or savefolder same with the Dogs. Try doing that with the "Big Boy" Distros where running as a normal user is supposed to protect you from exploits.

Please read the following thread very interesting reading.

viewtopic.php?f=54&t=1583

As far as I experience, an option not to save (PUPMODE=13) is only applicable to any changes made or happened in the "GUI" mode (i.e. PPM). If we install a package thru terminal, it's persistent.


Re: Does the Puppy's Security Model Still Make Sense in 2021?

Posted: Sat Jun 12, 2021 11:33 pm
by 8Geee

Well, the "old skool" method still is relevant, albeit using a DVD for larger pups. Run Puppy off the CD/DVD. Shutdown/NO save when done. Nonetheless, make some shanges to the browser like no autocomplete/look-ahead, and make duckduckgo the default search, removing all others. Addons like uBlock, ClearURL, and CSSexfil are still needed while on-line.

8Geee