Profile Applicability:
 • Level 1

Description:
 iptables is a user-space utility program that allows a system administrator to configure the IP packet filter rules of the Linux kernel firewall. Ensuring iptables is installed is critical for managing firewall rules and enhancing system security.

Rationale:
 Having iptables installed allows for proper configuration of firewall rules to control network traffic, prevent unauthorized access, and protect against attacks.

Impact:
 Pros:

  • Enables effective network traffic filtering and firewall management.

  • Supports compliance with security policies.

Cons:

  • Installing iptables alone does not configure the firewall; rules must be properly set.

Default Value:
 iptables may not be installed by default depending on the Linux distribution.

Pre-requisites:

  • Root or sudo privileges to install packages.

Remediation:

Test Plan:

Using Linux command line:

1. Check if iptables is installed:

rpm -q iptables

2. Confirm the package presence.

Implementation Plan:

Using Linux command line:

  1. Install iptables if missing:

    yum install iptables -y


  1. Verify installation:
    iptables --version

Backout Plan:

Using Linux command line:

  1. Remove iptables if required:

    yum remove iptables -y

  1. Confirm removal.

References: