Lynis
Tool manual · Kali & common usage
Linux · Beginner · Linux lane
What is Lynis?
Lynis audits Unix/Linux hardening and configuration baseline.
Host hardening checklist for systems you administer.
Official website: Lynis · Documentation
When do you use it?
- You need Audit Linux systems for hardening opportunities.
- You are following a CYNARKS lab or authorized engagement that calls for Lynis.
- You already tried simpler checks and need this tool’s deeper capability.
Who uses it?
- Security practitioners
- Students in authorized labs
- Engineers validating their own systems
How do you use it? (typical flow)
- Install Lynis using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
- Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
- Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
- Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
- Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).
Help & manual (like man / --help)
Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.
1. Help
lynis show options
2. Man
man lynis
Kali Linux
sudo apt install lynis
1. Installation
| OS | Installation |
|---|---|
Kali Linux | sudo apt install lynis |
Official | See official docs: https://cisofy.com/lynis/ |
2. Basic commands
1. Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
sudo lynis audit system
Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
2. Show help
sudo --help
List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).
3. Short help
sudo -h
Alternate help flag when supported.
4. List all options
--help / -h
List all options
Options / flags
| Option | Purpose |
|---|---|
--help / -h | List all options |
5. Useful features
- Core workflow and interface
- Reading and interpreting output
- Key configuration options
- Integrating into a professional workflow
6. Practical examples
Example 1: Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
sudo lynis audit system
Safe example against your own lab data or localhost
Example 2: Show help
sudo --help
List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).
Example 3: Short help
sudo -h
Alternate help flag when supported.
Example 4: List all options
--help / -h
List all options
7. Important notes
- Lynis is used by professionals for legitimate defense, testing and research.
- Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
- Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.
Related course: linux fundamentals · cybersecurity fundamentals · Commands: /commands#linux