5.2.10 Ensure SSH root login is disabled

Information

The PermitRootLogin parameter specifies if the root user can log in using ssh. The default is no.

Rationale:

Disallowing root logins over SSH requires system admins to authenticate using their own individual account, then escalating to root via sudo or su. This in turn limits opportunity for non-repudiation and provides a clear audit trail in the event of a security incident

Solution

Edit the /etc/ssh/sshd_config file to set the parameter as follows:

PermitRootLogin no

Default Value:

PermitRootLogin without-password

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/2925