? Back to Blog

Seccomp/AppArmor basics

Brendan G · 2026-04-22

Introduction to Seccomp and AppArmor

Seccomp and AppArmor are two Linux security frameworks designed to improve the security of the system by restricting the actions of a program. While both frameworks aim to prevent malicious software from causing harm, they differ in their approach and functionality.

What is Seccomp?

Seccomp, which stands for "secure computing," is a Linux kernel security module that restricts system calls made by a program. It works by allowing the system administrator to specify a set of allowed system calls, and any system calls not in this set are denied. This helps prevent malicious software from making unauthorized system calls.

How Does Seccomp Work?

  • Seccomp works by intercepting system calls made by a program and checking them against a set of allowed system calls.
  • System calls that are not in the set of allowed system calls are denied, preventing malicious software from making unauthorized requests.
  • Seccomp can be configured to allow or deny specific system calls, based on the program's behavior.

Seccomp Use Cases

Seccomp is commonly used in scenarios where a high level of security is required, such as:

  • Secure web servers: Seccomp can be used to restrict the system calls made by a web server, preventing malicious software from making unauthorized requests.
  • Database servers: Seccomp can be used to restrict the system calls made by a database server, preventing malicious software from accessing sensitive data.
  • Cloud environments: Seccomp can be used in cloud environments to restrict the system calls made by virtual machines, preventing malicious software from causing harm.
  • Virtual machines: Seccomp can be used to restrict the system calls made by virtual machines, preventing malicious software from accessing sensitive data.

What is AppArmor?

AppArmor is a Linux kernel security framework that restricts a program's access to system resources. It works by assigning a set of permissions to a program, which dictates what actions the program can perform. AppArmor uses a file system-based approach to enforce these permissions, which makes it easier to manage and configure.

How Does AppArmor Work?

  • AppArmor works by assigning a set of permissions to a program, which dictates what actions the program can perform.
  • AppArmor uses a file system-based approach to enforce these permissions, which makes it easier to manage and configure.
  • AppArmor can be configured to allow or deny specific actions, based on the program's behavior.

AppArmor Use Cases

AppArmor is commonly used in scenarios where a high level of security is required, such as:

  • Secure web servers: AppArmor can be used to restrict a web server's access to system resources, preventing malicious software from accessing sensitive data.
  • Database servers: AppArmor can be used to restrict a database server's access to system resources, preventing malicious software from accessing sensitive data.
  • File servers: AppArmor can be used to restrict a file server's access to system resources, preventing malicious software from accessing sensitive data.
  • Virtual machines: AppArmor can be used to restrict a virtual machine's access to system resources, preventing malicious software from accessing sensitive data.

Configuring Seccomp and AppArmor

Configuring Seccomp and AppArmor involves creating a set of rules that dictate what system calls or actions a program can perform. These rules are typically specified in a file or database, and are then loaded into the kernel.

Configuring Seccomp

For Seccomp, the rules are specified in a JSON file, which is then loaded into the kernel using the `seccomp` command. The rules can be configured to allow or deny specific system calls, based on the program's behavior.

Configuring AppArmor

For AppArmor, the rules are specified in a file system, which is then loaded into the kernel using the `apparmor_parser` command. The rules can be configured to allow or deny specific actions, based on the program's behavior.

Benefits of Using Seccomp and AppArmor

  • Improved security: Seccomp and AppArmor help prevent malicious software from causing harm by restricting system calls and access to system resources.
  • Reduced risk of data breaches: By restricting access to sensitive data, Seccomp and AppArmor help reduce the risk of data breaches.
  • Enhanced compliance: Seccomp and AppArmor can help organizations comply with regulatory requirements by providing a high level of security and control over system resources.

Conclusion

Seccomp and AppArmor are two powerful Linux security frameworks that can help improve the security of a system by restricting system calls and access to system resources. By understanding how Seccomp and AppArmor work, and how to configure them, system administrators can provide a high level of security and control over system resources.

Getting Started with Seccomp and AppArmor

If you're interested in learning more about Seccomp and AppArmor, here are some resources to get you started:

Join the affiliate program and earn 50%. No approvals, no waitlists.