Linux ready for US security overhaul

NEWS The US National Security Agency has teamed up with Network Associates to produce a super-secure version of the Linux operating system. Called SE (Security Enhanced) Linux, the OS has been developed because the NSA feels existing operating systems lack critical features to ensure the security of confidential information. The NSA has added mandatory access controls to the operating system, which it says are fundamental to ensuring the separation of confidential data. The NSA specifically chose Linux to make the enhancements to because its open source licence means the changes will be available to the wider developer community. The NSA said it hopes the work will prove that a high level of security is compatible with a mainstream operating system.