1 Project Overview

This project aims to simulate, analyze, and mitigate SSH brute force attacks in a controlled home lab environment. By setting up an Ubuntu server, configuring SSH with password-based authentication, and using Hydra for brute force attacks, we will observe potential security vulnerabilities. The project will then implement Fail2Ban for intrusion prevention and strengthen security through SSH key-based authentication, effectively nullifying brute force threats.

2 Objectives

• Establish a secure Ubuntu server environment with SSH access.
• Demonstrate an SSH brute force attack using Hydra.
• Implement Fail2Ban to detect and block brute force attempts.
• Enhance security by configuring SSH key-based authentication.

3 Tools, Technologies

• Operating System: Ubuntu Server
• SSH Server: OpenSSH
• Brute Force Tool: Hydra
• Intrusion Prevention System: Fail2Ban
• Key-Based Authentication Tools: OpenSSH keygen utilities