# Cis GCP Cos 5.1.10

> Ensure SSH root login is disabled

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-5-1-10` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-5-1-10`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-5-1-10/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: DevOps & Infra
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-5-1-10

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# 5.1.10 Ensure SSH root login is disabled (Automated)

## Description

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.

## Audit Procedure

Run the following command and verify that output matches:

```bash
# sshd -T | grep permitrootlogin

PermitRootLogin no
```

## Expected Result

Output should show `PermitRootLogin no`.

## Remediation

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

```
PermitRootLogin no
```

## Default Value

PermitRootLogin without-password

## CIS Controls

| Controls Version | Control                                                                   | IG 1 | IG 2 | IG 3 |
| ---------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---- | ---- | ---- |
| v8               | 5.4 Restrict Administrator Privileges to Dedicated Administrator Accounts | x    | x    | x    |
| v7               | 4.3 Ensure the Use of Dedicated Administrative Accounts                   | x    | x    | x    |

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server