# Cis Ubuntu1204 V110 9 3 8

> Disable SSH Root Login

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1204-v110-9-3-8` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1204-v110-9-3-8`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1204-v110-9-3-8/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1204-v110-9-3-8

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# 9.3.8 Disable SSH Root Login (Scored)

## Profile Applicability

- Level 1

## Description

The `PermitRootLogin` parameter specifies if the root user can log in using ssh(1). The default is no.

## Rationale

Disallowing root logins over SSH requires server 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

### Using Command Line

To verify the correct SSH setting, run the following command and verify that the output is as shown:

```bash
grep "^PermitRootLogin" /etc/ssh/sshd_config
```

## Expected Result

```
PermitRootLogin no
```

## Remediation

### Using Command Line

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

```bash
PermitRootLogin no
```

## Default Value

PermitRootLogin no

## References

- CIS Ubuntu 12.04 LTS Server Benchmark v1.1.0

## Profile

Level 1 - Scored