Protecting AIX Servers Against Malware Threats

AIX is an open standards-based UNIX operating system, known for its longevity and reliability for server environments across industries around the globe. With organizations relying on AIX for mission critical workloads, cybersecurity consistently remains top of mind. In fact, in this year’s AIX Community Survey, cybersecurity was once again in the top three AIX concerns. This is understandable, as malware attacks are as widespread as ever, but server level protection can be ignored or misunderstood. Read on to find out what security challenges AIX servers face, and what can be done to overcome them.  

What Puts AIX Servers at Risk?

While organizations have become more proactive about cybersecurity, there is often a larger focus on applying antivirus software to their workstation PCs, with less attention paid to the server-side environment. Additionally, there is also a misconception that scanning client PCs is enough, preventing viruses from ever making it to the server.

Though awareness of AIX cybersecurity issues is increasing, there is still a concerning lack of protection throughout the AIX community. According to the 3rd Annual AIX Community Survey, even though cybersecurity was a top concern, only 49.8% reported currently having antivirus protection for their AIX servers. Additionally, 45% of respondents reported feeling that management underestimated security risks, perhaps indicating a general ambivalence towards AIX security, or a misconception that AIX is immune to malware threats.

Consequently, many AIX servers remain either partially or completely unprotected, but malware and other destructive entities can just as easily target your AIX servers (both on-premises or in the cloud). This is particularly problematic because many pieces of malware are designed specifically to attack large servers, which is what AIX typically operates on. For example, cryptojacking uses malware to take over a device, using its processing power to create cryptocurrency. When it comes to cryptojacking malware, the more power, the better. Unfortunately, this makes AIX servers perfect targets. For example, the malware dubbed Nansh0u​ targets corporate networks specifically.

How Can You Protect AIX Servers?

These days, most organizations have more than just one OS running in their IT environments. Effective malware defense requires multiple layers, with a holistic view that prioritizes protecting all platforms is the best way to fend off viruses, worms, and other malware threats. It’s important to step outside the Windows box and provide AIX servers with protection designed specifically for AIX.

Native scanning capabilities are essential for AIX servers. It ensures that this crucial endpoint has defenses that are reliable, doesn’t overburden the network, and scans every part of the server. Additionally, native antivirus uses signature files and behavioral scanning designed to detect AIX-specific threats, while still defending against widespread malware that targets multiple operating systems.

Powertech Antivirus for AIX protects your AIX systems by identifying, quarantining, and removing malicious programs before any harm is done. It offers the power and protection of the industry leading scan engines while supporting the specific features of your AIX operating system. With Powertech Antivirus in place, your AIX servers can remain the steady presence they have become known for.