Overview
iptables-apply minimizes the risk of connection loss when applying new iptables rules. If the connection is maintained or not confirmed by the user within a certain time after applying rules, it automatically reverts to the previous state, enhancing the stability of remote management.
Key Features
- Automatic rollback: Automatically restores previous rules upon rule application failure or timeout.
- Timeout setting: Specifies the waiting time for confirmation after rule application.
- Ensures safety during remote server operations: Prevents connection loss due to firewall configuration errors.
Key Options
Commonly used options with the iptables-apply command.
General Options
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Description:
`iptables-apply` Executes the command.
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Usage Examples
Practical usage examples of the iptables-apply command.
Apply Default iptables Rules File
sudo iptables-apply /etc/iptables/rules.v4Applies the rules defined in the /etc/iptables/rules.v4 file. The default 5-second timeout is applied.
Apply Rules with a 60-Second Timeout
sudo iptables-apply -t 60 /etc/iptables/rules.v4Rolls back if the connection is lost or not confirmed within 60 seconds after applying rules.
Apply Rules After User Confirmation
sudo iptables-apply -w /etc/iptables/rules.v4Waits for the user to press Enter after applying rules before rolling back.
Apply IPv6 Rules File
sudo iptables-apply /etc/iptables/rules.v6Applies the ip6tables rules file.
Installation
iptables-apply is typically provided as part of the iptables or netfilter-persistent package. Here's how to install it on major Linux distributions.
Debian/Ubuntu
sudo apt update
sudo apt install netfilter-persistentInstalls the netfilter-persistent package.
RHEL/CentOS/Fedora
sudo yum install iptables-services
# or
sudo dnf install iptables-servicesInstalls the iptables-services or iptables package.
Tips & Precautions
Useful tips and points to consider when using iptables-apply.
Safe Firewall Management
- When changing firewall rules on a remote server, always use `iptables-apply` to minimize the risk of connection loss.
- Set the timeout duration (-t) carefully. Too short a timeout may cause unintended rollbacks, while too long a timeout can delay recovery if a problem occurs.
- Make it a habit to back up your current rules with `iptables-save > /path/to/backup_rules.v4` before applying new rules.
- `iptables-apply` typically reads and applies rules from files like `/etc/iptables/rules.v4` or `/etc/iptables/rules.v6`. Ensure the file path is specified correctly.