setlogcons

setlogcons [context]

context
    The SELinux security context to set for console logins.
This must be a valid context string.

The setlogcons command sets the SELinux security context used for console logins. It's primarily utilized in conjunction with systemd-logind to manage the security context associated with the console and its users. Essentially, it allows you to define a specific SELinux context that will be applied to the user session when they log in through the console. This is crucial for enforcing mandatory access control policies on console sessions and limiting the privileges of console users. The context is stored persistently in the kernel and survives reboots. Improper use can lead to the console becoming inaccessible, so understanding SELinux and its implications is essential before employing this command.

Using an incorrect or inappropriate context can render the console unusable, requiring recovery methods. It's generally recommended to use this command in conjunction with a systemd service or similar mechanism to ensure the context is properly managed. Incorrectly setting the context can interfere with graphical login managers and other system services.

Always verify the target security context before applying it. Consult your SELinux policy documentation to ensure the chosen context is appropriate for console logins. Use 'systemctl status systemd-logind' to verify if systemd-logind is running and managing console sessions. If systemd-logind is not running, this command may not behave as expected.

If you encounter errors while using setlogcons, check the system logs (/var/log/messages, /var/log/audit/audit.log) for SELinux denials or other relevant messages. Make sure that the SELinux policy allows the current user to change the context to the desired target context.

The setlogcons command emerged as part of the SELinux project, designed to enhance the security of Linux systems through mandatory access control. Its development was driven by the need to precisely control the security context of various system components, including console logins. Initially, managing console security contexts was a more manual and error-prone process. setlogcons simplified this, providing a dedicated tool for specifying the login context and integrating seamlessly with systemd for persistence and automation. Its adoption has been closely tied to the broader deployment of SELinux in enterprise environments where strict security policies are paramount.

chcon(1), restorecon(8), selinux(8), systemd-logind(8)