Secure Programming for Linux and Unix HOWTO Prev Chapter 3. Summary of Linux and Unix Security Features Next 3.9. PAM Sun Solaris and nearly all Linux systems use the Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM) system for authentication. PAM permits run-time configuration of authentication methods (e.g., use of passwords, smart cards, etc.). See Section 10.5 for more information on using PAM. Prev Home Next Audit Up Validate All Input