does avast on ubuntu detect rootkits?

I just want to know, if not, then how do I prevent rootkits from entering my Ubuntu machine, thanks.

Not sure, lets wait for someone more knowledgable to answer. :wink:

We do know Avast4Linuxworkstations does detect ‘Windows Viruses’ so you don’t go spoiling everyone’s day infecting their Windows System.

There is a little program called “Chkrootkit” in my PCLinuxOS repository which it claims :
“… is a tool to locally check for signs of a rootkit.”
It does go on to say:
“Mainly designed to make busy work for people coming from Windows as they don’t have anything
to do and get bored unless they are scanning for something.” ???

Why do you think rootkits are likely to enter your machine?

Are you running a server or a machine to which bad people might have physical access?

If so, the answer is keep your system up to date and…

Limit users and permissions in your system. Harden offered services so that, in the event of a service compromise, the impact to your system is minimized. Use appropriate tools to guarantee that unauthorized use is detected so that you can take appropriate measures.

http://www.debian.org/doc/manuals/securing-debian-howto/ch2.en.html#s2.1