On a default install of Fedora 14, and also the latest release candidate for 15, the user is presented with:

• An iptables rule that opens port 22 to the world
• sshd service automatically started
• sshd_config with default option: PermitRootLogin yes

It's like every new install comes with the keys to the castle hanging on outside of the door for anyone who comes knocking.

I find this situation a serious oversight in light of the fact that Fedora obviously values security (like selinux, or how the installer forces a minimum password length, etc)

Any experienced linux user will know to check iptables and disable unnecessary services, but I wouldn't expect this from a new linux user (exactly the people the refreshed GNOME experience is supposed to attract).  I think the default configuration should be in the name of security, and sshd should not be listening on a default port with an open rule with root login enabled.

~Team Edward~