Abstract: A linear drive without a piston rod has a guide tube closed on the end faces and with a piston mounted so as to be slidably displaceable therein. The guide tube is provided with a longitudinal slot over its entire length. A web connected to the piston and used for guiding out forces projects through the longitudinal slot. Separate profile elements are provided in the longitudinal slot on its flanks and protect the flanks of the longitudinal slot against damage caused by the web.