Last updated on September 3rd, 2022
When you order your cheap dedicated server like a Linux server, no security protocols are implemented natively. It is therefore up to you to secure your Linux dedicated server.
Linux Dedicated Servers have their advantages. In fact, Linux Dedicated Server is much more secure but they’re not perfect so don’t take things for granted. Even the most hardened Dedicated Servers can be hijacked.
We know that the only good server is a secure server, and so we’ve pulled together our 10 top steps for securing a Linux Dedicated Server so that you can stop the hackers at the gates before your site is breached and they gain access to sensitive data. The steps are below;
Step 1 – Install Only What You Need: The first step is to always keep your server lean and mean. Install only those packages that you really need. If there are unwanted packages; purge them.
Step 2 – Change the default SSH listening port: One of the first things to do also on your cheap dedicated server is to configure the SSH service by changing the listening port. By default, the listening port is set up on port 22 so it’s advisable to change it to something other than the default value.
Step 3 – Disable Your Root Logins: If you want a secure Linux Dedicated Server, then you should never log in as the root user.
By default, every Linux Dedicated Server has “root” as a username so disabling logins from the “root” username adds a good layer of security.
Step 4 – Restrict Using Your Old Passwords: You can restrict users to use the same old passwords. You can locate the old password file at /etc/security/password. This can be done by using the PAM module.
Step 5 – Back up your system and your data: Securing your data is a major element, which is why we offer you a large GB of free backup storage with your dedicated server.
Step 6 – Secure The Console Access: You must protect Linux Dedicated Server console access by disabling the booting from the external devices such as DVDs / CDs / USB pen after BIOS setup
Step 7 – Remove unwanted modules: It’s unlikely that you’ll need all of the modules/packages and services that came bundled with your Linux dedicated server distribution. Every service that you remove is one less weakness to worry about, so always make sure that you’re only running services that you’re really using.
Step 8 – Change the Port: You can change the default SSH Port to add a layer of opacity to keep your server safe.
Step 9 – Disable the server accessible via the root user: The root user has all the administrative rights to your system. It’s not advisable, and may even be dangerous, to leave your Dedicated Server accessible only through this user, as this account can perform irreversible operations on your Linux server.
Step 10 – Configure a firewall: Truth be told, you need a firewall if you want to truly secure your Linux Dedicated Server.
Also Read: Linux vs Windows Dedicated Server: What to Choose?
Luckily for you, there are a lot to choose from. NetFilter is a good firewall that comes integrated with the Linux kernel.
Whenever you need any help with your dedicated server or any server at all don’t be afraid to get in touch with us. We will be happy to help with it.
