April 6th, 2021
A dedicated server host is ideal for high-traffic websites and established businesses. With this option, users have full control over the server and its resources. Therefore, they can optimize it to meet their security and performance needs.
If you sign up for dedicated hosting, you won't be sharing the server with other users. This leads to increased speed, higher security, and better performance. Plus, you can use the server to host websites, apps, chat rooms, computer games, and more.
Note that dedicated server hosting requires technical know-how. If you're not tech-savvy, consider using a managed dedicated server. This will ensure that your web host takes care of server security, maintenance, and updates.
Unmanaged dedicated servers are more affordable than managed services, but they require taking extra steps to protect your data. Failure to do so can result in password breaches, malware, and DDoS attacks. Use these tips to secure your dedicated server and keep your website running smoothly!
Schedule Regular Updates
Outdated software applications are vulnerable to cyber-attacks and can affect website performance. That's why it's important to check for and install updates regularly.
Security updates are often designed to fix bugs that could leave your apps vulnerable to malware. Most times, it takes minutes to install them. Ideally, it would be best if you did it as soon as they become available.
Remove Unnecessary Software
As a general rule, remove unnecessary software and only install what you need. This applies to all types of software, including WordPress plugins.
Unnecessary services can increase the risk of a cyber attack. It's also a good idea to remove any apps, files, and other resources you don't use or need. Any of them could become a target for hackers.
Manage User Access
Make sure you know exactly who has access to the server. Ideally, disable direct root-user access to prevent potential threats.
To further increase server security, set up a limited user account and multiple accounts with different employees' roles.
Set Password Requirements
Establish password requirements for those who have access to the server. For example, you can enforce two-factor authentication and password expiration policies.
Consider using passphrases rather than passwords. A secure passphrase may consist of several words, digits, spaces, and special characters. You may also use misspelled or abbreviated words and replace one or more letters with numerical characters.
Generally, passphrases can have up to 100 characters. Passwords contain fewer than 20 characters. Use LastPass, KeePass, or other similar apps to keep track of your passwords and passphrases.
Install a Firewall and DDoS Protection
Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks target multiple machines or IP addresses, making them unavailable. These malicious attempts are responsible for one-third of all downtime incidents.
One of the best things you can do to secure a dedicated server is installing DDoS protection and a firewall. The latter will restrict, allow, and filter access to the server based on a defined security ruleset.
Choose a Dedicated Server Host You Can Trust
Take the above steps to protect your server from malware and unauthorized use. Make sure you also choose a dedicated server host that provides support around the clock.
Better yet, sign up for managed dedicated hosting. With this service, you'll have peace of mind knowing that a team of experts monitors your servers 24/7. Reach out to our team to help you choose a plan that meets your needs!