You are currently viewing VPS Security – How To Secure Your VPS from Hackers?

Any VPS can be hacked with adequate time and knowledge. But administrators can reduce the risks of successful attacks. Sophisticated malicious programs have a negative impact not only on the local computers. They traverse the network, affecting other systems.

Furthermore, hackers can expose data stored on the local server. Therefore, before selecting a web hosting provider, you must visit the website to find out what security measures are taken by the host to ensure the safety of the infrastructure. 

Even if you are satisfied with everything, you should not relax. Knowing how to secure the VPS can help you avoid many cyber threats and attacks. However, it is not a one-time task; besides applying best security practices, one must continuously monitor the VPS. 

With this in mind, we have listed some security tips to prevent cyber attacks on the VPS:

Never Ignore the Updates to the Software You Use 

The developers fine-tune each new version of the software. And one of the parameters that are always emphasized is security. The new code, unknown to hackers, will make intruders work hard. Or even keep them off the server. A good practice is to test updates on a backup server. Checking software should be done before it is uploaded to a working environment.

Enable Two-Factor Password Authentication 

Check the strength of the password you use for the cloud accounts and enforce the minimum password implementation policy. Never use the same password for different resources; get a password manager, and set unique passwords for each service. Enable minimum two-factor authentication to preserve data and protect your account. Ensure that you will be told if someone is trying to reset your secret key, and if security problems are included, make sure you pick deep questions.

Use Licensed Software 

Although you can find open-source, free, accessible software for every taste in libraries, it is better to download applications from official sites. Otherwise, you risk getting malicious scripts and useful programs into the server environment. And this undermines the security of your infrastructure.

Use Strong Passwords 

Passwords containing information about your identity or simple passphrases are easy to guess. Therefore, create a long and strong password with several elements, such as lower and upper case letters, numbers, and special characters. Doing so will secure your system against brute-force attacks. Additionally, don’t reuse the same password. You can also employ online tools such as NordPass or LastPass to create strong passwords. Both offer good customization options, such as limiting the password length and the usage of characters.

Always Maintain Backups

Set up automatic backups of data from the server. Even if a hacker attack happens and the web resource goes down, it can be recovered in a secure environment without going online. This will help save data and review security.

Disable Unused Network Ports; Disable IPv6

Cybercriminals primarily target open network ports and unused network services, and you’ll need to secure yourself from misuse. Use the “netstat” command to view all open network ports and related services. Hackers who send malicious traffic via IPv6 and leave the protocol open can expose you to potential attacks. IPv6 has some advantages over IPV4, but a smaller group of users uses it. Use “iptables” to close all open ports or use the “chkconfig” command to disable unnecessary services.

Install Anti-Virus Applications 

The key task of a firewall is to prevent access to any known source of malicious traffic, and it essentially serves as your first line of protection. But no firewall is flawless and malicious applications can still slip through, which is why you need to defend yourself further. Unfortunately, too many inexperienced server administrators have neglected to install anti-malware apps. The most obvious explanation is not ignorance. It is because they do not wish to spend money on security products.

This article offers the minimum needed to secure a VPS. Additional security layers can and should be activated depending on the server’s use. These layers can include such items as individual application configurations, intrusion detection software, and access controls.

Applying some extra measures to maximize the security available will never be a bad idea, so we hope these tips were helpful. Choose the web hosting option that meets your specific needs and go from there. 

The key takeaway is that you must determine what security measures are essential. Always be aware of the risks and difficult choices and settle on the balance between usability and protection that makes sense to you. 

For more information on securing your VPS, connect with us at SPARK Services. We can help with that! 

Robert E. Allen Jr.

About Robert E. Allen Jr. A Journey of Integrity, Innovation, and Impact Welcome to my corner of the web, where the confluence of technology, entrepreneurship, and ethical business practices come to life. I'm Robert E. Allen Jr., a proud native of southern Ohio, where my roots run deep into the fabric of community and hard work. My journey in the tech world began at Shawnee State University, a chapter filled with exploration and the beginnings of a lifelong passion for computer science. However, my academic path took a turn toward the prestigious halls of Penn State, where I completed my degree and set the foundation for what would become a nearly three-decade-long adventure in business. Building an Empire on Principles Nearly 30 years ago, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, not just to start a business, but to build an empire defined by a commitment to ethical practices and community service. Inspired by the Rotary four-way test—Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?—my business philosophy centers on these questions, guiding every decision and interaction. This ethos has not only shaped my professional life but has also fostered a culture of integrity, trust, and mutual respect within my company and with our clients. A Family Man at Heart Beyond the world of bits, bytes, and business, my life is rich with love and laughter, thanks to my wife and our two wonderful daughters. They are my why, the reason behind every late night, every early morning, and every decision to push the boundaries of what's possible. Together, we've created a life filled with memories, learning, and love—a true testament to the balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment. Looking Forward As I look to the future, my goal is to continue leveraging technology to make a positive impact on the world, guided by the principles that have brought me this far. I strive to innovate, to lead with integrity, and to inspire those around me to do the same. Whether through my business endeavors, community service, or simply by being a role model to my daughters, my journey is about creating a legacy that transcends technology—a legacy of positive change, ethical leadership, and a commitment to making the world a better place for future generations. Thank you for visiting my site. I hope to not only share my journey with you but also to inspire you to pursue your passions, lead with integrity, and make a meaningful impact in your corner of the world.