You are currently viewing 5 Security Tips for Linux VPS Hosting

Just like every house on earth needs a piece of land where it can stand, every single website on the internet requires a space where it can be hosted. Consider this space the equivalent of internet real estate, where all the data on the website can be securely held.

VPS (Virtual Private Server) is a web hosting service that acts like a private space where one can host the website and all its content. It is virtual, implying that it’s online and it’s private, implying that it’s specifically for the website and not shared by anyone else. The best way to think about VPS is to view it as a ‘private room’ for the website on the internet, available to host all of the content & data on your website. A VPS also pops up your website when someone searches for it online. Just like opening a door when someone knocks on it!

What is Linux VPS Hosting?

Linux VPS is a virtual private server that uses Linux as its operating system. On top of that, there is also a high degree of variability regarding the choice of Linux VPS OS since the open-source nature of Linux allows the developers to create various distributions – Debian, Ubuntu, CentOS – of it, each with its distinctive features and policies.

Below are 5 Security Tips for Linux VPS Hosting.

1. Monitor Server Logs

Both host administrators and website owners should always have monitoring enabled. Monitoring servers require logging specific events such as authentication failures (and possibly successes), failed uploads, errors, and other common threats. These logs can then be used in analysis and reports that can offer administrators detailed information and insights into any activity on the server. In addition, logs can tell administrators of an ongoing attack or a compromise. Host administrators can monitor activity on their servers to ensure that customer sites are safe and secure, but website owners should also monitor them. The sooner a compromise is contained, the smaller the window of opportunity for an attacker to exfiltrate data incorrectly.

2. Switch off ports that are not being used

When you install Linux, various ports remain open, whether you need them or not. Each open port can be a potential means to hack the VPS, so don’t leave them open as long as you don’t need them. To do it, first, run the netstat -a command to detect the open ports. Next, find the ports that are not required now and disable them with the special command. For port 22, it will look like this, for example, iptables -I INPUT -p tep -dport 22 -j DROP.

3. Go for strong passwords

Simple as that. A weak password may be a serious breach of security, even if everything else about it is fine. That’s why don’t forget about taking care of your password, making it long enough – at least 10 to 12 characters, using diverse characters: numbers, special characters, both upper- and lowercase letters.

4. Use GnuPG Encryption

Any data transferred over the internet is vulnerable to eavesdropping. For example, websites use HTTPS to encrypt data between customers and websites, but other data could be intercepted – such as credentials sent to server services or files transferred over FTP. To overcome this issue, asynchronous encryption encrypts data with a public key that can then be decrypted only with the recipient’s private key.

The GnuPG application will let administrators and site owners transfer data using asynchronous encryption. The public key can be used by any third party to send encrypted data to the site owner or administrators, and the private key is used to decrypt it. Because the private key is used to decrypt data, it should be secured and never disclosed to a third party.

5. Go for a Hosting Provider that offers tight security

Customers rely on web hosts to keep the infrastructure secure. Not every web hosting provider treats security equally. To keep a website secure, customers should select their web host wisely.

Linux VPS is a wise choice that will offer you a decent level of security on its own. However, applying some extra measures to maximize the security available will never be a bad idea, so we hope these tips were helpful. Choose the hosting option that meets your specific needs and go from there. Connect with us at SPARK Services today to know more!

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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.