Server security: Best practices for large and small businesses
To fend off the increasingly sophisticated attacks of cybercriminals, a well thought-out server security is necessary. Among other security measures, a targeted security software plays a significant role when it comes to protecting large and small businesses from the worst threats.
The most common server security problems
Companies as well as private persons often ask themselves how to secure a server optimally. Depending on the existing IT infrastructure, this question can be quite complex. In addition, new vulnerabilities are emerging all the time, and companies should close them according to web server security best practices before attackers can exploit them. The following issues are most important in for server security:
- Passwords: Weak passwords pose a high risk. They can be easily hacked and sold for profit.
- Outdated software: Every software has its vulnerabilities. The problem with an outdated version is that cybercriminals know how to exploit them.
- Patches: Patch management can also be a source of danger in web server security.
- Network port: If the network ports are not configured sufficiently, then attackers can exploit this vulnerability for themselves.
- Old accounts: To increase file server security, old user accounts should be deleted as soon as the company no longer needs them.
- Physical security: Windows or Linux server security also depends on how secure the physical hardware is. Unauthorized access is always a problem.
Server security hardening: How to secure a server?
Server security hardening ensures maximum security of servers in the company. Hardening refers to the basic and advanced security measures that can be used to reduce the vulnerability of servers. The following points show which server security standards should be followed.
- 1. Solve the main security issues in operating systems
- 2. Remember updating the operating system
- 3. Establish a secure connection
- 4. Use a SSL/TLS certificate
- 5. Connect only via a VPN or private network
- 6. Easily applicable Checklist for server security
The first step to secure a servers always consist of keeping the operating system up to date. A secure server requires that organizations consider the following operating system security issues and solutions during configuration:
- Among the main security issues in operating systems configuration is the default password. This default password should be changed at all costs.
- User permissions should always be as low as possible.
- Accounts that are no longer needed should be deleted or deactivated.
- It makes sense to set up strict guidelines for the assignment of passwords.
- Services or applications that are no longer in use should be deactivated.
Operating system security issues and solutions also include updating the operating system. It is generally a good idea to always install the latest version. The reason for this is that developers have fixed possible vulnerabilities in their updates or patches. This increases server security and prevents access by unauthorized third parties.
A secure connection is as important for remote control server software as it is for email server security. At the same time, cloud server security benefits when organizations choose to establish a secure connection. This can be a special type of authentication, an SSH or a proxy server. They all make it more difficult for hackers to find their way into the enterprise.
Server security certificates are cryptographic protocols used for authentication and encryption. They protect network communications and obfuscate sensitive data sent over the Internet.
For better network server security, it makes sense to use private networks or a VPN for communication. This makes it much more difficult for attackers to intercept content, as only certain IP addresses are granted access.
To limit the main security issues in operating systems and other IT areas, well thought-out server security measures are necessary. The following checklist shows what companies should pay attention to:
- Record all server information such as the identification number and MAC address.
- Review physical security measures and improve them as needed.
- Implement server logging to enable traceability and detect unusual activity.
- Implement regular patching to maintain Windows server security.
- Disable software or services that are no longer needed.
- Hardware should be checked regularly for an improved network server security.
- Implement robust authentication mechanisms to ensure system integrity.
- Implement a back-up plan to protect sensitive corporate data. It is also necessary to test the back-up regularly so that it can be restored in case of an emergency.
Avoid server security issues — by using TeamViewer’s Remote Management software
Using TeamViewer’s remote management software is a great way to improve server security in a company. This is mainly due to the fact that the solution supports remote admin and control of servers. Thus, it is possible to proactively manage the IT infrastructure and keep it healthy, secure and stable. At the same time, the VPN alternative provides the company with all necessary measures from a single platform:
- Remote device monitoring to detect problems early.
- Network device monitoring to keep routers, printers and other devices securely connected.
- Asset management to make the paths of assets transparent.
- Patch management for more security on the servers.
- Software deployment to distribute applications from a central location.
- Endpoint protection to protect against malware, zero-day exploits and other security issues.
- Back-ups to secure sensitive company data.
- Web monitoring for secure transactions on the visited websites.
What is TeamViewer Remote Management?
Enhance your TeamViewer experience, know more about your devices, and proactively keep your IT infrastructure healthy, stable and secure. Boost your IT efficiency and centrally manage, monitor, track, patch, and protect your computers, servers, devices, and software – all from a single platform.