Hosting service providers are required to provide answers to many queries, even completely weird ones, associated with hosting solutions and their features. Many web owners are unaware of what makes every hosting package they come across different from each other. When it comes to VPS hosting in UAE, a good majority of the queries that hosting providers are expected to answer are regarding server security.  

Though cloud hosting Dubai has been flourishing recently, the demand for VPS hosting hasn’t gone down much. Web owners in Dubai tend to prefer Linux hosting servers more than Windows hosting servers. A Linux VPS server thus makes an affordable and reliable alternative to expensive dedicated servers and cloud servers, and something much secure than shared servers. 

Regardless of the kind of servers availed, web owners should understand that the web hosting UAE provider shouldn’t always be completely responsible for securing the server. Both the hosting provider and hosting subscriber must follow industry best practices to keep the server safe from physical or cyber harm. 

That said, here are a few best practices and tips to secure the much demanded Linux VPS. 

SSH protocol for server logins

The VPS server with the hosting provider would be running in a secured environment. Before leasing the server, it’s best to understand the adaptability of the server environment to users’ changing needs. Users should be able to define their business needs and what they expect from the server.

Once the server is chosen, configured, and accessible, both parties can remotely login. When remotely logging into the server, make sure to always use the SSH network protocol for good encryption. 

Never miss security udpates

Cyber criminals are always on the lookout for security vulnerabilities and backdoor access to attractive websites. Developers and security specialists are on the lookout for the same so they can plug security holes and block access to unauthorized intruders. This is why security updates should never be missed. Make sure the security patches are installed on the server whenever they become available. 

Limit using third-party services

Owning a reliable Linux VPS hosting solution allows you to run a number of services including third-party services on a single machine as per your requirements. However, it’s recommended not to overdo this. It’s best to limit using third-party services, and only use those that you actually need. 

Use firewalls to secure networking ports

Setting up a firewall is rule 101 when it comes to securing a hosting server. This is the hosting provider’s responsibility. The web owners can make sure that the server is set up to use only enough networking ports that are necessary for the services that would be performed. 

The remaining ports should be secured by the firewall, and any incoming/outgoing traffic through those ports should be denied. This prevents security breaches while also optimizing the usage of the services. 

Install intrusion detection systems

Installing an intrusion detection system for a Linux hosting server is hassle-free now. There are a number of tools available that serve this purpose including the open source Tripwire Intrusion Detection System, Rootkit Hunter, Bro etc. 

Conclusion

Keeping the server secure is a daily task and an essential part of proper server administration. There are many more things hosting providers and hosting subscribers can do to secure the server, and the connection with the server. Leading hosts offering web hosting in Dubai often provides a set of guidelines for the subscriber to practice, and can disclose their own security standards if enquired.