server management services

Server Configuration and Optimization:

Our expert technicians specialize in server configuration and optimization, customizing server settings to suit your specific requirements. By fine-tuning your servers, we enhance performance, minimize downtime, and maximize efficiency.

Initial Server Setup & Security Hardening

Control Panel Setup:

The initial step in securing your server is to establish a robust control panel setup. This involves selecting a reputable control panel software and configuring it with strong authentication mechanisms, such as complex passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA). Additionally, it is crucial to keep the control panel software up to date by installing the latest security patches and updates.

Quick Security Audit:

Performing a thorough security audit is essential to identify existing vulnerabilities and ensure that the server meets industry standards. This process involves reviewing system configurations, access controls, and user permissions. By conducting regular security audits, you can promptly address any weaknesses and enhance overall server security.

Compiler and Fetch Utility Access:

To mitigate potential risks, limit access to compiler and fetch utilities to the root user only. This prevents unauthorized users from executing arbitrary code or fetching potentially malicious software from external sources.

Folder/Directory Permissions Setup:

Implement proper folder and directory permissions to prevent directory traversal attacks by unprivileged users. Restricting access to sensitive directories ensures that only authorized individuals can view, modify, or execute critical files, reducing the risk of unauthorized data manipulation or disclosure.

Host.conf and Sysctl Security Hardening:

Strengthen server security by hardening the host.conf and sysctl configurations. These settings help protect against network-based attacks, such as IP spoofing and DNS hijacking. Configure these files to enforce secure network communication protocols, restrict unnecessary network services, and enable protective measures like IP source address validation.

Noexec and Nosuid Temporary Directories:

To minimize the risk of malicious code execution, set the noexec and nosuid flags on temporary directories. This prevents the execution of binaries and scripts within these directories, reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access and system compromise.

RkHunter Installation:

RkHunter (Rootkit Hunter) is a valuable tool for detecting rootkits and other malicious software on a server. By installing and regularly updating RkHunter, you can proactively monitor the system for potential security breaches and promptly take appropriate action to mitigate any detected threats.

Installation and Configuration of APF Firewall:

Implementing a robust firewall, such as the Advanced Policy Firewall (APF), is vital for securing your server. Install and configure the firewall to restrict incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined rules and policies, effectively blocking malicious attempts and unauthorized access.

Kernel Updates:

Regularly updating the server’s kernel is crucial to address known vulnerabilities and ensure compatibility with the latest security patches. Stay up to date with the latest kernel releases and promptly apply updates to maintain a secure server environment.

Hardening of SSH Service:

Secure Shell (SSH) is a commonly used protocol for remote server administration. To strengthen SSH security, enforce key-based authentication, disable root login, and implement strong password policies. Additionally, consider configuring SSH to use non-standard ports to minimize exposure to automated brute-force attacks.

TCP/IP Hardening:

Implement TCP/IP hardening techniques to protect against network-based attacks. This involves disabling unnecessary services, closing unused ports, enabling appropriate firewall rules, and implementing network intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor and respond to potential threats.

Securing PHP Installation:

Upon request, additional security measures can be implemented to secure your PHP installation. This may include applying secure PHP configurations, disabling dangerous functions, and enabling PHP opcode caching to improve performance and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

BFD (Brute Force Detection) System Installation:

Install a Brute Force Detection (BFD) system to detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts. BFD monitors log files for repeated login failures and triggers alerts or automated actions, such as IP blocking, to defend against brute-force attacks.

Server and Control Panel Software Updates:

Regularly updating server and control panel software is crucial to address security vulnerabilities and ensure optimal performance. Stay informed about the latest software releases and apply updates promptly to benefit from the latest security enhancements and bug fixes.

Disabling Unused Services:

To minimize potential attack vectors, disable any unnecessary services that are not essential for your server’s operation. This reduces the overall system exposure and optimizes server performance by conserving system resources.

Mod Security Installation and Configuration:

Total Server Solutions technicians can install and configure Mod Security, a web application firewall, with a mildly aggressive rule set. This enhances server security by inspecting incoming web traffic, detecting and preventing a wide range of common web application attacks.

System Integrity Monitoring:

Continuously monitor the integrity of your server system by implementing a system integrity monitoring tool. This helps identify unauthorized changes to critical files, system binaries, and configurations, allowing you to take immediate action against potential compromises.

RPM Package Audit:

Perform regular package audits of your RPM system to ensure that all software packages are up to date and free from known vulnerabilities. Monitor and verify the integrity of installed packages to maintain a secure and stable server environment.

Locking Down Common Services:

Conduct a thorough assessment of common services running on your server, such as FTP, SMTP, and DNS, and apply necessary security hardening measures. Disable unused services, enforce secure configurations, and apply access controls to reduce the attack surface and enhance server security.

Additional Requested Installations:

Upon request, our team can install and configure additional security tools like Mod Evasive, which helps protect against DDoS attacks, and Zend Optimizer, which improves PHP performance. These installations further enhance server security and optimize the performance of your server applications.