Having a server-based network means it’s very important to protect your server from viruses, hackers, and other malicious software. Once your server is compromised, the safety and security of your company’s whole network and all of its data can be jeopardized. IT maintenance and network security is therefore, a very integral part of preserving not only your network, but the entire company as well. Here are some useful tips on how you can protect your network against attacks:
Use your server’s built-in security features. If you have no idea how to configure your server’s security settings, hire an expert to do it for you. It may cost you a little more in the beginning, but it will be worth every penny. The cost of responding to and recovering from a hacked server will cost way much more.
Firewalls are crucial. For small networks, software firewalls are enough, but if your network is expansive, it would be best to run a hardware firewall together with your server. This hardware firewall will control the access to your network’s computers from a single point, which makes it easier to monitor and more secure.
Software patches are likewise very essential to server and network security. Whenever there is a new threat, software patches or updates are issued by antivirus software developers. They close up the security hole that the malicious program has abused or capitalized on. If an old version of a server operating system is what you have been running, your server could be exposed to attacks. It would be best to have the latest version of your server’s software installed.
Unrestricted server permissions and passwords should only be given to a select few. Make sure to use strong passwords and maintain its strict confidentiality.
Physical security is just as important as password security. Protect your servers from the elements and the criminals. Store your server computers on special racks with no windows that have a single locking door to keep them from being damaged by floods or leaks. Lock up the room or closet whenever it’s not in use, and distribute the keys only to those who absolutely need them.
