Home Server Security

TL;DR

This guide helps you build a secure home server (your “Darkspace”) for storing files, running services, and learning about cyber security. It focuses on practical steps to protect your data from unwanted access.

1. Choose Your Hardware

1. Old Computer: A great starting point! Make sure it has enough RAM (8GB+ recommended) and storage space.
2. Raspberry Pi: Low power, affordable, but less powerful. Good for learning and basic services.
3. NAS Device: Pre-built solution with some security features, but can be limited in customization.

Regardless of your choice, ensure it has a network connection (Ethernet is more secure than Wi-Fi).

2. Install an Operating System

1. Linux: Recommended for security and flexibility. Popular choices include Ubuntu Server, Debian, or Fedora Server.
• Download the ISO image from the official website.
• Create a bootable USB drive using Rufus (Windows), Etcher (cross-platform), or similar tool.
• Boot your computer from the USB drive and follow the installation instructions.
2. Windows Server: More familiar for some, but requires more maintenance and is generally less secure by default.

3. Initial System Hardening

1. Update Your System: Immediately after installation, update all packages.

   sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

   (Ubuntu/Debian) or

   sudo dnf update

   (Fedora).

2. Create a Non-Root User: Avoid logging in as root directly. Create a user with limited privileges.

   sudo adduser yourusername

3. Configure SSH: Secure remote access.
   • Disable password authentication and use SSH keys instead.
   • Change the default SSH port (22) to something less common. Edit

     /etc/ssh/sshd_config

     .

   • Restart the SSH service:

     sudo systemctl restart sshd

     .

4. Firewall: Enable a firewall (UFW is easy to use on Ubuntu).

   sudo ufw enable

   sudo ufw default deny incoming

   sudo ufw allow ssh

4. Data Storage and Backups

1. Partitioning: Separate your operating system partition from your data partition.
2. Encryption: Encrypt your data partition to protect it if the drive is stolen.
   • LUKS (Linux Unified Key Setup) is a common encryption method.
3. Backups: Regularly back up your data to an external drive or cloud storage.
   • Consider using tools like rsync, BorgBackup, or Duplicati.

5. Service Security

1. Run Services as Non-Privileged Users: Avoid running services with root privileges.
2. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update all installed software to patch security vulnerabilities.
3. Limit Network Access: Only allow access to services from trusted networks or IP addresses.
   • Configure your firewall accordingly.
4. Use HTTPS/TLS: Encrypt communication between your server and clients (e.g., using Let’s Encrypt for SSL certificates).

6. Monitoring and Logging

1. Log Analysis: Regularly review system logs to identify suspicious activity.
   • Tools like fail2ban can automatically block attackers based on log patterns.
2. Intrusion Detection System (IDS): Consider using an IDS like Snort or Suricata to detect malicious traffic.
3. Resource Monitoring: Monitor CPU usage, memory usage, and disk space to identify potential problems.

7. Cyber Security Best Practices

• Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts. Consider a password manager.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA wherever possible.
• Regular Audits: Periodically review your security configuration and identify potential weaknesses.
• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest cyber security threats and vulnerabilities.