Web Server & Remote Worker Security

TL;DR

This guide covers essential steps to secure your web server and protect access when staff work remotely. It focuses on strong passwords, software updates, firewalls, VPNs, multi-factor authentication (MFA), regular backups, and monitoring for suspicious activity.

Securing Your Web Server

1. Keep Software Updated: This is the most important step. Updates patch security holes.
   • Operating System: Regularly update your server’s OS (e.g., Linux, Windows Server).
   • Web Server Software: Update Apache, Nginx, IIS, or whatever you use.
   • Databases: Keep MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB etc. up to date.
   • Content Management Systems (CMS): If using WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, update the core and all plugins/themes.
2. Strong Passwords & User Accounts:
   • Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts. A password manager is highly recommended.
   • Disable default accounts or change their passwords immediately.
   • Limit user privileges – only give people the access they need.
   • Regularly review and audit user accounts.
3. Firewall Configuration: A firewall blocks unwanted traffic.
   • Enable a firewall (e.g., ufw on Linux, Windows Firewall).
   • Only allow necessary ports and services through the firewall. For example, port 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS). Block everything else by default.

     sudo ufw allow 80/tcp

4. HTTPS Encryption: Use SSL/TLS to encrypt data in transit.
   • Obtain an SSL certificate (Let’s Encrypt is a free option).
   • Configure your web server to use HTTPS.
   • Redirect HTTP traffic to HTTPS automatically.
5. Regular Backups: If something goes wrong, you need backups.
   • Automate regular backups of your website files and database.
   • Store backups offsite (e.g., cloud storage) – don’t keep them on the same server.
   • Test your backups regularly to ensure they can be restored.

Securing Remote Worker Access

1. Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN creates a secure connection.
   • Require remote workers to use a VPN when accessing company resources.
   • Choose a reputable VPN provider with strong encryption and privacy policies.
2. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adds an extra layer of security.
   • Enable MFA on all critical accounts, including email, VPN, web server access, and any cloud services.
   • Use a strong MFA method like authenticator apps (Google Authenticator, Authy) or hardware tokens. SMS-based MFA is less secure.
3. Endpoint Security: Protect the worker’s device.
   • Require anti-virus/anti-malware software on all remote devices.
   • Ensure operating systems and applications are up to date.
   • Implement disk encryption (e.g., BitLocker for Windows, FileVault for macOS).
4. Remote Access Policies: Clear rules for workers.
   • Develop a clear remote access policy outlining security requirements.
   • Train remote workers on security best practices (phishing awareness, password management, data protection).
5. Monitoring & Logging: Watch for suspicious activity.
   • Monitor server logs for unusual login attempts or errors.
   • Use intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) to detect and block malicious traffic.
   • Regularly review security logs for potential threats.