A firewall is a tool used to control access to specific communication ports on a computer. This can run either as a piece of software on the server such as Windows Defender Firewall or iptables on Linux. Your firewall can also be a separate hardware device that sits between the server and the network device.
For most VPSs you will use a software firewall. As a general rule, you want to allow the least amount of access to a server that you can while maintaining functionality. In many cases, this tight level of control is difficult due to ISPs using shared pools of IPs for customers meaning that you may not have a consistent IP address.
This is less secure, but still significantly more secure than leaving things open to the whole internet. There are also tools such as fail2ban on Linux that can be configured to watch for repeated connections to services from individual IP addresses that may indicate hacker activity and block them automatically. If you have too many passwords to remember, consider using a password manager, such as Dashlane , Sticky Password , LastPass or Password Boss.
Always install new updates to your operating systems. Most updates include security fixes that prevent hackers from accessing and exploiting your data. The same goes for apps. Today's web browsers are increasingly sophisticated, especially in privacy and security. Be sure to review your browser security settings in addition to installing all new updates. For example, you can use your browser to prevent websites from tracking your movements, which increases your online privacy.
Or, use one of these private web browsers. Beware of email messages from unknown parties, and never click on links or open attachments that accompany them. Inbox spam filters have gotten pretty good at catching the most conspicuous spam. But more sophisticated phishing emails that mimic your friends, associates and trusted businesses like your bank have become common, so keep your eyes open for anything that looks or sounds suspicious.
If your business is not already backing up your hard drive, you should begin doing so immediately. Backing up your information is critical in case hackers do succeed in getting through and trashing your system. Always be sure you can rebuild as quickly as possible after suffering any data breach or loss. An external backup hard drive can also provide enough space for these utilities to operate properly.
Many businesses, especially those operating a web server, are "all systems go" all the time. If you're not operating a complex internet-based company, however, switch off your machine overnight or during long stretches when you're not working.
Always being on makes your computer a more visible and available target for hackers; shutting down breaks the connection a hacker may have established with your network and disrupts any possible mischief.
Not everyone needs to take this route, but if you visit sketchy websites, expect to be bombarded with spyware and viruses. While the best way to avoid browser-derived intrusions is to steer clear of unsafe sites, virtualization allows you to run your browser in a virtual environment, like Parallels or VMware Fusion , that sidesteps your operating system to keep it safer.
Routers don't usually come with the highest security settings enabled. When setting up your network, log in to the router, and set a password using a secure, encrypted setup.
This prevents intruders from infiltrating your network and messing with your settings. Passwords are the first line of defense against computer hackers, but a second layer boosts protection. Many sites let you enable two-factor authentication, which boosts security because it requires you to type in a numerical code — sent to your phone or email address — in addition to your password when logging in.
Even if cybercriminals gain access to your network and files, encryption can prevent them from accessing any of that information.
Only shop at encrypted websites; you can spot them immediately by the "https" in the address bar, accompanied by a closed-padlock icon. Key takeaway: Combining security tools and best practices can protect your computers and your network from unauthorized access. To secure your mobile device, you may need to take different security measures than you would to secure a computer.
Follow these tips from Webroot to help you protect your mobile devices from hackers:. When you're not using Bluetooth, turn it off. Keeping your Bluetooth on but dormant opens another back door for computer hackers. Password-free, widely used Wi-Fi networks have no security features. As such, they're prime targets for computer hackers. Install a security app on your phone, just as you should install a firewall, antivirus software and an anti-spyware package on your computer.
Unlock codes like and are easy to remember, but they're also easy to guess. Instead, opt for a randomly generated, six-number passcode. Autocomplete is the feature that guesses what you're typing and completes the word, phrase or other information for you. While convenient, this tool all but hands your email address, mailing address, phone number and other important information to hackers. Switch it off. Your mobile web browser has a browsing history, too.
Clear it often — including cookies and cached files — to give hackers as little information as possible to work with if they do break into your phone. Key takeaway: Mobile devices require additional efforts to protect, including deactivating certain features when they're not in use and installing security applications. Max Freedman. Cybersecurity is critical for businesses of all sizes. These 18 tips can help you secure your computers and mobile devices from malicious actors.
This article was co-authored by Yaffet Meshesha. Yaffet Meshesha is a Computer Specialist and the Founder of Techy, a full-service computer pickup, repair, and delivery service. With over eight years of experience, Yaffet specializes in computer repairs and technical support.
Techy has been featured on TechCrunch and Time. This article has been viewed 31, times. Computer servers store all the valuable data you need to run a system, whether for its business, academic, communication or many other fields. If your system is fairly new, you can protect your server from its most notorious predators—hackers. Log in Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue.
No account yet? Create an account. Edit this Article. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. By using our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Cookie Settings. Learn why people trust wikiHow. Download Article Explore this Article methods. Related Articles. Method 1. Invest in a firewall. After establishing your server, the next immediate thing you need to do is to put up a firewall. Firewalls are programs the filter out the information that goes in and out of your computer.
There are a lot of firewall applications available on the Internet and from local computer stores, but even the less experienced hackers can get past these. Invest in a well-developed and reputable application to ensure the utmost security.
Firewalls are installed just like any other programs and are more than capable of protecting small scale servers. Protect your codes.
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