Tag: vps security

Firewall vs WAF: Which One Does Your Website Need?

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When it comes to securing your website or VPS, two terms often come up: Firewall and WAF (Web Application Firewall). While they sound similar, they serve different purposes. Choosing the right one—or knowing when to use both—is crucial for protecting your applications and data from cyber threats.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences, benefits, and best use cases for Firewalls and WAFs.

✅ What is a Firewall?

A firewall is a network security system that filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on predefined rules. It operates at the network and transport layers (Layer 3 and Layer 4 of the OSI model).

What it does:

  • Blocks unauthorized access to your VPS or network
  • Controls which IP addresses, ports, and protocols can communicate
  • Prevents brute-force attacks and scans

Types of Firewalls:

  • Host-based (e.g., UFW, Firewalld)
  • Network-based (hardware or cloud)

Example: Blocking all ports except 80 (HTTP), 443 (HTTPS), and SSH.

✅ What is a WAF (Web Application Firewall)?

A Web Application Firewall protects web applications by filtering HTTP/S traffic. It operates at the application layer(Layer 7 of the OSI model) and is designed to prevent attacks like:

  • SQL Injection
  • Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
  • File Inclusion Attacks
  • OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities

How it works:

  • Analyzes HTTP requests before they reach your application
  • Blocks malicious patterns in URL, headers, or payload
  • Can be deployed as a reverse proxy (e.g., Cloudflare, AWS WAF)

✅ Firewall vs WAF: Key Differences

FeatureFirewallWAF
LayerNetwork (Layer 3/4)Application (Layer 7)
Protection FocusIPs, Ports, ProtocolsHTTP/S requests and app vulnerabilities
BlocksUnauthorized access, brute forceSQL Injection, XSS, Web Exploits
DeploymentServer or Network LevelApplication or CDN Level

✅ Do You Need Both?

Yes, in most cases.

  • Firewall ensures your VPS isn’t exposed to unnecessary ports or traffic.
  • WAF adds another layer by inspecting HTTP/S traffic for malicious patterns.

Think of it like this:

  • Firewall = Lock on your front door
  • WAF = Security guard checking IDs at the entrance

✅ Best Practices for VPS Security

  • Enable a firewall on your VPS using UFW or Firewalld.
  • Install Fail2Ban to protect against brute-force attempts.
  • Use a WAF service like Cloudflare for application-layer protection.
  • Keep your apps and OS updated to avoid zero-day vulnerabilities.
  • Take regular backups for quick recovery.

✅ Hosteons VPS Security Advantage

At Hosteons, all VPS plans are designed for security:

  • Full root access to configure UFW, CSF, or any firewall
  • 10Gbps network ports for fast, secure connectivity
  • Compatible with Cloudflare WAF and other security tools

👉 Explore plans:

Final Thoughts

A firewall and a WAF are not competitors—they complement each other. Use both to achieve comprehensive protectionfor your VPS and websites.

How to Protect Your VPS Against Ransomware Attacks

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Ransomware attacks have become one of the most dangerous cybersecurity threats in recent years. These attacks encrypt your data and demand a ransom for its release, causing downtime, financial losses, and sometimes permanent data loss.

If you’re running a VPS, you are a target—but with the right security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk. In this guide, we’ll show you how to protect your VPS from ransomware attacks.

✅ 

What is Ransomware and Why Target VPS?

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts your files or system, rendering them unusable until a ransom is paid. VPS servers are attractive targets because:

  • They often host business-critical applications
  • Many users fail to apply security updates
  • Weak configurations leave them exposed to attacks

Top Ways to Secure Your VPS from Ransomware

✅ 

1. Keep Your System Updated

Unpatched systems are the most common entry point for attackers.

Update your VPS regularly:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y   # For Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf update -y                      # For CentOS/AlmaLinux

✅ 

2. Use Strong SSH Security

  • Disable root login
  • Use SSH keys instead of passwords
  • Change the default SSH port

Example:

PermitRootLogin no
PasswordAuthentication no
Port 2222

Restart SSH:

systemctl restart ssh

✅ 

3. Enable a Firewall

Limit access to essential ports only.

For Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo ufw allow 2222/tcp
sudo ufw allow 80/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
sudo ufw enable

✅ 

4. Install Fail2Ban

Block brute-force attempts:

sudo apt install fail2ban -y    # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf install fail2ban -y    # CentOS/AlmaLinux

✅ 

5. Use Real-Time Malware Protection

Install tools like ClamAV or Maldet to detect malicious files:

sudo apt install clamav -y

✅ 

6. Secure Web Applications

  • Keep CMS platforms like WordPress up to date
  • Use strong admin passwords
  • Install security plugins and WAF (Web Application Firewall)

✅ 

7. Enable Regular Backups

Backups are your best defense against ransomware. Even if your server is compromised, you can restore your data without paying a ransom.

Options:

  • Use Hosteons’ VPS backup service
  • Use remote backup tools like rclone or rsync

✅ 

8. Implement Principle of Least Privilege

Only give necessary access to users and apps. Avoid running unnecessary services.

✅ 

9. Monitor Your VPS

Set up monitoring tools like:

  • fail2ban logs
  • UFW logs
  • Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS) like OSSEC

Hosteons VPS Security Features

All Hosteons VPS plans are built for security and performance:

  • KVM Virtualization for complete isolation
  • 10Gbps Ports for high-speed secure connections
  • Full Root Access to configure your own security stack
  • IPv6 Ready
  • Affordable Plans starting at $2.99/month

👉 Order a VPS today:

Final Thoughts

Ransomware is a growing threat, but with regular updates, strong security practices, and backups, your VPS can stay protected. Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure your VPS now.

What Is KVM Virtualization and Why It’s the Industry Standard

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When it comes to VPS hosting, virtualization technology plays a critical role in determining performance, security, and flexibility. At Hosteons, we use KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) for all our VPS plans, ensuring a reliable and secure experience for our customers.

But what exactly is KVM virtualization, and why is it considered the industry standard? Let’s dive in.

✅ What Is KVM Virtualization?

KVM stands for Kernel-based Virtual Machine. It’s an open-source virtualization technology built into the Linux kernel. This means every VPS created with KVM runs as an isolated virtual machine with its own dedicated resources.

Unlike container-based solutions (like OpenVZ), KVM provides true hardware virtualization, giving you complete control over your virtual server environment.

✅ Key Features of KVM Virtualization

  • Full Virtualization: Each VPS behaves like an independent server with its own kernel.
  • Dedicated Resources: Guaranteed CPU, RAM, and storage—no resource overselling.
  • Wide OS Compatibility: Install Linux, BSD, or even Windows as your guest OS.
  • Better Security: Isolation at the kernel level means improved security and stability.
  • Performance: Near bare-metal speed for demanding workloads.

✅ Why KVM Is the Industry Standard

  1. Open Source & ReliableKVM is maintained by the Linux community and used by major cloud providers worldwide.
  2. Hardware-Level VirtualizationKVM uses Intel VT or AMD-V to ensure efficient virtualization at the hardware level.
  3. FlexibilityUnlike container-based virtualization, KVM lets you run almost any OS.
  4. ScalabilityPerfect for businesses that need to scale from small VPS plans to high-performance workloads.

✅ KVM vs. OpenVZ and Other Virtualization Types

FeatureKVMOpenVZ (Containers)
IsolationFull VM isolationShared kernel
OS FlexibilityAny OSLinux only
SecurityHighMedium
Custom KernelYesNo

KVM clearly offers better isolation, flexibility, and control compared to container-based solutions.

✅ Why Hosteons Chooses KVM

At Hosteons, we provide KVM-based VPS hosting for all our plans because it aligns with our goals of:

  • Performance: Guaranteed resources for every customer.
  • Security: Each VPS runs in an isolated environment.
  • Freedom: Full root access and the ability to install custom kernels or modules.
  • Future-Readiness: Support for modern technologies like IPv6 and advanced networking.

✅ Hosteons VPS Features with KVM

  • 10Gbps Ports for ultra-fast connectivity
  • Multiple Global Locations (US & EU)
  • Instant Setup after payment
  • IPv6 Ready
  • Affordable Plans starting at $2.99/month

👉 Explore our VPS plans here:

Budget KVM VPS

Ryzen VPS Plans

Final Thoughts

KVM isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of reliable VPS hosting. By choosing KVM virtualization, Hosteons ensures our customers enjoy a secure, high-performance, and flexible hosting environment.

🖥️ Ready to experience KVM-powered hosting?

Order Your VPS Now

How to Secure a VPS Right After Deployment – Checklist for 2025

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Deploying a VPS is the first step to building your online presence, hosting applications, or running business-critical services. But if you don’t secure it immediately after deployment, your server could become an easy target for hackers and automated bots.

Here’s a step-by-step security checklist for 2025 to harden your VPS from the start.

✅ 

1. Update Your System

Outdated packages and kernels are the biggest vulnerabilities.

Run these commands right after login:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y   # For Ubuntu/Debian
sudo dnf update -y                      # For CentOS/AlmaLinux

✅ 

2. Create a New User and Disable Root Login

Never use the root account for day-to-day operations.

adduser youruser
usermod -aG sudo youruser

Edit the SSH configuration:

sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Change:

PermitRootLogin no

Restart SSH:

systemctl restart ssh

✅ 

3. Set Up SSH Key Authentication

Passwords can be brute-forced. Use SSH keys instead.

Generate keys on your local machine:

ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096

Copy your public key to the VPS:

ssh-copy-id youruser@server_ip

Disable password login in /etc/ssh/sshd_config:

PasswordAuthentication no

Restart SSH again.

✅ 

4. Change the Default SSH Port

Bots scan port 22 for vulnerabilities. Change it to a non-standard port (e.g., 2222):

sudo nano /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Set:

Port 2222

Restart SSH:

systemctl restart ssh

✅ 

5. Enable a Firewall

Use UFW for Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo ufw allow 2222/tcp
sudo ufw allow 80/tcp
sudo ufw allow 443/tcp
sudo ufw enable

For CentOS/AlmaLinux (Firewalld):

sudo firewall-cmd --add-service=ssh --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --add-service=http --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --add-service=https --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --reload

✅ 

6. Install Fail2Ban

Protect against brute-force attacks:

sudo apt install fail2ban -y    # Debian/Ubuntu
sudo dnf install fail2ban -y    # CentOS/AlmaLinux

Enable and start Fail2Ban:

sudo systemctl enable fail2ban
sudo systemctl start fail2ban

✅ 

7. Disable Unnecessary Services

Check running services:

systemctl list-unit-files --type=service --state=enabled

Disable what you don’t need:

sudo systemctl disable service_name

✅ 

8. Enable Automatic Security Updates

On Ubuntu/Debian:

sudo apt install unattended-upgrades -y

On CentOS/AlmaLinux:

sudo dnf install dnf-automatic -y
sudo systemctl enable --now dnf-automatic.timer

✅ 

9. Install a Malware Scanner

Use ClamAV for basic malware scanning:

sudo apt install clamav -y

✅ 

10. Backup Regularly

Security is not complete without backups. Use tools like:

  • rsync
  • rclone
  • Cloud backups from your Hosteons VPS panel

Pro Tip:

Hosteons offers an Initial VPS Setup Script that secures your server instantly with best practices:

👉 GitHub Script

👉 Full Guide

Final Thoughts

Securing your VPS should never be an afterthought. With these 10 steps, you can minimize vulnerabilities and keep your server safe from evolving cyber threats in 2025.

🛡️ Ready to get started?

Order a reliable VPS now: Hosteons VPS Plans

Top 5 Tips to Harden Your Linux VPS Against Attacks in 2025

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In 2025, cyberattacks are more sophisticated than ever. Whether you’re hosting a personal project or critical business application, securing your Linux VPS is no longer optional—it’s essential. Thankfully, with just a few steps, you can drastically reduce your risk and keep your VPS locked down against the most common threats.

At Hosteons, we provide high-performance KVM VPS with root access, but security is a shared responsibility. Here’s how you can harden your VPS in minutes:

1. Use SSH Keys Instead of Passwords

Disable password login and use SSH key authentication for more secure, automated, and brute-force-resistant logins.

Steps:

  • Generate a key pair using ssh-keygen
  • Upload your public key to your VPS: ~/.ssh/authorized_keys
  • Disable password auth in /etc/ssh/sshd_config

👉 Read: Why You Should Use SSH Keys Instead of Passwords

2. Set Up a Firewall (UFW/iptables)

Block unnecessary ports to reduce your attack surface. Only open what’s required (e.g., 22 for SSH, 80/443 for web).

Example with UFW:

sudo ufw default deny incoming
sudo ufw allow 22
sudo ufw allow 80
sudo ufw allow 443
sudo ufw enable

3. Install and Configure Fail2Ban

Prevent brute-force attacks by banning IPs with too many failed login attempts.

Install Fail2Ban:

sudo apt install fail2ban

Create a jail for SSH and monitor logs like /var/log/auth.log or /var/log/secure.

👉 Full Fail2Ban Guide

4. Keep the System and Software Updated

Always run the latest security patches. Use tools like unattended-upgrades for automated updates.

Commands:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo yum update

Outdated software is one of the most exploited vulnerabilities.

5. Monitor Login Attempts and File Changes

Install tools to track unauthorized access and suspicious activity.

  • Use auditd to track system events
  • Use logwatch or logcheck to scan logs for anomalies
  • Monitor /var/log/auth.log for failed logins

👉 Read: How to Monitor Login Attempts and File Changes on Your VPS

Bonus: Disable Root Login

Prevent direct root access by using a non-root sudo user instead.

In /etc/ssh/sshd_config:

PermitRootLogin no

Final Thoughts

Hardened servers are happy servers! With these 5 simple steps, you’ll block the majority of attacks targeting Linux VPS.

At Hosteons, we give you the control, performance, and reliability — now it’s your turn to secure it.

🔐 Ready to deploy a secure VPS?

👉 Explore Our KVM VPS

👉 Premium Ryzen VPS

🔐 Easily Change Your Windows RDP Port with a One-Click Script

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One-Click Windows RDP Port Changer Script 🖥️

Managing a Windows VPS often requires securing RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) access. One of the most effective and simplest ways to harden your Windows Server is to change the default RDP port (3389). But doing it manually via the registry and firewall can be tedious and risky.

That’s why we at Hosteons created an open-source, one-click PowerShell script that simplifies the process.

👉 GitHub Repo: Windows RDP Port Changer Script

✅ Features

  • Changes RDP Port via Windows Registry
  • Updates Windows Firewall to allow the new port
  • Enables RDP if it’s currently disabled
  • Fully open-source and free under the MIT License
  • Supports Windows Server 2012/2016/2019/2022

📦 How to Use

  1. Login to your Windows VPS as Administrator.
  2. Open PowerShell.
  3. Run the script directly:
iwr -useb https://raw.githubusercontent.com/hosteons/Windows-RDP-Port-Changer-Script/main/rdp_port_changer.ps1 | iex
  1. Enter your desired RDP port when prompted.

⚠️ Important: Make sure your port is not blocked by external firewalls (such as cloud provider rules). Also, ensure you have console/VNC access in case the new port is misconfigured.

🤖 Automation Friendly

This script can be integrated into automation flows for server provisioning or batch management. Perfect for sysadmins managing multiple Windows VPS instances.

🔐 Why Change Your RDP Port?

  • Reduces brute-force attacks from bots scanning port 3389
  • Hides your RDP service from default port scanners
  • Adds an extra layer of obscurity in your defense

👨‍💻 Contribute or Report Issues

This is an open-source script. Feel free to fork, improve, or report issues on GitHub:

👉 https://github.com/hosteons/Windows-RDP-Port-Changer-Script

📣 About Hosteons

Hosteons is a VPS and dedicated server provider offering services in multiple global locations. We’re committed to open-source and providing useful automation tools for system administrators and developers.

🔐 Secure Your VPS Like a Pro: 6 Simple Firewall Rules That Block 90% of Attacks

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Running a VPS gives you full control — but it also comes with responsibility. Whether you’re hosting with a budget VPS or a high-performance Ryzen VDS from Hosteons, security should always be a top priority.

Automated bots and malicious actors are constantly scanning servers looking for open doors. The good news? With just a few simple firewall rules, you can block 90% or more of common attacks — no advanced security knowledge needed.

🚧 Step 1: Deny All by Default

Your firewall should start from a “zero trust” position. Block all incoming traffic unless explicitly allowed.

iptables -P INPUT DROP
iptables -P FORWARD DROP
iptables -P OUTPUT ACCEPT

This is the safest starting point for VPS security.

✅ Step 2: Open Only the Ports You Need

For most users, these are the essential services:

iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 22 -j ACCEPT   # SSH
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 80 -j ACCEPT   # HTTP
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 443 -j ACCEPT  # HTTPS

If you’re using a custom SSH port, be sure to update that here.

🛡️ Step 3: Rate-Limit SSH to Stop Brute-Force Attacks

SSH is the most frequently targeted service. Add a rate-limiting rule to block repeated login attempts:

iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 22 -m state --state NEW -m recent --set
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 22 -m state --state NEW -m recent --update --seconds 60 --hitcount 3 -j DROP

This prevents bots from guessing passwords through brute force.

🧼 Step 4: Drop Invalid or Malicious Packets

Invalid packets are often used in scanning or attack attempts. Drop them:

iptables -A INPUT -m state --state INVALID -j DROP

This helps prevent certain types of kernel-level exploits and misbehavior.

🔁 Step 5: Allow Loopback and Established Connections

Let your server communicate with itself and continue existing sessions:

iptables -A INPUT -i lo -j ACCEPT
iptables -A INPUT -m state --state ESTABLISHED,RELATED -j ACCEPT

Without these, things like internal services and return traffic might break.

👀 Step 6: (Optional) Block Ping (ICMP)

Ping isn’t harmful by itself, but attackers use it to detect live servers. You can hide yours:

iptables -A INPUT -p icmp --icmp-type echo-request -j DROP

Note: avoid this if you use ping-based monitoring tools.

💡 Bonus: Use CSF for Easier Firewall Management

Not comfortable with command-line tools? Hosteons VPS plans fully support CSF (ConfigServer Security & Firewall)— a beginner-friendly, feature-rich firewall system with:

  • Easy interface via DirectAdmin
  • Built-in brute-force detection
  • Country-level blocking
  • Port scan detection
  • Daily logs and alerts

Perfect for users who want simplicity without sacrificing power.

🔄 Don’t Forget to Save Your Rules

After setting your rules, make sure they persist after a reboot.

On Ubuntu/Debian:

iptables-save > /etc/iptables/rules.v4

On CentOS/RHEL:

Use iptables-save along with persistent packages, or configure firewalld.

🔐 VPS Security Starts with You

Whether you’re running a personal blog, game server, or production site on a VPS from Hosteons, implementing basic firewall rules should be your first line of defense.

These 6 rules are easy to set up and highly effective. For extra protection, consider:

  • Enabling fail2ban
  • Using SSH keys instead of passwords
  • Running regular security updates

At Hosteons, we offer high-performance, SSD-powered KVM VPS and Ryzen VDS backed by robust network security and full root access — so you’re always in control.

🔒 Ready to launch your secure VPS?

👉 Explore our VPS plans now