Hey

I'm considering to get a dedicated server to host some of my sites and a few of my friends'.

Couple of questions:

1) I'm planning to go w/ either fastservers.net or eservers.biz (unmangaed). How can I prevent hacking and DoS attacks?

2) If the server slows down dramatically, how can I find which site is causing all the load (such as a big forum).

3) I've been using Cpanel and WHM for a few months. Are there any other skills I will need to manage a dedicated server?

Thanks :)

Hi Noodles,

Hacking can be prevented just by making good use of the software firewalls and making sure all patches are applied at regular intervals. I am assuming you are using linux? Unfortunately the only way to avoid DoS attacks is to steer clear of people you may think will attack you. If you plan to run IRC services then be careful, as this is on of the main attractions for sad people that like to DoS attack.

Can't answer part 2, not techincal enough, will answer later on once I've asked my colleague :-)

If you are using linux then there are a few things you will need to master if you are not going to use CPanel, i.e. ssh and commands from the prompt. It's pretty simple, and loads of documentation on it. The tech support team should be able to help you out, if they don;t then you should consider looking at a different host!

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Hope this helps

Spencer

1) I'm planning to go w/ either fastservers.net or eservers.biz (unmangaed). How can I prevent hacking and DoS attacks? Both of those providers will assist you, based on their histories. Preventing hacking is largely a matter of maintaining tight security including all patches on timely basis (not just operating system, but various scripts), disallowance of certain scripts (such as the original Matt Wright formmail), and tight reign on access. Not allowing shell access also reduces your exposure. As to DOS attacks, you can't truly prevent them. However, you can protect against them by the types of clients you host. IRC tends to attract the most problems. Adult hosting also attracts a lot of problems. You might, in addition, want to avoid extremely controversial sites. Last, monitor your server constantly, being on the lookout for unusual activity. Often the first tip off is a sudden rise in Load.
2) If the server slows down dramatically, how can I find which site is causing all the load (such as a big forum). Quick method if you are using WHM is to check the CPU usage stats. For more thoroughness, examine your logs. 3) I've been using Cpanel and WHM for a few months. Are there any other skills I will need to manage a dedicated server? This does not equip you to manage server performance or security effectively. For that you need to develop a relationship with someone you can trust and learn from (could well be your provider or could be someone else). In addition, your clients will experience problems you just will not be able to resolve with limited experience.

Thanks for the help guys!:)