Why Your VPS Is Still at Risk Even with a Firewall

Have you ever thought about how a VPS can still become compromised with a firewall implemented? I have personally been in the same shoes, watching my VPS being attacked by bots and random login attempts. Firewalls are great, and truly do a lot, but they cannot do it all.

Firewalls Are Just the First Step​

You can think of a firewall as the security guard in front of the front door of your VPS. It does a few things:

• Blocks visitors you do not want to let in
• Makes sure they do not come in through certain IP's or ports
• Stops attacks you already know about

Now, an attacker will find another way if they would like to come in. That is the trouble.

How Hackers Can Come Around Firewalls​

Even the strongest firewalls have weaknesses. Some common ways hackers can get in include:

1. Old programs – Hackers can exploit your VPS apps or OS if they are not updated.

2. Stolen passwords – Firewalls do not deny someone wanting to come into the VPS if they have the correct Login.

3. Malware already on your VPS – Firewalls cannot get rid of a virus inside your VPS if it is already there.

Have you ever seen an unusual event bypass your firewall? That's why there are additional layers of security.

How to Better Protect Your VPS​

Here is what I personally do to keep my VPS more secure:

• Update regularly – Your OS and apps have to be up to date
• Use IDS (intrusion detection systems) – They will monitor unusual activity
• Use strong passwords and 2-factor authentication – Even if they bypass the firewall, they still need a valid username and password to log in.
• Backup and monitoring – If something goes wrong, you can quickly recover.

Think of your VPS like a castle. The firewall is the gate, but you also want guards, cameras, and alarms on the inside.

Do Not Rely on Just One Tool​

I know this from personal experience. Relying only on a firewall gives the user a false sense of security. You can feel like you're being secure, but that doesn't stop hackers from exploiting weaknesses. Layering tools and techniques complicates success for attackers.

Conclusion​

Firewalls are critical, but just one aspect of the security of your VPS. In order to secure your VPS, it is necessary to update software, monitor for abnormal behavior, establish safe methods for logging in, and back up your information.

Relying on only one tool will not secure your VPS. The best way to remain secure is to use layers of protection. Trust me, it is worth the extra effort to keep your VPS secure from attacks.