You need website hosting to create a comprehensive digital presence. However, setting up your hosting server is a huge part of this process.
Suppose you purchase a VPS server hosting plan. You need expertise or experts to set up and configure your virtual server to house the website or application. Before you venture into the world of Virtual Private Server hosting, understanding how to run, develop, manage, and maintain the environment is paramount.
If that is what you seek, you are in the right place. Keep reading to find simple tips and steps to set up your VPS hosting server with utmost perfection.
Easy Tips to Start Your Virtual Private Server Hosting Journey
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Access the Server
Once you buy a VPS hosting plan, your hosting provider will offer a communication protocol to connect with your virtual server. One such protocol that allows secure and encrypted communication between you and your server is Secure Shell (SSH).
The hosting provider will provide you with an IP address, username, and password to welcome you to the server. Enter the login credentials and log in to your VPS server for the first time.
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Update the Server
Once you are successfully logged into your server, you should start with a server update. When you update the server, security patches and features will get installed, helping you create a safer environment.
Later, run the necessary commands based on the operating system you choose for your virtual server. Do not panic, as these processes take time. A pro tip: restart the server with the reboot command for a fresh start.
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Create User Account
Remember how the server provided the first login credentials. Instead of using that root account, create a new user with administrator privileges. It enhances security and limits potential damage from accidental commands.
After creating the new user account, run it to verify whether or not everything is running smoothly. Once that is done, terminate the root account.
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Change Default SSH Port
Your SSH port runs on default settings, and its default uses port number 22. Since it is common for all the SSH ports, malicious internet users, bots, and hackers can reach your VPS server with ease.
In order to prevent any risk of a brute-force attack, change the default SSH port without fail. Once that is done, use SSH keys instead of passwords to add a strong layer of security.
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Set Up a Firewall
Most hosting providers offer free VPS firewalls to protect your server from external security threats. A basic firewall helps you control inbound and outbound traffic and monitor, manage, regulate, and restrict it.
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Test and Configure the Server
Now that the basic setup is complete, test your server’s functionality. Make sure that the essential services are running if you have already installed them. Configure your server to suit your project needs by installing software stacks depending on your goals.
Final Thoughts
As you grow more comfortable with the abovementioned process, you will get better at handling complex tasks pertaining to your virtual server. When you buy a VPS hosting package, make little effort in researching, learning, and setting things up correctly. It will go a long way for the better.
Most importantly, don’t be intimidated by the VPS server setup process. It can get as easy as you want it to with prior research and effort. With modern-day tools, server configuration and management have become easy to handle, making website hosting a seamless experience.