One of the biggest threats to peoples’ data is a breach of the server. It only takes a small vulnerability for a hacker to get access and then expose potentially millions of people’s sensitive information.
One problem is that often security is seen as a blanket that gets put on the server. The reality is that security needs to have multiple layers to be able to fend off a potential intruder. A robust security system needs to look sort of like an old castle did back in the day. They had a moat and walls within walls to stop intruders before they could get inside.
In this article, we will go over what those layers of security should look like to keep a server safe from attack.
1. Strong endpoint security
Hackers usually look for low-hanging fruit when it comes to gaining access to a server. Endpoint protection is usually the easiest way for somebody to get in. This is why companies like Webroot focus on this layer for security.
An endpoint is a device that people are signing into such as a PC, tablet, smartphone, or another mobile device. By getting into the endpoint, the security of the network is put at risk and can allow a hacker entry into the server.
The security system should be able to block attacks in progress as well as detect and analyze threats before they happen.
2. Be aware of insiders
When people think of spies, they often think of 007. The reality is that there is far more corporate espionage happening than there is state-sponsored spying. This means that there may be an employee who is the weak link when it comes to server security.
There could have been infiltration by a rival that found somebody with security access. With the right kind of payment, this person could essentially hand over the keys. In most circumstances, it is a disgruntled employee who took out revenge by either entering the server themselves or gave access to another party.
Offboarding an employee quickly can usually minimize the risk of this happening.
3. Multifactor authentication
If the company is still using a question and answer portion of the sign-in process, then they are severely behind the times. These types of multifactor authentication are easily hacked and don’t offer an extra layer of security.
Rather, biometrics should be used as a second factor after using the password. It could be a fingerprint on a device or even face recognition. These are not perfect by any means but offer an added layer of security.
4. Always be updating
As code ages, it becomes vulnerable when hackers are using the latest technology to find a way in. updating the software is a way to patch these vulnerabilities so the code stays up to date with the latest software.
Set aside time on a regular basis to do these updates even though they do take the system down. This downtime is annoying to users, but security is worth the inconvenience.