When you’re running a Virtual Private Server, you’re not just spinning up compute – you’re stepping into the role of gatekeeper. A VPS gives you raw power and full control, but with that control comes risk. And in the world of servers, risk is everywhere.
Whether you’re hosting a production web app, managing a critical database, or staging your next release, security is the foundation. One misconfigured setting, one outdated package, one forgotten port… and suddenly your server is a sitting duck for automated bots, brute-force scripts, or worse.
The reality? VPSs are constantly being scanned for weaknesses. You won’t get a warning. There won’t be a knock at the door. If your server is online, it’s being watched.
This VPS security checklist is your blueprint. A focused, technical guide to help you harden your VPS like a pro, before something (or someone) breaks in.
VPS Security Checklist: What You Should Be Doing Right Now
1. Keep Your Operating System Up to Date
Regular patching is one of the most critical ways to close known security holes. Make sure updates are applied frequently and ideally automated.
2. Avoid Using the Root Account
Using the root user for daily operations is risky. Create a separate user with administrative privileges and keep root access restricted.
3. Use SSH Keys Instead of Passwords
Replace password-based logins with SSH keys for stronger, more secure access control. SSH keys are virtually immune to brute-force attacks and should be your default.
4. Change the Default SSH Port
By switching away from the default port used by SSH, you reduce the noise from bots and automated attacks constantly scanning standard ports
5. Enable a Firewall
A firewall adds an essential layer of protection by only allowing specific traffic to reach your VPS. It should be configured to deny all by default and allow only necessary ports.
6. Protect Against Brute-Force Attacks
Use software tools that monitor login attempts and automatically block suspicious behavior. This helps shut down unauthorized access attempts before they escalate.
7. Monitor for Intrusions
Implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) that alert you to unexpected changes in your server’s files, users, or network traffic. Early warning is key.
8. Disable Unused Services
Every open service or port is a potential entry point. Review your server regularly and shut down anything you’re not actively using.
9. Lock Down SSH Access
Fine-tune your SSH configuration to only allow specific users, limit login attempts, and disable root login entirely. This dramatically reduces the attack surface.
10. Automate Security Updates
Automation helps ensure critical patches are installed quickly—even if you’re not logged in. This is particularly helpful for zero-day vulnerabilities.
11. Enable AppArmor or SELinux
These tools enforce access policies that can prevent compromised software from accessing parts of your system it shouldn’t. They act as an internal firewall at the application level.
12. Run Regular Security Audits
Use server auditing tools that scan your VPS for vulnerabilities, misconfigurations, and general security hygiene. Make it a monthly habit.
13. Watch Your Logs
Your server logs are a goldmine of security information. Use log monitoring tools that alert you to strange activity in real time.
14. Back Up Your Data Regularly
If something goes wrong, a recent backup can save you hours (or days) of recovery time. Backups should be encrypted and stored offsite, not just on the VPS itself.
15. Harden Containers and Isolated Services
If you’re running services inside containers like Docker, take the time to lock down container permissions, isolate workloads, and avoid running containers as root.
Security is not a one-time task. Rather, it’s a continual process of vigilance, review, and improvement. This checklist will help ensure your VPS is protected from common threats, and serves as a strong foundation for long-term operational security.
If you want to take a step back and review the basics, check out our guide: How to Secure a VPS for a beginner-friendly approach.
Start with a VPS that prioritizes security from day one.
