Securing Ubuntu for Production
Tags: ubuntu, systemprogramming, security
Published: 2023-09-12 08:10:13

---
title: Securing Ubuntu for Production
published: true
description: Securing an Ubuntu server for production use is essential to protect your data and ensure the server's stability. Here is a checklist.
tags: ubuntu, systemprogramming, security
cover_image: https://github-production-user-asset-6210df.s3.amazonaws.com/51070104/267247155-cf320efc-4b60-4b6c-afdd-b6b28a718e6c.png
canonical_url: https://www.docs.deploypro.dev/blog/secure-ubuntu-for-production
---
Hello Coders! 

This article presents a short checklist on how to secure Ubuntu in production, protect the sensitive data and ensure the server's stability. *Thanks for reading!*

> 👉 Content provided by [DeployPRO](https://deploypro.dev/), a product that simplifies the deployment process - `Works with AWS, Azure and DO` 

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## **Update and Patch Software**

- Regularly update the operating system and software packages using `apt` or `apt-get` to apply security patches.
- Set up automatic security updates to keep your system up to date.

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## **Firewall Configuration**

- Enable the Uncomplicated Firewall (UFW) and configure it to allow only necessary incoming and outgoing traffic.
- Restrict SSH access to specific IP addresses or use key-based authentication for SSH.

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## **SSH Security**

- Disable SSH root login (`PermitRootLogin no` in `/etc/ssh/sshd_config`).
- Use strong SSH key pairs for authentication.
- Set up SSH key passphrase protection.
- Change the default SSH port (if necessary) to reduce automated attacks.

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## **User and Password Management**

- Create individual user accounts for each person who needs access.
- Implement strong password policies and enforce regular password changes.
- Disable unused or unnecessary user accounts.
- Use tools like Fail2ban to protect against brute-force attacks.

## **Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)**

Implement 2FA for SSH and other critical services to add an extra layer of security.

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## **Secure File Permissions**

- Review and configure file permissions and ownership for sensitive directories and files.
- Use the principle of least privilege to grant access only to necessary users and groups.

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## **Monitoring and Logging**

- Set up centralized logging and monitoring using tools like rsyslog and logrotate.
- Regularly review logs for signs of unusual or suspicious activity.

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## **Intrusion Detection**

Install and configure intrusion detection systems (IDS) like Fail2ban or OSSEC to monitor for and respond to security threats.

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## **Secure Web Applications**

- If running web applications, ensure they are up to date and follow best security practices.
- Consider using a web application firewall (WAF) to protect against web-based attacks.

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## **Disable Unused Services**

- Disable unnecessary services and daemons to reduce the attack surface.
- Use `systemctl` or `service` to manage services.

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## **Regular Backups**

Implement regular backups and test restoration procedures to ensure data recovery in case of a breach or system failure.

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## **Security Updates**

Subscribe to security mailing lists or monitoring services to stay informed about vulnerabilities and updates.

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## **File Integrity Monitoring**

Set up file integrity monitoring (FIM) to detect unauthorized changes to critical system files.

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## **AppArmor/SELinux**

Consider using AppArmor or SELinux to confine the actions of processes and limit potential damage from security breaches.

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## **Disable IPv6 (if not needed)**

If your server doesn't require IPv6, consider disabling it to reduce potential attack vectors.

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## **Security Audit**

Periodically conduct security audits and vulnerability assessments of your server.

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## **Hardening Guides**

Follow hardening guidelines provided by Ubuntu or other trusted sources specific to your application and use case.

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## **Physical Security**

If applicable, ensure physical access to the server is restricted to authorized personnel.

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## **Regularly Review Security Policies**

Continuously review and update your security policies and procedures to adapt to evolving threats.

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`As an ending note`, remember that security is an ongoing process. Regularly assess your server's security posture and adapt to emerging threats. Additionally, always keep backups and a disaster recovery plan in place to minimize potential data loss or downtime in case of a security incident.

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## Resources

- 👉 [Deploy Projects](https://deploypro.dev/) using your preferred provider: `AWS`, `DO`, `Azure`
- 👉 Get [Deployment Support](https://deploypro.dev/support/) from the team behind this service