How to Lose a Server in 5 Days
It’s install day. The server is asking for configurations and what applications to install…
Day 1 – Install all software with default configuration with no patches or updates.
There’s so many checkboxes, so many options, why go through them one by one? Check them all and leave the default configurations in place! Automatic updates, patches… as long as it works now, why bother?
Day 2 – Make your new passwords VERY easy to guess. Let’s make sure this server is secure. Here are some ideas for passwords that never fail at being easy to guess: how about just password (it’s easy enough to remember), your dog’s name, your significant other’s name, etc…
Day 3 – Don’t install any security checking or virus software. What is this malware stuff and why should you bother? Installing the virus scanner is just going to slow down your server right? So leave it off and don’t worry about it.
Day 4 – Disregard all network protection. Port monitoring, intrusion detection, and especially a firewall are definitely our enemies. Let’s go ahead and just leave these elements alone.
Day 5 – Don’t set up any backups. Just to make sure the server is really gone when it goes, let’s not setup any backups. If this server’s not already lost, it will be soon. Now feel free to use this server to host all your crucial business data and get ready for catastrophic failure.
Important: This was a satirical look at what “not to do.” In contrast, here’s a brief look at what you should do.
Install only what you need, keep it patched, and harden your server before putting it online, protect yourself against nasty viruses, don’t leave the door open by thinking this is not an important step, and always backup your data. If you just want to focus on your business and not bother with these essential details let the pros handle it and get a “managed server” from a “Superb” web hosting provider.
