Archivio per la tag 'Remote'
The Security of Web Server Software Programs
As with Web server operating systems, discussed in another article, “The more complex the Web server software is, the greater is the chance that something will go wrong.” Generally speaking, the more functionality and features that are provided by a Web server, the greater is the likelihood that there are security holes in the software.
Basic Web server software that merely provides access to static files is more secure than sophisticated Web server software that provides functions such as the execution of CGI scripts, the processing of server-side includes, the handling of scripted errors, and the dynamic listing of directories.
Web server software also differs in the degree of control accorded to browser users. Certain Web servers allow users access to only certain documents or directories or sub-directories, while some Web servers allow full access to everything. Some can be configured to allow access to certain directories according to the IP address of the client machine, or to individuals who know the right password. There are a few Web servers that offer data encryption, a necessity for e-commerce web sites. These are mainly commercial Web servers.
Here is some advice on how to make a Web server more secure:
- By their nature, Web servers have security holes. One of the most common causes of a breach of security is the CGI script. If you cannot get a CGI programming expert to check the scripts’ code, at least test the scripts to ensure that they verify the data entered by a browser user before granting access to confidential documents or any services provided by the Web server’s operating system.
- Configure the Web server carefully.
- Executable files should be allowed to run only in certain directories that you specify.
- Source code should not be stored anywhere where it can be downloaded.
- Automatic directory indexing should be switched off. If you use an external Web hosting company and you cannot switch it off, ensure that all accessible sub-directories contain a default file such as ‘index.html’ that redirects the browser to the home page.
- If you do not need them, disable Content Management Systems and other features that allow browser users to edit and manage files on remote Web servers, such as WebDAV, SMB, SharePoint, etc.
- Identify potential weak points by utilizing the security tools that come with the Web server software and the Operating System, such as the Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) Lockdown Tool and the URLScan security tool.
- Private and public information should be kept physically well apart. Confidential or sensitive data should not reside on the same machines as publicly accessible Web servers. Intranets should always be protected by a firewall, but extranets can be tricky, if you want to allow certain outsiders to have access to some private data. An extranet Web server should be located outside the firewall. (This is known as a “sacrificial lamb” configuration.) A variation is to set up paired “inner” and “outer” Web servers. Another possibility is to use a proxy, which intercepts requests and forwards them to the Web server, and then does the same in the reverse direction. Ideally, any publicly accessible Web server should be located on a machine other than that on which the firewall resides.
- A Web server logs all requests. Log files should be checked regularly for any unusual entries, and anything suspicious should be investigated.
- Users’ and user groups’ access should be restricted to only what they need. Set access levels and permissions accordingly by means of the operating system’s security software. For Unix systems, the Computer Oracle and Password System (COPS) checks for many common misconfigurations. (Network Administrators often create a user group called “www” for trusted users, such as Web authors, and only members of this group have ‘write’ permission for the document root directory and its sub-directories. For maximum security of the server root directory, which contains the system configuration files, the Network Administrator sometimes gives the Web Master a special “www” user status, the only one with ‘write’ permission for it.)
- Keep an eye on what users are doing on the network. Security holes can be created innocently by uninformed users if they install one of the many free Web servers that are readily available.
- Password policy should be sensible and adhered to. Simple passwords, based on birthdays or family names, etc., should be taboo. At the other extreme, the rules should not be so strict that passwords need to be written down in order to remember them. Passwords should be changed regularly, and default passwords should be changed immediately. Default accounts, e.g., “guest log-in”, should be eliminated. Extra care should be taken with privileged accounts, such as for administrators. Confidential documents, sensitive areas and administrative functions should always be password-protected.
- Security updates and patches should be installed immediately. This applies equally to the Operating System as to the Web server software. Automate these processes if possible, but, at least, be on the look-out for security alerts from the software suppliers.
- Any feature, server or interpreter that is not actually used should be uninstalled, or at least disabled. For example, remove the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) server that Web servers usually provide, if you are not going to use it. Likewise, Trivial File Transfer Protocol (tftp), Network Information Services (NIS) clients, systat, finger, Networked File System (NFS), gopher, sendmail, and unneeded scripting languages and example scripts should go. For example, if the Web site does not use CGI scripts written in Perl, remove the Perl interpreter. Such items are just another security risk.
In summary, as can be seen clearly from the foregoing, whatever is not actually needed should be removed or disabled.
All rights reserved :: S Avery MSc BA(Hons) – Software Engineer and Web Designer :: Check your website security at website-security.biz.
Article from articlesbase.com
Budget Travel in Morocco ? Overland Style!
Morocco is one of Africa’s most mysterious and interesting destinations, bringing to mind all the old world glamour and mystical charm of Casablanca and Rick’s American Cafe. For travellers on a budget, overland tours offer the best way to experience this country’s wide range of attractions at affordable prices.
Situated in North Africa, Morocco is just a boat trip away from both the Middle East and Spain. Famous for its romantic and rather mysterious city of Casablanca, the country offers a heady mixture of exotic markets, fascinating Arabic culture, delicious cuisine and ancient Roman ruins – not to mention beautiful desert and mountain landscapes.
Morocco budget travel is unlike anything you have experienced and a visit to this country gives you the chance to learn more about some of the top attractions and landmarks that can be found here.
Top destinations that you can visit on a Morocco overland tour include the following:
- Tangier
Tangier is a beautiful and fascinating city that is a vivid mix of Africa, Spain, and France. As the northern most city of Morocco this is a popular port for travel between Africa and Spain and has a distinct Mediterranean vibe, alongside the mysterious allure of exotic Morocco. Vibrant markets, ancient cultures, heady aromas and mystery, unspoiled beaches and friendly people go hand in hand with a fascinating history, making this a highly rewarding stop on any overland tour. Key highlights in Tangier include the Kasbah, the tomb of Ibn Battouta, Teatro Cervantes, the Tangier American Legation Museum, Musée d’Art Contemporain de la Ville de Tanger and the Ave Mohamed VI beach.
- Fez
Fez (also called Fès in the native French) is an ancient walled city, one of the only medieval cities in Africa. This is a highly important stop on any Morocco budget travel adventure, offering a riveting glimpse into an ancient culture, with incredible artefacts and strong sense of history. Highlights include the Bou Inania madersa, which is a breathtaking 14th-century religious college; the Borj Nord fortress for its amazing armaments; Merenid Tombs for the panoramic views over the medina and city; the Moulay Idriss II shrine, the tomb of Fez’s founder; the Qaraouyine library and mosque and the al-Tijani mosque to name but a few.
- Todra Gorge
Morocco’s version of the Grand Canyon is a must-see on any Morocco overland tour. The canyon is situated on the remote east side of the High Atlas Mountains and is a popular hiking spot with a well-maintained dirt road to walk along. The views and scenery here are incredible with excellent photographic opportunities as you take in the towering mountains which change colour as the sun moves across the gorge.
- Marrakech
One of the better-known towns of Morocco, Marrakech is divided into two parts: the Medina (the historical city) and the new European modern district called Gueliz or Ville Nouvelle. The Medina has a blend of ancient markets and culture, with old architecture to be found, while the new district has modern shops and fast-food chains, with a more European feel. There are plenty of markets (souks) and attractions to explore, especially in the Medina – with historical sites and plenty more on offer during your Morocco overland tour in this city.
Morocco budget travel is unlike anything you have experienced. If exotic deserts, fascinating culture and ancients ruins is your idea of the perfect travel experience then look no further than a Morocco overland adventure!
Article from articlesbase.com
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The Differences Between A Dedi Server And A Virtual Server
As more and more solutions for virtual servers come online, many are wondering if it is time to jump ship and transition to Windows virtual server, or even a Linux virtual server. Fully functional, these virtual servers work in the same manner as a physical server. There are allocated resources and the software is able to handle all the same sorts of functions of a physical machine. A virtual server host can provide all the same functionalities as the company hosting physical, dedicated servers, but as there is a reduction in the amount of hardware needed, and these solutions are easily maintained remotely, they are also often less expensive than traditional server options.
Those who are most familiar with Windows, and use this as the primary operating system of choice, are going to want to look for a Windows virtual server hosting company. Knowing that you’ve chosen a company that has an advanced understanding of Windows and all its related functionalities is one of the main reason to choose a targeted Windows virtual server host. A virtual server is just as customizable as the traditional dedicated server, can be tailored to your operating system, and all the advanced needs of your business.
If you are using more open source, Linux-based applications and programs, you need a solutions that involves those who are experts in the field of open source, meaning you’ll want to look for a Linux server hosting company to meet the needs of your network. This allows you to run a Linux virtual server, and maintain all your networking, file transfers, and daily application processing with ease. No matter what your operating system of choice, there is a virtual server hosting solution available to meet all your needs, and at a price you can afford.
Just as advanced as any physical server solutions to date, virtual servers are just as fast, efficient, secure, and customizable as any alternative. Running a business in a virtual environment can be cost effective and time saving, as the ability to automate, and run virtually day-to-day business applications with ease is what these solutions are all about. With just a bit of research, you can find a virtual server host that has a history of providing high quality, reputable, and relational service. No matter what type of virtual solution you are looking for – be it a Windows virtual server host or a Linux virtual server host – you’ll likely be surprised at the sheer number of quality options you have at your disposal.
As virtual servers are the latest and most advanced networking technologies, many see this is as they way of the networking future. Virtual server hosting is an excellent solution should you desire to transition from the traditional dedicated server to one of the latest virtual servers. Providing the same (if not better) levels of security, efficiency, customization, and utility, but at a lower cost, in general, when compared with the physical solutions, it is easy to see why so many are making the change. To ensure that your virtual server solutions meets all your business needs and is tailored towards said needs, a bit of research is all it takes to find an affordable, reputable, and fully customizable virtual solutions that meets and even exceeds your expectations.
For Windows virtual servers check out Switchlink. Switchlink provide virtual servers.
Article from articlesbase.com
how to create a dedicated server on HALO CE.
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Review of Hostgator’s Dedicated Windows Servers
The dedicated windows servers from HostGator are fully loaded with the best components available and are powered by Dell servers with Windows Server 2008 R2 w / Remote Desktop (w, 64 or 32-bit support) operating system. You can also ask for a different version of Windows if you need it.
HostGator has a total of four dedicated windows server packages available for you to choose from. Starting with their basic plan or you can opt for the top of the line, professional plan.
Each of HostGator’s windows dedicated servers are configured with Intel Xeon Dual Core or Quad Core processors and come with a very good capacity of 1GB – 8GB of RAM, lots of power and memory to host even the most traffic intense websites.
Compared to other dedicated windows server packages I’ve seen, your bandwidth is not so bad either that you receive, 1500 to 2500GB per month, depending on the server plan you choose. I’d like to see unlimited, but it just had to find plans in this same price range when comparing windows dedicated servers cheap like this.
For storage of your website files, you will receive one 250GB hard drive or two 500GB hard drives.
With up to 13 dedicated IP addresses, this is a lot to run several different websites, and when it comes to SEO, the SERP’S like to see very limited sites hosted on the same IP, so that’s a bonus, other hosting providers that I’ve seen only offer three to six.
Each of the hostgator dedicated windows servers is quite capable of handling even very high traffic websites. They also all come with hostgator’s 99.9% Uptime guarantee, so you can be sure that your websites are in operation without any interruption.
When you need a powerful dedicated windows server, hostgator I think, depending on the server options and price budget you’re looking for, Hostgator is one of the best options to go with.
Not only will you receive a powerful dedicated server to host your websites, you also get dedicated control panels that allow you to create and manage web hosting accounts for other customers quickly and easily if you decide to sell hosting on your server also, with the latest version of Plesk.
Choosing between a dedicated server vs. shared server.
If you have a high traffic website, chances are that you’d be better off going with a dedicated server. With this choice, you can also install any server software you need to manage your websites, with shared servers, you can’t, and you’re limited to software already installed on that server.
You can also lose much of your server performance with a shared hosting server as chances are, that hosting company has hundreds of other websites running on the same server that you’re on.
Dedicated windows servers give you full access to all server resources that are available on the server for your use alone and will give your site an instant performance gain.
Hostgator now has Microsoft SQL Server 2005/2008
In addition to the standard Microsoft SQL Server Express that’s included with all hostgator windows dedicated servers, you now have the opportunity to upgrade to other versions of Microsoft SQL.
Once your account is configured, you can upgrade to Microsoft SQL Workgroup, Standard or Enterprise versions of Microsoft SQL server database solutions for your database management needs.
If you’re running ASP.Net, this is a great upgrade for you to choose, because SQL Express is very limited to what you can do with it.
When looking for a powerful and cheap Dedicated Windows Server, make sure that you do your own research also. If you decide to go with Hostgator, grab a hostgator coupon to save on your hosting needs.
Article from articlesbase.com
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Dedicated servers have their fair share as well
Dedicated servers are the ones surrounded by a series of network computers, providing web hosting to high traffic, multi domain-name websites. These are the servers of choice for big organizations with businesses in many countries as well as those who need to personalize their websites as per their requirements. They are great if you need a large cyber space.
While dedicated servers provide great peace of mind for companies who need to protect their online presence and have confidentiality needs. You can also have access available to the server’s memory and data processing whenever you need.
These servers can also accommodate very heavy traffic to your website with the unlimited bandwidth many of them offer. They offer you the flexibility of installing your own software on the server. You can choose the right operating system for these servers, which suites the particular needs of your business and you get full remote access to your server.
Okay, so we all know all of this. But what are some of the cons or disadvantages that dedicated servers have? Are there none? No, that is not the case. Nothing comes with no down side at all. Dedicated servers have their fair share as well. Although, in many instances, these disadvantages are compensated by the many advantages that these servers offer, the disadvantages should still be closely considered in order to make a better informed decision about selecting a web hosting server.
The biggest disadvantage of dedicated servers is the high cost associated. While acquiring hosting on a shared server is very economical, the same on a dedicated server can be very expensive. Since the cost of hosting with shared servers is divided between many users, it is much more affordable especially for individuals and small companies. But due to the fact that dedicated servers are used for a single client, the whole cost has to be paid by them. Other reasons for the high cost include more personalization options that dedicated servers offer as compared to their counterparts.
Technical Support:
Shared servers usually provide much more technical support to its users than what dedicated servers provide. This is done on the pretext that a business which would use the latter, will be technically sound enough to handle the server operations on its own.
Therefore, if you are not an expert in the technical area and hence may not be able to manage a dedicated server’s operation, you will need to either opt for a shared server or get professional help for a fee.
Inbuilt scripts and other features:
There are many inbuilt, pre installed features available in shared server packages like free scripts etc. Such features are usually not added in dedicated web hosting. As dedicated server users have particular hosting needs and are thus expected to have specific knowledge about site building, these pre installed features are left out for these servers.
These are some disadvantages that one needs to consider before making a decision to acquire a server for web hosting.
Visit dedicated servers cheapest dedicated server and read what other customers say. For other web hosting companies customers opinions and ratings visit cheap dedicated servers website.
Article from articlesbase.com
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