Network Servers

5. Security

Your server may fail at some point. This could be due to a hardware or software problem, or because of malicious activity, like hacking or a virus.

There are many actions you can take to minimise the risk of failure or disaster, and to help you restore your system after any incidents.

5.1 Fit your network server with an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

This is basically a large battery which powers the server during power cuts and eliminates power surges.

• The UPS should be compatible with your network operating system and management software. This is so the UPS can shut down the network properly.

5.2 Back up your data.

• Choose a convenient, high-speed back-up device, such as a tape drive or DVDs. You can also use an online backup service to save your data remotely.
• Ensure you can automatically back up at least one day's worth of new data.
• Use backup software to automate the procedure. This allows you to do backups at times when the system is not being heavily used.
• Use a cycle of backup tapes to record new data every day and a full copy of the entire hard disk every week.
• Store a full copy of the system off site and test restoring from your backup at least every three months.

5.3 You can protect against hard disk failure.

• Use a RAID or mirroring system.
• With mirroring, the system software keeps two copies of everything and will automatically use the mirrored copy if the first copy fails.
• RAID uses several hard drives to protect your data, but is not a substitute for regular backups too.

5.4 Use security software to protect your server.

• A security package should include virus, Trojan and spyware protection, plus a software firewall.
• Use a hardware firewall to provide an additional layer of protection.

5.5 Make sure your server is physically secure.

• Keep your server in a locked room with access restricted to essential personnel only.
• Consider keeping it off the ground floor to protect against flood damage