Server Security

Server Security is something that all web owners have to concern themselves with. Attacks on a website usually involve the abuse of CGI scripts that are poorly written. Security holes in the server allow an attacker to access website codes, passwords, and other core parts of the website. When core parts of the website can be accessed, the security of credit card information, private user information, and passwords can be compromised. Additionally, unauthorized access to the websites server can lead to defaced web pages and the manipulation of content.

Common Types of Attack on a Server

There are many different ways that a server can be attacked. One type of attack occurs when the CGI code is manipulated so that it denies service to the server. When this form of attack occurs, users are prevented from using the network. This form of attack often occurs on websites that have a higher profile.

A forged request is another server attack that commonly occurs. When a servers request is forged, customers are tricked or forced into loading a web page that contains a request that is harmful. This malicious act can lead to the customer’s private information becoming available to the attacker. Other common forms of attack include, intercepting and manipulating server messages, reading the server file database, and writing the server file database. These malicious attacks make it incredibly important for websites to invest in Web Service Security.

Methods of Prevention

Before an attack on a websites server occurs, web owners should take certain steps to prevent them. One way a web owner could prevent attacks on their server is to create and implement security policies. These security policies should clearly spell out the security goals of the organization and instructions on how to reach those goals. For further protection, web owners should implement security technologies in a layered manner so that the company is not solely reliant on technology when solving issues regarding security.

Auditing the organizations network on a regular basis is another way of preventing server attacks. When the network is audited on a regular basis, web owners can better ensure that polices regarding security are being enforced. Additionally, auditing the network ensures that the network has not developed irregularities that compromise the websites security. When irregularities go undetected, the server has a higher chance of being attacked. Web owners should also avoid systems containing single point of failure.

Because an insecure server can have so many negative consequences, it is important for web owners to do what they can to prevent attacks. Attacks on the server can lead to costly results for the web owner and visitors to their website. Furthermore, failure to prevent these attacks can lead to the destruction of systems, manipulation of information, and other harmful ramifications. Companies who ensure that their web server is secure are not only protecting themselves, but their visitors as well. The time and money spent on protecting a websites server is time and money well spent.