There are a number of techniques that can be used to harden the security of the web servers and to deal with these threats.
Install Antivirus Solutions
Antivirus software is your first line of defense against the viruses and hackers. Install an updated version of the antivirus software on your web server computer and regularly scan it for the viruses, spyware and adware.
Monitor Your Logs
Monitor the log files and detect any suspicious users and activities on the websites that are hosted on your server. The log files can provide you detailed information about the user, IP address, operating system, geographical location and the activities performed on the website.
Mask Your Web Server
Masking involves hiding the details of the server that the hackers and intruders can use to identify your web server software, operating system and the other information about your system.
Use Strong Passwords
Make a habit to use very strong passwords that cannot be easily remembered. Avoid easy to guess and simple passwords. Enable the passwords for the sensitive areas and the administrative functions. Rename the administrator’s account and change the default passwords of all the systems and routers.
Check Server’s Configurations
Limit the unnecessary executable files and make sure that their source code can’t be downloaded automatically. Turn off the WebDAV publishing and automatic directory indexing services if you are not using them.
Don’t use Unnecessary Services
Disable the services that you are not using and disable the sample scripts and the unnecessary scripting languages.
Train your Staff
Train your IT staff and the people who are responsible for managing the web servers. Take regular backups of all data. Divide the administrative tasks in the different administrators and don’t overload a single administrator with multiple tasks. Make sure that your web server is behind a fully configured firewall software or hardware.