Hey guys,

I finally come around and started the journey of self-hosting and decided to get a VPS. After securing it, by making login via public-key default, I installed CasaOS and instantly regretted it since it now can be reached freely from the internet. A while ago, I read that you can limit the incoming connection to only VPN and ssh. And configured a Wireguard-VPN on the server via pivpn. But the server can still be reached from the internet. So what do I have to do now? Is it even the right choice, or am I missing something? How do you guys secure your VPS?

  • @[email protected]English
    7•1 year ago

    Before you go too far into it and spend lots of time, I think most VPS services let you installed a new OS on their admin site so you can start again from scratch. If you’re not sure that is the right linux flavour, go for something else more mainstream so you can find lots of support online. Looking at the OS, I’m sure it might be good but I’m also sure you can install all the features very easily yourself, especially if it’s just using docker mainly.

    I second UFW. I found this guide useful: https://www.digitalocean.com/community/tutorials/ufw-essentials-common-firewall-rules-and-commands. You might want to try tailscale as others use it for easily setting up vpn access but not used it myself. Also go for fail2ban or, for more assurance but harder work, try crowdsec too.

    You could also use cloudflare dns and add IP and/or country restrictions to block all traffic before it gets to your VPS. I have a country filter and it’s crazy how many bots get blocked from all over!

    • chiisanaEnglish
      1•1 year ago

      Also before diving too deep into firewalls, which is a good idea none the less, just go to SSHd config and set ListenAddress to only listen on the VPN network address instead of public IP, and no one can connect via the public IP.

      Keep it simple, and add complexity only as needed.

      • @[email protected]English
        2•1 year ago

        I personally prefer using public key encryption over passwords for ssh authentication. There’s no need to rely on third-party VPN providers (like ZeroTier or Tailscale) or hosting your own “vpn server” for that purpose as ssh trafic is already encrypted.

        The drawback of following the route you suggested is that you have to operate yet another service that could be misconfigured, potentially causing you to lose access to your server. If you’re keen on further restricting access, consider whitelisting your static(!) IP address, the IP address ranges associated with your provider or the ranges assigned to your country for an additional layer of security.

        • chiisanaEnglish
          1•1 year ago

          I agree. I have all my servers “in the open”, and only use VPN when I need to route my egress through a different geographical location. The reason I’m saying to use ListenAddress instead is because OP is already got the VPN setup, and seems like not going to change from it. No point introducing yet another piece of complexity such as firewall to the mix when their objective can be achieved with what they’re already using.