Upgrading from shared hosting to VPS automatically guarantees security. Indian VPS hosting gives more resources and control; it doesn’t protect your server by default. The ultimate truth is that VPS is as secure as the way you configure and manage it.
You need active security measures; you need to protect the website, apps, and data. This blog debunks the myth and explains why VPS security requires intentional effort, along with practical ways to fix vulnerabilities before they turn into threats. You can do additional security settings on VPS hosting with cPanel.
VPS Isolation Doesn’t Equal Full Protection
A VPS gives complete root access where attackers cannot exploit weak configurations. If you are operating outdated software or weak passwords, isolation stops the data breaching.
Security depends on active measures like firewalls, updates, and monitoring. Isolation reduces the risks and does not eliminate them. That’s why relying solely on VPS architecture is a dangerous misconception.
Default Server Settings Are Not Secure
Most VPS plans come with standard configurations that focus on compatibility, not security. Default ports, open services, and basic SSH settings expose your server to brute-force and bot attacks.
Configuring the strong settings on the server is essential from day one. Measures like disabling root login, changing SSH ports, and blocking unused services drastically improve the VPS security posture.
Unmanaged VPS = You Handle All Security
If you choose the unmanaged VPS, the web hosting provider will not take care of the server’s responsibility. Several users don’t realize this until malware or downtime affects the system.
Managed VPS plans have the firewall setup, monitoring, patching, and 24×7 support. So, unless you have deep server knowledge, an unmanaged VPS can be risky without proper attention.
Outdated Software Creates Hidden Entry Points
Don’t ignore the security updates to secure your VPS hosting servers. Cybercriminals particularly target outdated PHP versions, CMS installations, and control panels. Even a single unpatched component can expose the entire server.
Enabling automatic updates or scheduling weekly patches ensures that known vulnerabilities are fixed before attackers exploit them. Security is a continuous process, not a one-time task.
Weak Firewalls Make Your Server Vulnerable
A strong firewall acts as a protection layer so no cybercriminals can breach the system. Beginners ignore setting up firewalls, assuming the web hosting provider has already done it. Experts recommend strengthening the firewall settings manually as well.
Firewall settings include configuring rules with tools like UFW, CSF, or iptables. It restricts the malicious traffic. Combining a firewall with intrusion detection adds another powerful protection layer.
Backups and Monitoring Are Not Automatic
Backups, real-time monitoring, and making assumptions are not included in the VPS plans. Skipping this step may escalate into a major downtime event.
It is easier to detect problems early if you set up automated backups and enable server monitoring. You can protect your VPS from cyberattacks and unexpected failures with alerts, logs, and versioned backups.
Ignoring SSH Hardening
It is the half-truth that ‘enabling SSH access means VPS is safe.’ But default SSH settings could be the gateway to several brute force attacks. Keep the stronger login credentials of SSH so no hacker can access it.
If you’re using usernames like “root” or have password authentication enabled, you’re asking for trouble. SSH hardening is not an option; it is by far the first real lock you put on a VPS.
Conclusion
VPS hosting brings more flexibility and performance but not automatic security. However, we have debunked the common myths associated with it. Choose the reliable VPS hosting provider that extends the active community support by offering secured and reliable IT infrastructure.
MilesWeb has a wide range of VPS hosting options with strong firewalls and routine updates. Web hosts extend the right level of management to protect your VPS server from bot traffic and cyberattacks. Their team is available 24×7 to assist you with all kinds of server monitoring activities.