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Linux Server Security Tip: Restrict users’ use of previous passwords

Linux Server Security Tip: Restrict Users’ Use of Previous Passwords

When it comes to managing a VPS (Virtual Private Server), security is a top priority. One of the most common security vulnerabilities is weak or reused passwords. This article will guide you on how to enhance your Linux server security by restricting users’ use of previous passwords on your Hong Kong VPS Hosting.

Why Restrict Use of Previous Passwords?

Users often recycle their old passwords, which can pose a significant security risk. If a password has been compromised in the past, reusing it can lead to unauthorized access. By restricting the use of previous passwords, you can significantly reduce this risk and enhance the overall security of your Server.HK.

How to Restrict Use of Previous Passwords in Linux

Linux provides a built-in feature to restrict the use of previous passwords. This feature is controlled by the PAM (Pluggable Authentication Modules) system, specifically the ‘pam_unix.so’ module.

Step 1: Configure PAM

Open the PAM configuration file for the password service. This file is typically located at ‘/etc/pam.d/common-password’.

sudo nano /etc/pam.d/common-password

Find the line that includes ‘pam_unix.so’. Add ‘remember=5’ to the end of this line. This will restrict the use of the last five passwords.

password [success=1 default=ignore] pam_unix.so obscure use_authtok try_first_pass sha512 remember=5

Step 2: Test the Configuration

After saving the changes, test the configuration by changing the password of a user. If you try to change the password to one of the last five passwords, the system should prevent you.

Additional Security Measures

While restricting the use of previous passwords can enhance your Linux server security, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Here are some additional security measures you should consider for your cloud server:

  • Use strong, unique passwords: Encourage your users to use passwords that are long, complex, and unique.
  • Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification.
  • Regularly update your server: Ensure your server is up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates.
  • Limit root access: Only give root access to users who absolutely need it.

Conclusion

Restricting the use of previous passwords is a simple yet effective way to enhance your Linux server security. By implementing this, along with other security measures, you can ensure that your Hong Kong VPS Hosting is well-protected against unauthorized access. Remember, a secure server is not only beneficial for you, but also for your users who trust you with their data.