Secure Virtual Machine from Common Threats
How To Secure Your Virtual Machine from Common Threats
Securing your virtual machine (VM) from common threats involves a layered approach that protects the VM at the OS, network, application, and hypervisor levels. A comprehensive list of best practices is provided below:
1 . Keep the System and Software Updated
Regularly install OS patches and security updates.
Keep hypervisor software (like VMware, Hyper-V, or KVM) up to date.
Update applications and services running on the VM.
2 . Harden the Operating System
Disable any unused services and ports.
Disable or delete accounts that aren’t in use.
Change default usernames (e.g., don’t use admin or root where possible).
Enable automatic logoff for idle sessions.
3 . Install and Configure Security Software
Use antivirus/antimalware with real-time protection (e.g., Windows Defender, ClamAV, etc.).
Enable and configure a host-based firewall.
4 . Secure Network Access
To gain remote access, use SSH keys rather than passwords.
Restrict SSH/RDP access to specific IPs (via firewall or security groups).
Use VPN to access VMs securely.
Apply network segmentation – don’t expose critical VMs directly to the internet.
Turn down any unused network protocols and interfaces.
5 . Firewall and Port Management
Block all unnecessary inbound and outbound traffic.
Use tools like ufw (Ubuntu), firewalld (CentOS/RHEL), or Windows Firewall.
Use VLANs or cloud security groups for segmentation.
6 . Use Snapshots and Backups
Regularly back up VM data and configurations.
Use snapshots before making major changes or updates.
Periodically test restoration techniques.
7 . Access Control and Monitoring
Implement role-based access control (RBAC).
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for console and SSH access.
Monitor logs and set up alerts for suspicious activity.
8 . Encrypt Data
Make use of full-disk encryption, such as BitLocker for Windows and LUKS for Linux.
Encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit (SSL/TLS).
Use backups that are encrypted.
9 . Secure the Hypervisor and Host
The hypervisor administration interface can be locked down.
Keep management and data traffic apart.
Regularly patch the hypervisor and underlying host OS.
10 . Perform regular audits and security testing.
Run vulnerability scans using tools like Nessus, OpenVAS, or Lynis.
Pen-test the VM or network periodically.
To find hardening guidelines, use CIS Benchmarks.
Read related: https://blog.vcclhosting.com/do-virtual-machines-require-network-security/: Secure Virtual Machine from Common Threats
