Why use SSH keys instead of passwords?

SSH keys are safer against brute-force attacks, allow password-less login, and enable automated scripts. Passwords should be fallback only. Setup: generate SSH keys and upload to panel.

How do I set up UFW firewall correctly?

UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) is simpler than iptables: ufw enable → set default policy to DENY → open only needed ports (SSH 22, HTTP 80, HTTPS 443, game server ports). See UFW guide.

What is Fail2ban and why use it?

Fail2ban monitors logs and automatically blocks IPs after multiple failed login attempts. Protects against SSH brute-force attacks. After install: enable and configure.

How do I automate server tasks with cron?

Cronjobs run commands on schedule (daily, hourly, etc.). Example: daily backups at 2 AM or automatic updates. Check file permissions and enable logging. See cronjobs guide.

My server is getting slow – how do I debug this?

Use 'top', 'htop' to check CPU/RAM, 'df' for disk, 'iotop' for disk speed, 'netstat' for open ports/connections. Usually RAM full or runaway process. Guide: performance debugging.

How do I secure my VPS/root server optimally?

Use SSH keys, UFW firewall + Fail2ban, auto-updates (unattended-upgrades), regular backups, monitor logs (fail2ban, Apache, nginx), minimize open ports, strong root passwords.

What's the difference between chmod and chown?

chmod changes file permissions (read/write/execute for user/group/others), chown changes file owner. Example: chmod 755 makes file readable to others, chown user:group assigns it to user 'user'.

Quick answer: File permissions (chmod, chown), user/group management, pipes (|), wildcards (*,?), directory structure (/home, /etc, /var), package managers (apt, yum), sudo. You need these daily for VPS & root servers.

If you landed here: Quick overview and FAQ on Server Administration – practical hosting guidance for Germany (Frankfurt).

Server Administration

Linux basics, user management, firewalls, SSH security and cronjobs – everything you need for day-to-day server administration.

Available guides:

Cronjobs – Schedule Tasks Automatically
Firewalls with iptables and ufw
Linux Basics for Beginners
Managing Users and Permissions on Linux
Using SSH Keys Instead of Passwords

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