Sysadmin Resources

Setting up a server on the Mason Network

• Before Connecting
   
  1. Join Mason's Systems Administrators Leadership Team (S.A.L.T.) listserv and attend meetings.
  2. Understand your job responsibilities by reviewing the Responsible Use of Computing Policy.
  3. Register your computer if you need a Public Internet Address.
  4. Before connecting your server to the Internet, make sure you have installed the latest patches. Verify that all ports and services that are not needed are disabled or closed.
  5. Before connecting to the network, remediate against the SANS Top 20.
  6. Create strong, hard to break passwords, for administrative account and user accounts.
  7. Do not use the same password for multiple devices.
  8. Configure system to create logfiles.
  9. Physically secure your computer(s).
• After Registering and Connecting
   
  • Monitor your log files at least daily.
  • Backup important data.
  • Ensure that only authorized individuals have access to your systems.
  • Limit your use of admin privileges, only use when necessary.
  • Know what steps to take if you suspect a security incident.
  • Follow the trends and stay current with latest threats and updates.
  • Configure system settings to close unused ports and unused system accounts. Deny access to known bad sites.
  • Develop a recovery plan in the event you are on vacation and the hardware fails, your system gets hacked, or something 'just happens.'
  • Professional development: develop a plan with your supervisor. Attend classes, seminars, conferences, workshops, use Mason's license with Skillport to take online courses-anytime, anywhere.