You've logged into the new VPS. Before installing everything, find the recovery console and decide which services really need to be public. A little care at this stage makes it much less likely that your first configuration change will lock you out.
Keep a working recovery route before changing authentication or firewall rules.
Find the recovery controls first
Locate the provider console or recovery process and confirm you can access the account that controls it. Use strong, unique credentials and available account protection. Store application secrets outside public repositories and never paste them into public support screenshots.
Test a new login before removing the old one
For an Ubuntu server, follow the current OpenSSH documentation for users, keys and configuration validation. Keep your existing session open while verifying a second login. Do not disable a working access method until you have confirmed the replacement and recovery route.
Open only the services you need
List the ports your application actually requires. Follow the firewall documentation for your operating system, taking care to allow the management connection you use. Test from another session before closing the first. A firewall cannot fix weak application credentials or replace application updates.
Make maintenance routine
Plan operating-system and application updates with a recovery copy before significant changes. Review failed jobs and access alerts, and test backups periodically. Security is not a one-time setup script: your exposed services and dependencies can change as the project grows.
Your next steps
- Confirm recovery access.
- Test a second login before restricting access.
- Document required ports and update jobs.
Questions readers ask
Should I paste a generic hardening script into the server?
Understand the changes first. A script that alters SSH or firewall settings can lock you out if it assumes a different setup.
Further reading
Explore hosting plans
Compare the resources for your project. Check current availability and the final billing details before ordering.
Explore VPS options