The DotNetNuke is a popular Content Management System that allows companies and organizations to easily create and manage websites. It is important that your DotNetNuke installation is protected from unauthorized access because of the amount of sensitive data stored on these websites. The best practices for DotNetNuke security will be covered in this article.
Latest DotNetNuke Version:
Keeping your installation up-to-date with the latest security patches and updates is one of the most important aspects of DotNetNuke security. This will make sure that any vulnerabilities in the software are patched as soon as possible so that your website remains secure. It is recommended to upgrade and updates your DNN to the latest version of DotNetNuke as soon as possible.
Password Policies:
Weak passwords are a common cause of website security breaches. Password policies are important to ensure that all users have strong passwords. Password policies should have requirements such as minimum length, use of special characters, and regular password changes.
Use SSL encryption:
SSL is used to keep sensitive information sent across the Internet encrypted so that only the intended recipient can access it. Any website that handles sensitive data, such as usernames, passwords, and credit card information, should be secured with SSL encryption. Data can't be eavesdropped on by unauthorized users with the implementation of SSL encryption.
Remove RAD Telerik Controls:
Telerik was the File Manager and Uploader of Site Assets and Global Assets, which used the Digital Assets Manager. Telerik UI controls were originally introduced to DNN products to make it easier for extension developers to build UI components and to provide consistency in the appearance of various modules on a page. However, most developers have switched to lightweight client-side frameworks for UI rendering. Therefore, Telerik components have become unnecessary to the core product. Removing Telerik will likely provide significant performance improvements through more efficient memory utilization, faster application start-up, secure file uploading with permissions, and smaller page sizes.
User Access and Permissions:
Administrators have to keep eye on assigned permissions to the content, module extensions, and pages. It’s always advisable to use the proven secure third-party and custom extension which has security constraints properly applied and no unauthorized access possible. Users should not be able to access the sensitive data which they are not supposed to be able to see or access, it can be done by the DNN Permission mechanism applied to MS Membership. Third-party API, Services should be authenticated with the proper credential authorizing process, it’s the Web master’s responsibility to track the event log, prevent accidental changes or malicious actions, and make sure no unauthorized access is possible from the DNN member area. On wrong credentials, user locking and notification should be configured.
Backup DNN:
It is important to back up your DNN website frequently. In the event of a security breach, you can quickly restore your DNN website to its previous state. There should be a separate location for backups from the production server. Automated extensions, Functions, and the scheduled process by different tools are available to configure. Comparing unauthorized changes can be possible if have a valid last working copy to investigate and fix the security issues.
Third-Party Extension:
A process like a scheduler and extensions can be developed and installed to detect and prevent attacks, monitor website activity, and block suspicious traffic. Hosting panel configuration should prevent DDos, SSRF, and CSRF. It’s always recommended to use an experienced developer to develop a custom extension, an experienced developer knows how to handle the request and pass through validity check like cookie and token forgery test, SQL Injection, validating with third-party or inbuilt captcha application, blocking IP address for brute force prevention, which limits the number of login attempts from a single IP address.
Monitor Activity & Logs:
Monitoring website activity is very important for detecting potential security breaches. Not only the site log but file uploading, user-created, login attempt, and file created with aspx (or suspicious) extension, etc all observing involved. DNN Event log and notifications as email should be configured, IIS and Virtual Directory file write permission needed to revise periodically, FTP credentials and access log needs to reviewed from time to time to stay secured and find attack as soon as possible.
Train and Aware Users:
Users can still compromise website security even with the best security practices. Training your users on security best practices can help prevent accidental breaches. Password security, website usage policies, and how to recognize and report security threats should be covered in training and learning sessions. The support system should be available to act immediately when a user reports or founded potential security threats.
Hardening DNN Database:
SQL Permissions: the DotNetNuke sites are installed and run under dbo, however, there are a few options for sites that wish to operate under a reduced set of user permission. DotNetNuke primarily requires most of its permissions during installation and upgrading as well as installation/upgrading of some extensions. This is because these scripts will contain DDL instructions such as SQL to create and modify tables and stored procedures. Assigning proper user permissions and avoiding execution of DML and DDL queries by extensions makes your database more secure.
DNN Configuration:
Hash Password Storage does the encryption of user passwords, this provides a good level of protection. Custom DNN user Authentication Provider inspection, Host user's password change frequently, use the captcha to retrieve password, setting reset password link time, banned password list, password expiring, checking through Security Analyzer to find changed files, settings, and database, Superuser activity check, auto lock user and file extensions to allow upload. Keep the DNN Security Analyzer extension updated. Keep the reach editor version updated.
DNN Security Center keeps eye on hacking attacks and releases the patch frequently https://www.dnnsoftware.com/community/security/security-center It’s highly recommended to check and install the security patch from time to time.
Ensuring the security of your website is a crucial task that requires a customized approach. At Dnn Developers, we understand the importance of protecting your website and can provide tailored solutions to meet your specific DotNetNuke (DNN) requirements. Whether you need a brand new website and modules developed, or an audit of your existing site, we have the expertise to help.
Our team of experienced professionals will work closely with you to identify potential security risks and develop a comprehensive plan to address them. We offer a range of services to enhance the security of your website, including regular security updates, user access management, SSL encryption, security extensions, website backups, and monitoring of website activity.
Don't leave the security of your website to chance. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you ensure that your website and your user's data are protected. At Dnn Developers, we take website security seriously, and we are committed to delivering the best possible solutions to our clients.
In conclusion, DotNetNuke security is essential for protecting your website from unauthorized access and attacks. By implementing these best practices, you can help ensure that your website remains secure and your users' data is protected. Remember to keep your installation up-to-date, use strong passwords and enforce password policies, limit user access and permissions, use SSL encryption, enable security extensions, regularly back up your website, monitor website activity, and train your users on security best practices.