Deploy a secure web server with ACLs and packet

filtering
A CAPSTONE PROJECT REPORT

Submitted in the partial fulfilment for the Course of

CSA0720-COMPUTER NETWORKS FOR DATA COMMUNICATIONS

to the award of the degree of
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
IN
Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning
Submitted by
Gangisettty Nithin Kumar-192325048
Gutam sudheer kumar-192312520

Under the Supervision of

Dr Kumaran G

SIMATS ENGINEERING
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences
Chennai-602105
July 2025

1
 SIMATS ENGINEERING
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences
Chennai-602105

DECLARATION

We, Gangisetty Nithin kumar, Gutam sudheer kumar of the AI and ML ,ECE , Saveetha
Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, hereby declare that
the Capstone Project Work entitled Deploy a secure web server with ACLs and packet filtering..
is the result of our own bonafide efforts. To the best of our knowledge, the work presented
herein is original, accurate, and has been carried out in accordance with principles of
engineering ethics.

Place:
Date:

Signature of the Students with Names

Gangisettty Nithin Kumar
Gutam sudheer kumar

2
 SIMATS ENGINEERING
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences
Chennai-602105

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the Capstone Project entitled “Deploy a secure web server with
ACLs and packet filtering.” has been carried out Gangisetty Nithin Kumar ,Gutam sudheer
kumar under the supervision of Kumarn G and is submitted in partial fulfilment of the
requirements for the current semester of the B.Tech AI and ML ,ECE program at Saveetha
Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai.

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE
Dr T J Nagalakshmi kumaran G
Program Director Professor
Department Of ECE Department of CSE
Saveetha School of Engineering Saveetha School of Engineering
SIMATS SIMATS

Submitted for the Project work Viva-Voce held on

__________________________________

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMINER

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who supported and
guided us throughout the successful completion of our Capstone Project. We are deeply
thankful to our respected Founder and Chancellor, Dr. N.M. Veeraiyan, Saveetha Institute
of Medical and Technical Sciences, for his constant encouragement and blessings. We also
express our sincere thanks to our Pro-Chancellor, Dr. Deepak Nallaswamy Veeraiyan, and
our Vice-Chancellor, Dr. S. Suresh Kumar, for their visionary leadership and moral support
during the course of this project.

We are truly grateful to our Director, Dr. Ramya Deepak, SIMATS Engineering, for
providing us with the necessary resources and a motivating academic environment. Our
special thanks to our Principal, Dr. B. Ramesh for granting us access to the institute’s
facilities and encouraging us throughout the process. We sincerely thank our Head of the
Department, for his continuous support, valuable guidance, and constant motivation.

We are especially indebted to our guide, Kumaran G for his creative suggestions,
consistent feedback, and unwavering support during each stage of the project. We also
express our gratitude to the Project Coordinators, Review Panel Members (Internal and
External), and the entire faculty team for their constructive feedback and valuable inputs
that helped improve the quality of our work. Finally, we thank all faculty members, lab
technicians, our parents, and friends for their continuous encouragement and support.

Signature With Student Name

Gangisetty Nithin kumar
Gutam sudheer kumar

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TABLE OF CONTENT
S.NO CHAPTERS SUB TOPICS PAGES

1 Abstract 7

1.1 Background Information 7

1.2 Project Objectives

1.3 Significance
2
Chapter 1 1.4 Scope

1.5 Methodology Overview

2.1 Description of the Problem 10

2.2 Evidence of the Problem

3 Chapter 2
2.3 Stakeholders

2.4 Supporting Data/Research

3.1Development and Design 14

Module 1: Apache Setup

Chapter 3 Module 2: Vulnerability Testing

4
3.2 Tools and Technologies

3.3 Solution Overview

3.4 Engineering Standards

3.5 Solution Justification

4.1 Evaluation of Results 17

Module 1: Apache Setup

Module 2: Vulnerability Testing

5
Chapter 4 4.2 Challenges Encountered

4.3 Possible Improvements

4.4 Recommendations

5.1 Key Learning Outcomes 19

5.2 Challenges Encountered

Chapter 5 5.3 Application of Engineering

6
5.4 Insights into the Industry

5.5 Conclusion of development

7 Chapter 6 Conclusion 21

8 References 23

9 Appendices 24

5
List of tables
S.NO Name Page no

1. Summary of Key Issues Identified 13

2. Module 1: Apache Setup Evaluation 17

3 Vulnerability Testing Results 17

4 Appendix A: System Configuration 24

Details

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ABSTRACT
This capstone project focuses on deploying a secure web server using Apache with a strong
emphasis on Access Control Lists (ACLs) and packet filtering to protect against common
cybersecurity threats. The project simulates a real-world hosting environment in which a
website must be delivered securely over HTTPS, hardened against attacks like SQL injection,
and monitored through vulnerability assessments. With the increasing demand for robust
cybersecurity, especially in online services and e-commerce, securing web servers has become
a top priority.

This project aims to implement a full-stack solution combining HTTPS encryption

via OpenSSL, strict server configurations using Apache directives, IP-based access restrictions
using ACLs, and iptables-based packet filtering. Security audits and penetration testing are
conducted using tools like Nikto and Nmap to evaluate server resilience. The project ensures
that only authorized users can access certain areas of the server while malicious payloads and
suspicious traffic are effectively blocked at both the web application and network levels.

The simulation demonstrates not just how to host a secure website, but also how to proactively
defend against intrusion attempts. Future scalability includes integrating fail2ban, web
application firewalls (WAFs), and cloud-based security solutions.

Chapter 1:
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background and Context

In today's digital world, web servers play a pivotal role in delivering content, services, and
applications to end users. Whether it's a personal blog, a corporate portal, or a critical e-
commerce platform, the web server is often the frontline of interaction between the user and
the organization. However, this exposure also makes web servers one of the most targeted
components in any network infrastructure. As a result, ensuring their security has become not
just necessary, but imperative.

Traditionally, many web server deployments focused on functionality and performance, with
security considered as an afterthought. This approach leaves systems vulnerable to a wide range
of attacks, including SQL injection, directory traversal, brute-force login attempts, and
distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. These vulnerabilities can lead to severe
consequences such as data breaches, service disruption, unauthorized access, and reputational
damage.
This capstone project addresses the increasing need for secure server deployments by
demonstrating how to configure a web server—specifically Apache—on a Linux environment
using Access Control Lists (ACLs) and packet filtering mechanisms. The project simulates a
secure hosting environment, enforcing strict rules on who can access what, from where, and

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under what conditions. Additionally, it highlights the importance of encryption (via
HTTPS) and real-time vulnerability testing as part of a comprehensive defense strategy.

The deployment also serves as a learning model to understand how layered security can be
applied effectively using freely available open-source tools. From application-level security
through proper Apache configurations to network-level defenses using tools like iptables, this
simulation encapsulates a complete approach toward securing a web server against modern
threats.

1.2 Motivation for the Project

The motivation behind this project arises from the alarming rise in cyber-attacks targeting web
services globally. Every day, new vulnerabilities are discovered in popular software and server
stacks. Reports show that a significant number of these attacks could have been prevented with
basic configuration changes or network filtering. Unfortunately, many developers and system
administrators lack practical exposure to security implementation at the deployment level.

As a student of Computer Networks and Security, it is critical to move beyond theory and
engage with real-world challenges. This project provides a platform to understand how web
servers work behind the scenes, how they can be exploited, and more importantly, how they
can be defended. It is a hands-on approach to apply concepts like ACLs, firewall configuration,
SSL/TLS encryption, and vulnerability assessment in a practical environment.

This project is also highly relevant in a professional context. With the growing demand for
DevSecOps (Development, Security, and Operations) professionals, the ability to securely
deploy and maintain web infrastructure is a sought-after skill. By implementing and simulating
a secure server deployment, this project not only contributes to academic growth but also
enhances industry readiness.

1.3 Significance of Web Server Security

Web servers, by their nature, are accessible over the internet. This accessibility is a double-
edged sword—it allows global reach but also opens the door to global threats. Without adequate
protection, servers become vulnerable to:

 Data theft or leakage

 Malicious injection attacks (e.g., SQL, command injection)

 Unauthorized access to backend systems

 Exploitation of outdated software

 Abuse by bots, crawlers, and malware

Implementing a secure web server using technologies such as Apache combined with ACLs
and iptables ensures multiple layers of defense. ACLs allow administrators to define who can
access specific files, directories, or server functions based on IP address or user authentication.
Packet filtering ensures that only legitimate and necessary traffic is allowed to reach the server.

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Furthermore, by enabling HTTPS with OpenSSL, all data exchanged between the user and
server is encrypted, ensuring confidentiality and integrity. The use of tools such
as Nikto and Nmap allows for regular vulnerability assessments, helping administrators
identify and patch weaknesses before they are exploited.

The goal of web server security is not just to prevent unauthorized access but to establish
a trustworthy platform that supports scalability, reliability, and compliance with data protection
laws and industry best practices.

1.4 Purpose of the Simulation

This project simulates the secure deployment of a web server in a controlled lab environment
to showcase how a combination of software tools and configuration techniques can lead to a
robust and resilient server setup. The simulation includes the following components:

 Apache Web Server Setup: Configuration of the Apache server to host a sample website
with secure HTTP (HTTPS) using SSL/TLS certificates generated through OpenSSL.

 Access Control Lists (ACLs): Implementation of IP-based restrictions on certain

sensitive directories or administrative paths, ensuring that only authorized users can
access them.

 Packet Filtering using iptables: Creation of firewall rules that allow only specific ports
(e.g., port 443 for HTTPS) while blocking all unnecessary inbound and outbound
connections, thereby minimizing attack vectors.
 Security Testing with Tools: Use of Nikto to scan for common vulnerabilities
and Nmap to verify exposed services and validate firewall configurations.
This simulation not only illustrates how to deploy a functional and secure web server but also
provides a foundation to build more complex security mechanisms in future enhancements. It
serves as an educational platform to practice DevOps security and understand the intricacies of
server hardening.

1.5 Project Scope and Limitations

This project focuses on demonstrating key security measures that can be applied to a web server
at the application and network layers. However, like all simulations, it operates under certain
constraints:

Scope:

 Set up a secure web server on a Linux environment (Ubuntu or Debian)

 Apply HTTPS using OpenSSL and Apache configuration

 Enforce access control using IP whitelisting and .htaccess/.conf files

 Configure iptables to allow only necessary ports and block malicious traffic
 Conduct vulnerability assessments using Nikto and Nmap

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  Demonstrate how logs can be used to monitor attacks

Limitations:

 The project uses a virtual or isolated network environment; it is not tested in a live
public-facing setup

 It does not include high-level security solutions such as intrusion detection/prevention

systems (IDS/IPS)

 Advanced techniques such as rate-limiting, DDoS mitigation, or AI-based threat

detection are outside the current scope

 The server is configured for demonstration, not for production deployment

These limitations point toward potential future upgrades, including

integrating Fail2Ban, ModSecurity, and WAFs for broader protection. Additionally, cloud-
based deployment with containerization (Docker) and CI/CD pipelines can be explored to
improve scalability and automation.

Chapter 2:
PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS
The internet has become an essential platform for communication, commerce, education, and
information sharing. As more services shift online, web servers have become critical
infrastructure components. However, they are also among the most targeted systems by cyber
attackers. In this chapter, we examine the key security issues associated with traditional web
server deployments and analyze how common configurations fall short of modern security
standards. These insights provide the justification for designing a secure deployment strategy
using Access Control Lists (ACLs) and packet filtering

2.1 Increasing Cybersecurity Threats

Web servers are inherently exposed to the internet, making them vulnerable to a range of
threats. Attackers continuously scan for open ports, misconfigured services, and outdated
software. According to multiple cybersecurity reports, attacks on web applications account for
over 40% of all reported breaches. Some of the most common threats include:

 SQL Injection

 Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)

 Directory Traversal

 Denial of Service (DoS)

 Remote Code Execution

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  Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (MITM)

Problems Identified:

 Servers are often deployed with default configurations, which may expose sensitive
directories or services.

 Web applications without encryption (HTTPS) are vulnerable to data interception.

 Public IP exposure of admin panels or login pages increases the risk of brute-force
attacks.

 Without logging or monitoring, attacks often go unnoticed until damage is done.

2.2 Ineffective Access Control Mechanisms

Access Control Lists (ACLs) define who can access which resources on a server. However, in
many deployments, ACLs are either misconfigured or completely absent. This allows
unauthorized users or bots to interact with sensitive resources.

Common Scenarios:

 Admin pages accessible from any IP address

 Directory listing enabled, exposing sensitive files

 No user-agent or geolocation filtering in place

 No IP whitelisting for restricted sections (e.g., /admin, /config)

Consequences:

 Increased attack surface

 Exposure of critical backend scripts

 Risk of privilege escalation

Implementing ACLs is essential to limit access based on user IPs, roles, or authentication
levels. In a secure system, only trusted users or systems should access sensitive services.

2.3 Exposure Due to Unfiltered Network Traffic

At the network level, many web servers are exposed far beyond what is necessary. For example,
a basic web server should only allow traffic on ports 80 (HTTP) and 443 (HTTPS), yet many
installations keep additional ports open, such as:

 Port 22 (SSH) for remote access

 Port 3306 (MySQL) for database interaction

 Port 21 (FTP) for file uploads

Key Issues:

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  Open ports provide attackers entry points for exploitation

 Absence of packet filtering enables scanning, probing, and DDoS attempts

 No geo-IP filtering allows global traffic, increasing the attack vector

Problem Summary:

 No traffic segmentation between internal and public networks

 Unnecessary exposure of backend services

 No mechanisms in place to drop or reject malicious packets

Packet filtering with tools like iptables is critical to deny all traffic by default and allow only
explicitly required services, reducing exposure and increasing control.

2.4 Absence of Secure Communication Protocols

A significant number of web servers still rely on HTTP rather than HTTPS. HTTP transmits
data in plaintext, making it susceptible to interception by attackers through MITM attacks,
especially in open networks.

Implications of Using HTTP:

 Login credentials, cookies, and session data can be captured

 Sensitive business information can be leaked

 Browser warnings discourage users from accessing the site

Implementing HTTPS using SSL/TLS encryption ensures the confidentiality and integrity of
data exchanged between users and the server. Using self-signed or CA-signed certificates
via OpenSSL can secure even internal or test servers.

2.5 Lack of Real-Time Vulnerability Testing and Monitoring

Many server administrators overlook the importance of regular vulnerability scans. Even if the
initial deployment is secure, ongoing software updates and configuration changes can introduce
new weaknesses.

Problems Without Testing:

 Outdated Apache modules or libraries remain unpatched

 Configuration errors go unnoticed

 No logs or alerts in case of suspicious activity

Security tools like Nikto can detect known vulnerabilities such as:

 Exposed server banners

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  Dangerous scripts

 Directory indexing

 Outdated components

Regular testing ensures proactive security management and aids in early threat detection.

2.6 Fragmented Security Implementation

Often, security is implemented in isolated fragments—such as installing a firewall but

forgetting to restrict web access or securing HTTP but keeping admin pages open. Without an
integrated strategy, these measures fail to deliver true protection.

Analysis of Fragmented Approach:

 Lack of coordination between application-level and network-level security

 Manual configurations without audits increase the risk of oversight

 No centralized management dashboard or control panel

 Security becomes reactive rather than proactive

A well-secured server integrates all layers of defense: application, network, and data. ACLs
work in conjunction with iptables, HTTPS encryption, and automated vulnerability scanning
to provide a holistic defense mechanism.

2.7 Summary of Key Issues Identified

Problem Area Identified Issues

Access Control No IP-based restrictions, admin page exposure

Network Exposure Open ports, lack of packet filtering

Data Security Use of HTTP instead of HTTPS

Vulnerability Testing No regular scanning, outdated modules

Monitoring & Logging No logs, alerts, or intrusion detection

Integration of Security Layers Isolated efforts, no unified security strategy

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CHAPTER 3
SOLUTION DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION
3.1 Development and Design Process

The project was developed in two key modules to ensure secure web server deployment and
evaluation through vulnerability testing. Each module follows a structured approach for
configuration, simulation, and evaluation

Module 1: Apache Setup

This module involved setting up a secure web server using Apache HTTP Server with HTTPS
support.

Steps Taken:

1. Server Installation:

 Apache was installed on an Ubuntu 22.04 LTS environment using apt.

 mod_ssl module was enabled for HTTPS communication.

2. SSL/TLS Configuration:

 A self-signed certificate was created using OpenSSL.

 Port 443 was configured for HTTPS communication.

 HTTP (port 80) was disabled to enforce secure communication only.

3. Access Control Lists (ACLs):

 .htaccess and IP-based restrictions were implemented.

 Only specific IP ranges (e.g., 192.168.1.0/24) were granted access.

4. Firewall (Packet Filtering):

 iptables rules were applied to allow only essential ports (22 for SSH, 443 for
HTTPS).

 All other ports were blocked by default (DROP policy).

Module 2: Vulnerability Testing

This module focused on evaluating the security of the configured web server.

Steps Taken:

1. Scanning Tools Used:

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  Nikto: A web vulnerability scanner used to identify outdated software, directory
listings, and misconfigurations.

 Nmap: Used to verify port states and detect any open unintended services.

2. Simulated Attacks:

 SQL Injection attempts were blocked at the application layer

using .htaccess and ModSecurity (optional).

 Directory traversal and server-status vulnerabilities were identified and

mitigated.

3. Hardening Measures:

 ServerTokens and ServerSignature directives were configured to hide server

details.

 Directory indexing was disabled to prevent unauthorized file browsing.

3.2 Tools and Technologies Used

Tool / Technology Purpose

Apache HTTP Server Web server deployment

OpenSSL SSL/TLS certificate generation

iptables Firewall and packet filtering

Nikto Web vulnerability scanning

Nmap Port and service analysis

Ubuntu Server Host OS for deployment

3.3 Solution Overview

The complete solution integrates:

 A secure, HTTPS-only web server

 ACL-based access controls

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  Packet filtering firewall using iptables

 Vulnerability scanning to assess and improve the server’s security

This modular design ensures that both deployment and testing are executed in isolated
yet complementary phases.

3.4 Engineering Standards Applied

Standard Application

Information Security – Applied to server access and

ISO/IEC 27001 firewall rules

Referenced for identifying common web

OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities

IEEE 829 Test planning for vulnerability scans

Apache Security Used for SSL, permissions, and directory

Guidelines restrictions

3.5 Solution Justification

 Apache was chosen for its reliability and flexibility.

 HTTPS ensures data confidentiality and integrity.

 ACLs and firewall rules reduce the attack surface.

Vulnerability testing validates the effectiveness of implemented security controls.

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CHAPTER 4:
RESULTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
4.1 Evaluation of Results
Each module was tested for functionality, security, and performance.

Module 1: Apache Setup Evaluation

Test Result

HTTPS Enforcement Successfully redirected all HTTP to HTTPS

ACL Enforcement Only allowed IP ranges could access the server

Packet Filtering Only SSH and HTTPS ports were reachable

SSL Certificate Validation Browser displayed secure (padlock) symbol

Module 2: Vulnerability Testing Results

Vulnerability Tool Used Outcome

Outdated Apache Detection Nikto Flagged – version upgraded

Directory Listing Nikto Found – disabled via Apache config

Server Info Exposure Nmap Resolved by hiding server tokens

SQL Injection Simulation Manual Denied at application level

Open Ports Check Nmap Only 22 and 443 open (expected)

4.2 Challenges Encountered

SSL Certificate Warnings:

Browsers initially flagged self-signed certificates. This was resolved by importing the
certificate manually.

Nikto False Positives:

Some results needed verification, as tools often report deprecated configurations even if
patched.

Firewall Rule Conflicts:

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Misconfigured iptables rules caused service downtime during testing phases.

Access Testing:

Multiple IPs were used to test ACL effectiveness, requiring network reconfiguration.

4.3 Possible Improvements

Use Let’s Encrypt SSL:

Implement auto-renewing trusted SSL certificates.

Add ModSecurity:

Integrate a WAF for advanced application-level protection.

Automated Monitoring:

Use tools like Fail2Ban or UFW with logs for brute-force protection.

Containerize Deployment:

Dockerize the web server for portability and isolated environment testing.
4.4 Recommendations

Deploy HTTPS by Default:

Never expose web apps without SSL in production.

Regular Vulnerability Scans:

Schedule Nikto/Nmap scans after every configuration change.

Implement Role-Based Access:

Use proper access layers for admins and users.

Keep Apache Updated:

Regular updates close known vulnerabilities.

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CHAPTER 5:
REFLECTION ON LEARNING AND PERSONAL
DEVELOPMENT
5.1 Key Learning Outcomes

5.1.1 Academic Knowledge

This project deepened my understanding of web server architecture, cybersecurity principles,

and secure configuration techniques. I learned how protocols like HTTPS operate and how
tools like iptables enforce network-layer security. I also gained insight into the layered defense
strategy commonly applied in enterprise-grade systems.

5.1.2 Technical Skills

Through practical implementation, I improved my technical competencies in:

1. Installing and configuring Apache Web Server

2. Generating and applying SSL/TLS certificates

3. Implementing IP-based access control in Apache

4. Writing and testing iptables rules

5. Conducting basic vulnerability testing using tools like Nikto and Nmap

These skills are highly relevant for roles in DevOps, System Administration, and
Cybersecurity.
5.1.3 Problem Solving and Critical Thinking

This project required troubleshooting configuration errors, identifying security gaps, and
understanding rule-based logic (especially in iptables). It taught me how layers of security
interact and how minor misconfigurations can expose systems.

5.2 Challenges Encountered and Overcome

5.2.1 Apache Configuration Errors

Incorrect <Directory> and VirtualHost settings initially broke SSL enforcement. By reviewing
documentation and logs, I learned how Apache parses .conf files and how to debug such errors.

5.2.2 iptables Lockout

An incorrectly applied firewall rule locked me out of SSH access. I learned the importance
of established/related rules and safe practices like testing rules in a screen session.

5.2.3 ACL Precision

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The .htaccess rules required exact IP format and proper ordering. Through trial and error, I
figured out how to whitelist specific users securely.

5.3 Application of Industry Standards

I applied security best practices from:

 ISO/IEC 27001 – Risk management and access control

 OWASP – Web application hardening principles

 Linux Foundation Guidelines – Secure firewall setup

 Apache Foundation Docs – For server configuration

All configurations were created with reusability, modularity, and clarity in mind—traits
expected in professional IT environments.

5.4 Insights into the Cybersecurity and Web Hosting Industry

This project showed how even basic web servers are vulnerable without proper configuration.
I learned:

 Encryption (HTTPS) is mandatory, not optional

 Firewall rules reduce exposure to attack surfaces

 Default Apache settings are not secure

 Security is a multi-layered, continuous process

These insights are essential for deploying production-grade services and align well with
industry expectations.

5.5 Conclusion of Personal Development

This capstone project has been transformative in my academic journey and technical growth.
It helped me:

1. Develop a solid foundation in Linux server security

2. Strengthen my skills in web hosting, firewall configuration, and access control

3. Gain hands-on experience with security tools and audit techniques

4. Build confidence to tackle real-world server deployment and hardening

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CHAPTER 6:
CONCLUSION
6.1 Summary of Key Findings
This capstone project focused on the deployment and securing of a web server using Apache
with HTTPS encryption, Access Control Lists (ACLs), and iptables-based firewall rules. The
goal was to create a secure and hardened environment suitable for hosting web applications
with limited access and minimized vulnerabilities.

Key findings include:

1. HTTPS implementation was successful using a self-signed certificate, providing

encrypted communication between server and clients.

2. Access Control using .htaccess and Apache’s configuration files effectively restricted
access to specific IP addresses.

3. iptables firewall efficiently filtered traffic, allowing only SSH (port 22) and HTTPS
(port 443) while blocking all other services.

4. Basic vulnerability scans using tools like Nikto and Nmap confirmed that the server
had no critical exposure.

Each component was tested independently, and the overall system demonstrated strong
alignment with secure web hosting principles. The project highlighted how layered security
(application + network level) helps reduce the attack surface in web environments.

6.2 Value and Significance of the Project

Academic Significance

1. The project reinforced foundational knowledge in web technologies, Linux system

administration, and cybersecurity fundamentals.

2. It bridged the gap between theory (e.g., TCP/IP model, HTTPS protocol) and practical
implementation of security measures on a real Linux server environment.

Professional Significance

1. Working hands-on with Apache, iptables, and access control mechanisms provided real-
world exposure to server hardening, network security, and configuration best practices.

2. It developed job-relevant skills applicable to roles in DevOps, Cybersecurity, Network

Administration, and Cloud Infrastructure.

3. The techniques and tools explored align with the requirements of certifications
like RHCE, CEH, and CompTIA Security+.

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Key Concepts Emphasized:

 Principle of Least Privilege

 Encryption and secure communication

 Packet-level filtering

 Controlled administrative access

6.3 Final Thoughts

This capstone project served as a hands-on blueprint for deploying a web server with strong
security practices. From configuring Apache to enforcing HTTPS and firewall policies, each
step reinforced the importance of proactive defense mechanisms.

Through this journey, I improved my systematic thinking, debugging ability, and gained clarity
on how secure systems are built from the ground up.
Going forward, the technical depth and practical insights gained from this project will help me:

 Design and deploy secure, production-ready servers

 Understand and implement network-layer and application-layer protections

 Continue exploring automation and cloud-based server deployment (e.g., AWS EC2
with security groups)

This project has strengthened my resolve to pursue a career path in Cybersecurity, Linux
Administration, or DevOps, where secure and scalable deployments are crucial.

22
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APPENDIX
Appendix A: System Configuration Details

Component Configuration Details

Operating System Ubuntu Server 22.04 LTS

Web Server Apache HTTP Server (Version 2.4.52)

SSL Certificate Self-signed using OpenSSL (RSA 2048-bit)

Firewall Tool iptables with default policy DROP

Access Control .htaccess and IP-based restrictions via apache2.conf

Ports Allowed 22 (SSH), 443 (HTTPS)

Monitoring Tools Nikto, Nmap

Appendix B: Apache HTTPS Configuration Snippet

<VirtualHost *:443>

ServerAdmin admin@example.com

DocumentRoot /var/www/html

ServerName www.secureweb.local

SSLEngine on
SSLCertificateFile /etc/ssl/certs/selfsigned.crt

SSLCertificateKeyFile /etc/ssl/private/selfsigned.key

<Directory /var/www/html>

Options -Indexes +FollowSymLinks

AllowOverride All

Require ip 192.168.1.0/24
</Directory>

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 ErrorLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/error.log

CustomLog ${APACHE_LOG_DIR}/access.log combined

</VirtualHost>

Appendix C: iptables Rule Set

# Default policy

iptables -P INPUT DROP

iptables -P FORWARD DROP

iptables -P OUTPUT ACCEPT

# Allow loopback

iptables -A INPUT -i lo -j ACCEPT

# Allow established connections

iptables -A INPUT -m conntrack --ctstate ESTABLISHED,RELATED -j ACCEPT

# Allow SSH (port 22)

iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 22 -j ACCEPT

# Allow HTTPS (port 443)

iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 443 -j ACCEPT

Appendix D: Commands Used for SSL Certificate Creation

openssl req -x509 -nodes -days 365 \

-newkey rsa:2048 \

-keyout /etc/ssl/private/selfsigned.key \

-out /etc/ssl/certs/selfsigned.crt

Appendix E: Sample Nikto Scan Result (Partial)

- Nikto v2.1.6

+ Target IP: 192.168.1.10

+ Target Hostname: secureweb.local

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+ Server: Apache/2.4.52 (Ubuntu)

+ SSL Info: Self-signed certificate, 2048-bit RSA

+ Allowed HTTP Methods: GET, HEAD, POST, OPTIONS

+ OSVDB-877: Apache is outdated.

+ OSVDB-3092: /server-status: Server status page found.

+ End Time: 2025-07-10 16:22:11

Deployed a secure web server with ACLs and packet filtering:-

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