Webmin & Virtualmin Server Setup, Optimization & Ongoing Support Specialist

Overview:

We are seeking a highly proficient and reliable Linux administrator with extensive experience in Webmin and Virtualmin to lead the comprehensive setup, configuration, and optimization of our new or existing Linux servers for efficient and secure web hosting. This critical project involves an end-to-end configuration, ensuring all necessary modules are installed, services are seamlessly integrated, and the environment is hardened for security and tuned for optimal performance, catering to our web applications and client hosting needs. The successful candidate will not only deliver a robust initial setup but also potentially provide ongoing support and guidance.

Responsibilities:

• Installation & Initial Setup:
• Perform a clean, secure, and production-ready installation of Webmin and Virtualmin on designated Linux server(s) (Ubuntu/CentOS/AlmaLinux preferred).
• Ensure all system prerequisites, dependencies, and necessary packages are met and correctly configured for optimal operation.
• Harden the Webmin/Virtualmin control panel interface itself, including configuring strong password policies, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) if supported, and securing administrative access via SSL/TLS.
•  Service Integration & Advanced Configuration:
• Integrate Webmin/Virtualmin with core web hosting services: Apache/Nginx (as primary web server or reverse proxy), PHP-FPM (configuring multiple PHP versions if required), MySQL/MariaDB/PostgreSQL (for databases).
• Configure advanced virtual hosts, domain pointers, subdomains, and DNS zones for multiple websites and applications.
• Set up and manage FTP users, SFTP access, shell access, and cron jobs through the control panel for efficient user management.
• Implement comprehensive email functionalities using Postfix/Dovecot, including setting up mailboxes, aliases, mailing lists, and ensuring secure email communication (SSL/TLS).
• Security Hardening & Performance Optimization:
  • Apply rigorous server-level security best practices, including advanced firewall configuration (e.g., UFW, firewalld, iptables, CSF/LFD), intrusion detection/prevention (e.g., Fail2Ban), and regular security updates for the entire OS and all installed components.
  • Optimize server performance settings for high traffic and responsiveness, including web server tuning (e.g., Apache/Nginx worker processes, caching), PHP-FPM configuration, and database optimization (e.g., query caching, buffer sizes).
  • Implement and manage SSL certificates (e.g., Let's Encrypt, commercial SSL) for all hosted domains with automated renewal.
  • Configure and verify automated daily/weekly backups for all websites, databases, and email accounts managed by Virtualmin, ensuring data integrity and recoverability.
• Testing, Documentation & Knowledge Transfer:
• Thoroughly test all configured services, virtual hosts, email functionalities, and security measures to ensure seamless operation and adherence to best practices.
• Provide comprehensive, detailed documentation of the entire setup, including server access details, critical configuration files, network diagrams, security policies, and troubleshooting tips.
• Conduct in-depth training sessions or workshops for our internal team on managing the server via Webmin/Virtualmin, including common administrative tasks, monitoring, and basic troubleshooting.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 5+ years of hands-on experience with Webmin and Virtualmin installation, configuration, optimization, and administration in a production web hosting environment.
• Expert-level proficiency in Linux server administration, particularly with Ubuntu, CentOS, AlmaLinux, or Debian distributions.
• In-depth knowledge of web server technologies (Apache, Nginx), PHP-FPM, database systems (MySQL, MariaDB, PostgreSQL), and email server components (Postfix, Dovecot, Exim).
• Solid understanding of networking concepts, DNS management (including advanced records like SPF, DKIM, DMARC), and robust firewall management.
• Proven experience with server security hardening techniques, vulnerability management, and performance optimization for high-traffic web applications.
• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot complex server, network, and application issues efficiently and effectively.
• Experience with scripting (Bash, Python) for automation of routine administrative tasks is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a proactive approach to system health.

Key Skills:

• Webmin
• Virtualmin
• Linux Server Administration
• Ubuntu, CentOS, AlmaLinux
• Debian
• Apache, Nginx
• PHP-FPM
• MySQL
• MariaDB
• PostgreSQL
• Postfix
• Dovecot
• Exim
• DNS Management (SPF, DKIM, DMARC)
• Firewall (UFW, iptables, CSF/LFD)
• Fail2Ban
• Server Security Hardening
• Performance Optimization
• SSL Certificates (Let's Encrypt)
• Automated Backups
• Troubleshooting
• Scripting (Bash, Python)
• Documentation
• System Monitoring

Expectations: We expect a highly organized, meticulously configured, secure, and performant Webmin/Virtualmin setup that significantly simplifies the management of our web hosting environment. The freelancer should be a proactive problem-solver, capable of anticipating and resolving issues, and committed to delivering a stable, reliable, and optimized hosting solution. Clear, actionable documentation, comprehensive knowledge transfer, and a willingness to provide potential ongoing support are highly valued. We are looking for a long-term partner who can ensure the continuous smooth operation of our web infrastructure.

Expectations for Support from Freelancer:

• Responsiveness: Prompt communication and response to inquiries (within 24 hours on weekdays).
• Availability: Willingness to be available for urgent issues or critical updates, potentially outside standard business hours, with prior arrangement.
• Troubleshooting: Ability to quickly diagnose and resolve any post-implementation issues that may arise.
• Documentation Updates: Keep documentation current with any changes or optimizations made during the support phase.
• Advisory: Provide expert advice on future scaling, security enhancements, or new feature implementations.

Project Goals:

• Enhanced Performance: Achieve significant improvements in website loading speeds and overall server responsiveness.
• Robust Security: Establish a hardened server environment resistant to common cyber threats, ensuring data integrity and user privacy.
• Simplified Management: Provide an intuitive and fully functional Webmin/Virtualmin interface for easy management of web hosting accounts, domains, and services.
• High Availability: Minimize downtime for hosted websites and services through optimized configurations and proactive monitoring.
• Scalability Readiness: Lay a solid foundation that can easily accommodate future growth in websites and traffic.
• Operational Efficiency: Reduce manual administrative overhead through automation and well-documented procedures.