Boosting Your WebLogic System Security
In a three-tier web architecture, security measures are typically implemented separately at each layer for both internet-facing and local network applications. Most of these measures are focused on the firewall layer, often neglecting the layers beyond it. However, a significant number of attacks and security vulnerabilities originate from former employees, individuals with detailed system knowledge, or users within the network. Therefore, security measures for critical applications should also be considered at the application server level.
Oracle WebLogic Application Server
The Oracle WebLogic application server is widely used in the enterprise Java world. However, WebLogic installations are often left with default configurations. If you are managing and operating a “WebLogic Domain” for the following services, it is crucial to enhance its security:
- Banking Applications
- Official Public Institution Applications
- Internet-facing e-Commerce Web Applications
Critical Security Measures
To protect your WebLogic Domain against internal and external attacks, consider the following essential security measures:
Configuration Details
- Default Port Numbers: Avoid using default port numbers such as 7001, 7002, etc.
- Admin User: Do not use the default “weblogic” value as the admin username for the WebLogic Domain.
- Startup Scripts: Avoid passing admin “username|password” information as parameters in WebLogic startup scripts. Instead, use the “-Dweblogic.system.BootIdentityFile=$PATH/boot.properties” variable and an encrypted “boot.properties” file.
- Administration Port: Enable the “Administration Port” feature for WebLogic.
- Cross Domain Security: Ensure the “Cross Domain Security” feature is active.
- Admin Console Context Path: Change the default “console” context path value for the WebLogic domain admin console.
- Custom Identity and Trust: Use Custom Identity and Custom Trust (JKS).
- SSL Certificates: Install valid SSL certificates on WebLogic instances and configure internal traffic to use HTTPS.
- Custom Hostname Verifier: Implement a “Custom Hostname Verifier”.
- Max Post Size: Set the “Max Post Size” value. The default setting is unlimited.
- Frontend Host and Port: Enter the “Frontend Host” and “Frontend HTTPS Port” values.
- IO Buffer Sizer: Determine and enter the “Minimum, Maximum, IO Buffer Sizer” values.
- JMS Resources: Secure JMS resources.
- LDAP Authentication: Configure LDAP authentication and authorization settings.
- Administration Auditing: Enable “Administration auditing” for the WebLogic domain and ensure logging of details.
Importance of Security Configurations
Most live critical system applications running on WebLogic do not have these configurations implemented. As long as these configurations are not in place, each item represents a potential attack vector, leaving the WebLogic domain vulnerable to various attacks.
Expert Recommendations
If you are managing an important system’s WebLogic application, it is highly recommended to review your security settings and enhance your protection against internal and external attacks. Securing applications always requires effort and extensive knowledge. While this process can be challenging, it will ultimately result in a stronger and more secure system.
Do not hesitate to seek expert support for the security configuration of application servers. Everyone has a role to play in providing a more secure system for our users. Implementing these measures at the application server layer will further strengthen the application security firewall.
For more information on securing your WebLogic system, you can refer to the official Oracle documentation.
