Secure an Nginx site on an Ubuntu VPS by installing a NAXSI module that matches your Nginx build, loading NAXSI’s core rules in http{}, defining a denied-request endpoint in server{}, and enabling the firewall in each protected location{}. Run it in learning mode first, review real requests, add narrow whitelist rules, then switch to blocking mode and monitor the error log.
Need a server to try this on? Antihost offers Linux VPS plans with NVMe storage, full root access and a 14-day free trial.
What NAXSI is and where it sits
NAXSI is an open-source web application firewall implemented as an Nginx module. It runs inside the Nginx process, not as a separate reverse proxy or a second daemon. Nginx receives the request, NAXSI evaluates it, and the request is either passed to your application or sent to the denied URL.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
The project describes NAXSI as a high-performance WAF with low rule-maintenance requirements. Its model is different from a long list of fixed signatures: scores are assigned to suspicious patterns, and administrators explicitly allow legitimate application behavior with whitelist rules. NAXSI therefore behaves as a drop-by-default firewall. A new search parameter, upload endpoint, API payload, or unusual URL can be rejected until it has been whitelisted.
NAXSI is location-scoped. You can protect /admin/ with strict rules, leave a static-assets location untouched, and give an API location its own thresholds and whitelists. The module is configured in three Nginx contexts:
#1 Best Overall
- BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING GLASSES: Our blue light glasses for women boast UV400 protection, blocking harmful blue rays from computer screens. With these bluelight glasses women, you can enjoy gaming, reading, or watching TV with no worries of eye strain.
- EYE RELIEF: Our blue light glasses are engineered to reduce blurry vision or strain caused by prolonged screen time. These womens blue light glasses aid in better sleep by preventing blue light from disrupting your natural sleep cycle, helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night's sleep, making them the perfect christmas present.
- COMFORTABLE: Crafted from durable material, our trendy blue light glasses for woman or blue light glasses men ensure long-lasting comfort. The high-transmittance lenses accessories, gamer gifts for men, help keep your eyes relaxed. Perfect stocking stuffers, gifts for gamers men, christmas gifts for men, halloween costumes.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: These clear blue light glasses feature a lightweight frame, meaning they’ll stay comfy for long-term wear. Perfect as blue blockers glasses for women or mens blue light glasses, these non-prescription fake glasses for men can be worn throughout the day. The blue light blocking glasses women feature polycarbonate HD lenses, which are anti-reflective and restore true color.
- WORRY-FREE PURCHASE: If you experience any issues, our support team is ready to assist you quickly. These are the perfect costume glasses for cosplay dressing up.
| Nginx context | What belongs there |
|---|---|
http{} |
Load NAXSI’s core rule definitions, and optionally define logging formats. |
server{} |
Set dynamic modifiers such as the denied-request URL and define the virtual host. |
location{} |
Enable NAXSI, select learning or block mode, add whitelists, set CheckRule thresholds, and handle the request. |
Prerequisites and a safe change window
- An Ubuntu VPS with a working Nginx virtual host.
- Administrative access through
sudoor a root shell. - A tested backup of
/etc/nginxand your site configuration. - A way to exercise normal site behavior: browser sessions, API calls, uploads, logins, and any scheduled requests.
- A maintenance window for installing a module and reloading Nginx.
Do not start in blocking mode on a busy production site. Learning mode is designed to reveal what your application actually sends and receives; it is not a substitute for reviewing those events.
Confirm the Nginx build before installing NAXSI
A NAXSI binary module must match the Nginx version and build ABI that loads it. Check both the version and configure arguments:
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →nginx -v
nginx -V 2>&1Record the version shown by nginx -v and the complete configure arguments line from nginx -V. If Nginx came from Ubuntu’s repository, use a NAXSI package built for that repository version whenever one is available. Do not copy a module compiled for a different distribution, a different major Nginx release, or a custom build with incompatible options.
Back up the active configuration and check the current state before changing it:
sudo cp -a /etc/nginx /etc/nginx.backup.$(date +%Y%m%d-%H%M%S)
sudo nginx -tThe test should succeed before you install or load anything. If it already fails, fix that unrelated error first.
Install a compatible NAXSI module
Use an Ubuntu package when it exists
Ubuntu and Debian-family repositories may provide NAXSI as a dynamic Nginx module. Search the package index for the module rather than assuming every Ubuntu release carries it:
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- WINDEX GAMING WIPES: effortlessly clean all your gaming gear and gaming electronics in one easy step with our new Windex Gaming Wipes
- AMMONIA FREE: our ammonia-free formula is safe to use on all of your favorite gaming equipment like consoles, headsets, controllers, screens, keyboards, and more
- PRE-MOISTENED WIPES: each wipe instantly removes dust, dirt, and stubborn smudges and fingerprints leaving a streak-free shine
- ANTI-STATIC: great for cleaning and wiping down your gaming gear and electronics leaving behind no visible residue
- COMPACT RESEALABLE PACKAGE: store your pack of Windex Gaming Wipes anywhere in your home for whenever a quick and easy wipedown is needed
sudo apt update
apt-cache search naxsiOn releases that provide it, the package is commonly named libnginx-mod-http-naxsi; the exact availability and package name depend on the Ubuntu release and the Nginx package source. Install the module and its rule files from the same source as Nginx:
sudo apt install libnginx-mod-http-naxsiAfter installation, inspect /etc/nginx/modules-enabled/. Debian-style packages normally install an automatically included module-load file there. If your installation does not, load the shared object once at the top level of nginx.conf, before events{}, using the path supplied by the package:
load_module modules/ngx_http_naxsi_module.so;Do not add a second load_module line if the package already enables one. Loading the same module twice causes an error.
Build a dynamic module when no package matches
If your Ubuntu release has no compatible package, compile NAXSI as a dynamic module against the exact Nginx source version installed on the VPS. Install the compiler and the Nginx build dependencies, obtain the matching Nginx source package, and obtain the NAXSI source tree. Configure the Nginx source with the same options shown by nginx -V, adding NAXSI’s dynamic-module option, then build only the modules and install the resulting ngx_http_naxsi_module.so into the Nginx modules directory.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The important compatibility rules are:
- Use the same Nginx version, compiler ABI, and configure options as the running binary.
- Build against the NAXSI source revision documented for that Nginx release.
- Install the module where this Nginx build searches for modules, then load it exactly once.
- Run
nginx -tbefore every reload; an “undefined symbol,” “module is not binary compatible,” or similar message means the module does not match the running build.
Because Ubuntu package contents and paths vary by release, use the package’s own module path and rule-file locations rather than copying paths from another server.
Understand the rule files supplied by Debian and Ubuntu packages
When the distribution package is installed, the standard files are:
Rank #3
- Ergonomic & Adjustable Design: Fight "text neck" and improve your posture. Designed for comfort, it offers an adjustable height (7.1in-8.5in) (1.4in adjustable range) and angle (5°-85°) Please note: cell phone stand is only 9 inches tall—the length of a standard pencil
- Without blocking subtitles Perfect for office desk Tiktok Face Time Zoom video—this is the ultimate kitchen desk essential for phones! Perfect viewing experience while reducing neck back strain, A must-have for gamers streamers desk, and anyone who values both style and support!
- Sleek & Stable Design fits Otterbox Case: Say goodbye to bent cables, tangles, and tip-overs! LISEN’s stylish adjustable desk phone holder features a built-in charging hole and smart cable management, keeping your phone secure and your workspace clutter-free cool gadgets for men
- ANTI-SLIP DESIGN free hands: The under 10.00 items easy gadgets back and the bottom of this kitchen essentials for women are fully covered by anti-skid silicone, which LISEN stand up desk decor can provide maximum protection device from any scratches and slides
- Your Perfect Viewing Companion:If your product arrives damaged or breaks within 365 days, reach out to LISEN for a quick and hassle-free solution. Struggling with assembly, like tightening the screw? We’ve got your back! Your experience matters to us. (Product including: phone Holder stand*1, screw*1, hexagon screwdriver*1, specification*1)
/usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_core.rules— the core detection rules./usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_denied_url.conf— a packaged denied-request configuration that you may include or adapt./usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_learning_mode.conf— learning-mode CheckRules./usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_block_mode.conf— block-mode CheckRules.
Package layouts can differ, so verify that each file exists before adding an include. Never include both the learning-mode and block-mode files in one protected location.
Create the initial learning-mode configuration
The following pattern shows the required placement. Adapt the listen address, server name, upstream, and static-file paths to your site.
load_module modules/ngx_http_naxsi_module.so;
events {}
http {
include /usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_core.rules;
include /etc/nginx/mime.types;
default_type application/octet-stream;
server {
listen 80;
server_name example.net;
# NAXSI sends rejected requests here.
DeniedUrl "/RequestDenied";
location = /RequestDenied {
internal;
return 403;
}
location / {
SecRulesEnabled;
LearningMode;
include /usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_learning_mode.conf;
proxy_pass http://127.0.0.1:8080;
}
}
}naxsi_core.rules is included once in http{}. The DeniedUrl is defined at the virtual-server level, and the exact-match location returns a controlled 403 response. Marking that endpoint internal prevents visitors from using it as a normal public page. NAXSI is enabled only in the application location with SecRulesEnabled.
If your site has several protected locations, repeat the enablement and mode include in each one. A location without SecRulesEnabled is not protected merely because another location is.
Validate, reload, and verify that learning mode is active
- Check the complete configuration:
sudo nginx -t. - If the test succeeds, reload without dropping existing connections:
sudo systemctl reload nginx. - Confirm the service remains active:
sudo systemctl status nginx --no-pager. - Request an ordinary page, log in, submit forms, call each API route, upload representative files, and exercise redirects and error pages.
- Watch the Nginx error log while reproducing those actions:
sudo tail -f /var/log/nginx/error.log.
NAXSI learning events identify the URL, request component, and detection vectors that would have contributed to a block. Keep the log level high enough to see these events, but avoid leaving an excessively verbose level enabled permanently on a high-traffic server.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsTurn learning events into narrow whitelist rules
Learning mode records legitimate traffic that matches suspicious patterns; it does not automatically make a permanent exception. Review each event against the application code and decide whether the behavior is expected. NAXSI’s own documentation warns that simple patterns can also occur in valid queries, so broad exceptions can undo the protection.
Rank #4
- Easy Installation: Our gaming lights have been designed to enhance your entertainment experience. Simply position the led light bar next to your TV or game console to create a game room environment with ease. They come with USB power and a 60 inch cord for direct mounting and mobility
- Audio Syncing & Extensive Mode: The built-in high-sensitivity music sensor allows you to sync the TV led lights to your favorite music. Lights react and move to the beat of music, film and game audio, creating an incredible immersive sound and light experience – and all without the need for an additional hub. You can choose from 64+ patterns, including strobe, illusion, jump, energy, gradient, running, chasing, fluttering mode etc. Each mode can be applied to different scenes
- 64+ Chasing IC+RGB & W Effect: The independent control design of IC+RGB and white all-in-one multifunctional rgbw led bar lights monitor backlight allows you to easily switch the led lights for desk between IC+RGB and white to enjoy a variety of lighting effects, you can choose white lighting mode with high brightness for better illumination when working, etc. Choose IC+RGB lighting mode when you need to create an entertaining atmosphere for the light show, 16 million colours of Color changing rgb light bar let you dance to the beat and create a dynamic party atmosphere
- Dynamic and Dimmable Lights: 1%-full brightness free brightness adjustment gives you the flexibility to adjust dimmable led light bar for room decorations or a variety of occasions
- USB Powered: USB light bars for room can be powered by powernank, usb charger, TV, Monitor, laptop PC mainframe, making behind TV led lighting bar easy to install in any location.TV led lights are powered by the TV usb interface / PC mainframe, can be turned on/off synchronously with TV / PC
Whitelist the smallest matching scope
Use a rule that names the exact URL and, where possible, the exact argument or request component. For example, a search parameter that legitimately contains punctuation could use a narrowly scoped rule:
BasicRule wl:1000 "mz:$URL:/search|$ARGS_VAR:q";The numeric identifier is an administrator-chosen rule ID. Keep IDs unique and comment every exception with the application behavior it permits. A URL-wide whitelist is broader than an argument-specific whitelist; an entire location-wide exception is broader still.
Review before deploying each exception
- Confirm the request is generated by your application or an authorized client.
- Check whether the same behavior can be expressed with a narrower URL, argument, header, or upload rule.
- Do not whitelist an entire attack vector just because one request was valid.
- Retest the legitimate action after adding the rule and verify that unrelated suspicious requests still generate events.
- Keep the whitelist in version-controlled configuration so a later package update does not erase your reasoning.
Continue exercising uncommon but valid paths, including password resets, rich-text fields, JSON bodies, file uploads, webhooks, and administrator tools. These are frequent sources of false positives because their input is intentionally complex.
Recommended Free Tools
Move from learning mode to blocking mode
Switch only after normal traffic has been reviewed and the remaining events are understood. Replace the learning include with the block include in each protected location:
location / {
SecRulesEnabled;
include /usr/share/naxsi/naxsi_block_mode.conf;
# Keep reviewed BasicRule whitelist entries here or in an included file.
proxy_pass http://127.0.0.1:8080;
}Remove the LearningMode; directive and do not include naxsi_learning_mode.conf in the same location. Keep naxsi_core.rules in http{} and keep the denied endpoint in server{}. Test and reload again:
sudo nginx -t
sudo systemctl reload nginxAfter the reload, monitor both application errors and Nginx’s error log. A legitimate request sent to the denied URL is a tuning signal: identify the precise request component, add the narrowest safe whitelist, test it, and reload during a controlled window.
Best Value
- Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
- Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
- Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
- Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
- Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.
Choose and document CheckRule thresholds
NAXSI’s scoring system tracks vectors such as SQL injection, remote file inclusion, directory traversal, file upload, and cross-site scripting. The packaged mode files provide a starting policy. NAXSI documentation gives these example thresholds:
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minute| Vector | Example blocking threshold | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
$SQL |
>= 8 |
Starting example, not a universal safe value. |
$RFI |
>= 8 |
Review against any feature that accepts remote resource references. |
$TRAVERSAL |
>= 5 |
Check file browsers, downloads, and path parameters for valid traversal-like syntax. |
$UPLOAD |
>= 5 |
Test every supported file type and multipart field before enforcing. |
$XSS |
>= 8 |
Exercise rich-text and templating inputs that may contain markup. |
These values are examples to review for your application, not a guarantee of safe detection or a measured security improvement. Keep threshold changes documented with the traffic that justified them. There is no authoritative deployment benchmark that supports promising a particular blocked-attack percentage, false-positive rate, or throughput gain.
Use different policies for different locations
Because NAXSI is location-scoped, separate policy decisions by URL rather than weakening the whole server. For example:
- Protect
/admin/and authenticated API routes with blocking mode and reviewed, route-specific whitelists. - Run a newly deployed API location in learning mode while its request schema is still changing.
- Leave static assets outside NAXSI if they never reach application code, while ensuring that an overlapping broader location does not accidentally bypass protection.
- Give upload endpoints their own review because valid multipart content can trigger upload or traversal scores.
Check Nginx’s location-selection rules when testing. A request can be handled by an exact, prefix, or regular-expression location different from the one you edited.
Troubleshooting common failures
| Symptom | Likely cause | Recovery |
|---|---|---|
unknown directive "SecRulesEnabled" |
The NAXSI module is not loaded, or the request is using a different Nginx binary. | Check nginx -V, confirm the module-load file or load_module line, and run nginx -t. |
| Module is “not binary compatible” | The dynamic module was built for another Nginx version or configure set. | Install a matching package or rebuild against the exact running source and options. |
| Include file not found | The package is absent or stores rule files elsewhere on this Ubuntu release. | Use dpkg -L on the installed NAXSI package to locate the files, then update the include paths. |
| Every request is denied after enabling block mode | Learning review was incomplete, a whitelist is too narrow, or thresholds are too aggressive for this application. | Inspect the NAXSI event, reproduce the request in learning mode if necessary, and add only a justified narrow whitelist or adjust the relevant CheckRule. |
| The denied URL loops or returns the application page | The endpoint is caught by the protected catch-all location or is not marked internal. | Use an exact-match location = /RequestDenied before the proxy behavior and return a direct 403. |
| One URL is protected while another is not | SecRulesEnabled exists only in a different location. |
Map the request to its actual Nginx location and enable NAXSI there. |
Operational checklist
- Record the Nginx version and module source used on the server.
- Keep
naxsi_core.rules, mode files, and custom whitelists under configuration management. - Run
nginx -tbefore every reload and after every package upgrade. - Repeat representative application tests after Nginx or NAXSI updates.
- Review denied requests and learning events for both false positives and unexpected probing.
- Keep the denied endpoint non-public and return a generic response that does not disclose rule details.
- Revisit whitelists when routes, parameters, upload types, or authentication flows change.
With those controls in place, NAXSI adds request filtering directly to Nginx while preserving per-location policy. The reliable deployment path is compatibility first, learning and review second, blocking third, followed by continuous log-led tuning.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
