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I'm about to open a dedicated server for a game called Minecraft. The server is running Windows Server 2008 R2. The problem is, I don't know whether or not I should install an antivirus on it. No one will have access to it besides me and I won't be downloading anything on it, nor will there be any file transfers. Is an antivirus still required?

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Install it!

If your server is facing the internet and people can access it (to play the game), it means that 1 or more ports are open; it is therefore accessible to the outside world and 'open' to attack.

Ensure you have a good firewall and I would still recommend an AV!

EDIT

I have used ClamAV and it worked fine (and it is free) - I used it to monitor my all in one mail/web server. As it's free though don't expect the world (although you can pay for it for more features). It may be worth while starting with a free AV and seeing how you go, although my money would go straight on Kaspersky from the word go!

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    +1. If it is connected to the Internet and thus to lots of potential abusers: Keep it up to date. Use a firewall. Use a virus scanner.
    – Hennes
    Dec 21, 2012 at 10:15
  • Can you clarify exactly what purpose an antivirus would serve (considering the OP specified there will be no file uploads/downloads)?
    – Indrek
    Dec 21, 2012 at 10:16
  • @Indrek - I think you raise a good point, may be I'm just following best practices! If some one can get on then the other server then they could do anything (which could also include turning off the AV I must admit); However, if OP is hosting then files will be written /installed (eg the game needs to be installed) then it means files are being installed and IMO (no offence to OP) that the OP may not have realized what will be required. Further more, if the server is in a datacenter, it is on a network with other machines; I agree it should be locked down, but a network is exploitable!
    – Dave
    Dec 21, 2012 at 10:21
  • All files will be scanned and tested on my PC Before being uploaded
    – Patrick
    Dec 21, 2012 at 10:46
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    While Indrek has a decent point if your virus scanner is a plain virus scanner I still recommend installing it, updating it and doing an automated (daily/weekly) scan. I agree nothing bad should get onto the server. I've also seen reality.
    – Hennes
    Dec 21, 2012 at 11:09

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