Key Points from the Lecture on Operating System Hardening

Introduction to System Hardening

• Default configurations of operating systems are not secure.
• Additional configurations are often required to enhance security.

Hardening Guides

• Manufacturers often provide hardening guides specific to their applications or operating systems.
• If a hardening guide is unavailable, it may be useful to:
  • Contact the manufacturer.
  • Explore online message boards for third-party security hardening guides.

Mobile Device Hardening

• Mobile devices must be hardened to ensure security.
• Manufacturers provide guides and patches for security updates and bug fixes.
• Segmenting data on mobile devices is a common technique:
  • Separate company data from user data.
  • Limits access if one segment is compromised.
• Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools can monitor devices and push security updates.

Workstation Hardening

• Workstations running Windows, Mac OS, Linux, etc., require hardening.
• Periodic updates include bug fixes and security patches.
• Remove unused software to eliminate vulnerability risks.

Network Infrastructure Hardening

• Network devices like switches, routers, and firewalls require security hardening.
• Default credentials should be changed, and authentication should be configured.
• Check with manufacturers for available patches.

Cloud Management and Security

• Centralized Cloud management workstations have complete access to cloud systems:
  • Must be securely hardened.
  • Least privilege principle should be applied.
  • Install Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) for monitoring attacks.
  • Regular backups, preferably with a separate cloud provider.

Server Hardening

• Servers running Windows, Linux, etc., must be updated with security patches.
• Implement strong authentication processes and least privilege access.
• Restrict server access to necessary devices only.

Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA

• ICS/SCADA systems control industrial equipment and require high security.
• Often air-gapped from the main network for isolation.

Embedded Systems and IoT

• Embedded systems in devices like TVs and appliances can be difficult to update.
• Important to install security patches when available.
• Consider network segmentation and firewall protection.
• IoT devices should prioritize security patches and may need network segmentation to limit vulnerabilities.