Hardening Techniques for Servers and Devices

System Hardening Overview

• Refers to securing the operating system of devices like servers.
• Applies to various OS: Windows, Linux, macOS, etc.

Key Hardening Steps

1. Apply Security Updates

• Regular updates and patches (e.g., monthly by Microsoft).

2. User Account Security

• Enforce password policies:
  • Minimum length (e.g., 8 characters).
  • Complexity requirements (uppercase, lowercase, numbers, special characters).
• Limit user account permissions to necessary rights.

3. Network Access Control

• Restrict access based on IP address ranges.

4. Use of Antivirus/Anti-Malware

• Regular monitoring and securing the system.

5. Data Encryption

• File encryption (e.g., Windows Encrypting File System, EFS).
• Full Disk Encryption (FDE) with tools like Windows BitLocker or macOS FileVault.
• Network traffic encryption using VPNs or HTTPS.

Individual User Endpoint Hardening

• Protect against inbound attacks and malware spread.
• Security for different devices: desktops, laptops, tablets, mobile phones.

Defense in Depth

• Use multiple security tools and utilities.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

• Next-gen malware detection beyond traditional signatures.
• Incorporates behavioral analysis and machine learning.
• Capable of root cause analysis and automated threat response.

Host-Based Firewall

• Software-based, runs on OS, manages inbound/outbound traffic.

Host-Based Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS)

• Built into EDR/anti-malware software.
• Monitors for known vulnerabilities and secures application/OS configurations.

Port Management

• Close unnecessary ports to limit attack surfaces.
• Use tools like Nmap to scan open ports.

Configuration Management

• Change default settings on new devices and software.
• Use multi-factor authentication and centralized authentication.

Application Management

• Delete unused applications to minimize security risks.
• Manage and update remaining applications regularly.