Short definition: Standardized secure configurations for systems and cloud services.
1 min read
What it is
Hardening baselines define minimum configurations-disabling unused services, enforcing encryption, setting strong defaults, and reducing attack surface.
Why it matters
Default settings expose unnecessary ports, services, and privileges. Hardening ensures consistency and reduces exploitable weaknesses.
How to reduce risk
- Apply CIS Benchmarks
- Remove unused software
- Enforce least privilege
- Encrypt data
- Audit systems against baselines
- Automate with IaC policies
Related Terms
- Least Privilege
- SSH (Port 22)
- Cloud Misconfiguration