Server Hardening
Server hardening is a security practice that involves configuring and securing a server to reduce its attack surface and vulnerabilities. It includes applying security policies, disabling unnecessary services, updating software, and implementing access controls to protect against unauthorized access and cyber threats. This process is essential for maintaining the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of server resources in production environments.
Developers should learn server hardening to secure applications and infrastructure, especially when deploying to cloud or on-premises servers, as it helps prevent data breaches, malware infections, and compliance violations. It is critical in industries like finance, healthcare, and e-commerce where sensitive data is handled, and is often required for meeting standards such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, or GDPR. Implementing hardening ensures servers are resilient against common attacks like brute force, DDoS, or exploitation of known vulnerabilities.