Description: A hardened environment refers to an operating system or IT infrastructure that has been configured and adjusted to minimize vulnerabilities and maximize security. This is achieved through the implementation of various security measures, such as disabling unnecessary services, applying security patches, enforcing strict access policies, and using monitoring tools. The primary goal of a hardened environment is to protect systems against malicious attacks, intrusions, and other cyber threats. This approach is especially relevant in environments where security is critical, such as servers handling sensitive data or systems operating on networks exposed to the Internet. Creating a hardened environment involves a thorough risk analysis and the implementation of security controls tailored to the specific needs of the organization. Additionally, it is considered a best practice in system administration, as it helps ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of information.
History: The concept of a hardened environment began to gain relevance in the 1990s as cyber threats became more sophisticated. With the increase in Internet connectivity and the proliferation of malware, organizations began to recognize the need to protect their systems more effectively. In 1999, the United States Department of Defense published the ‘Security Technical Implementation Guides’ (STIGs), which provided guidelines for hardening operating systems and applications. Since then, the hardening of environments has become a standard practice in cybersecurity, adopted by various industries to protect critical data.
Uses: Hardened environments are primarily used in the management of servers, networks, and critical systems where security is paramount. They are applied in government organizations, financial institutions, healthcare companies, and any entity that handles sensitive information. Additionally, they are used in the implementation of cloud applications and in the creation of IT infrastructures that require a high level of protection against cyber attacks. Hardening practices are also essential in the development of secure software, where the goal is to minimize vulnerabilities from the design phase.
Examples: An example of a hardened environment is the use of SELinux (Security-Enhanced Linux), which provides a mandatory access control framework to enhance the security of Linux systems. Another example is Tails OS, an operating system designed for privacy and anonymity, which runs from a USB and leaves no traces on the device used. Both examples illustrate how hardening measures can be implemented to protect information and systems from external threats.
