Description: A hardened application is one that has been designed and configured to minimize its attack surface by removing unnecessary features and applying best security practices. This approach aims to protect the application against vulnerabilities and threats, ensuring that only essential functions are available and that robust security controls are implemented. Hardened applications often include advanced security configurations such as multi-factor authentication, data encryption, and continuous monitoring. This process not only enhances the application’s security but also contributes to user trust and data integrity. In a networked environment, where applications are accessible over the Internet, the need to harden them becomes even more critical, as threats can come from various sources. The hardened application becomes an essential component of security posture management, helping organizations comply with regulations and security standards while effectively protecting their digital assets.