Hardening
Hardening is the process of making computer systems and networks more secure by reducing their vulnerability to attacks. Think of it like adding extra locks and security systems to a house. When someone says they do "hardening," they're talking about strengthening the security of computers, servers, or networks by removing unnecessary programs, closing unused access points, and setting up strong security rules. It's similar to how a bank would secure its vault with multiple layers of protection. This is a fundamental practice in cybersecurity and is often mentioned along with terms like "system security" or "security configuration."
Examples in Resumes
Implemented Hardening procedures across 200+ corporate servers
Led System Hardening projects for critical infrastructure
Developed Security Hardening guidelines for cloud environments
Performed OS Hardening on Windows and Linux systems
Typical job title: "Security Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Security Engineers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you develop a system hardening strategy for a large organization?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating comprehensive security policies, implementing standardized hardening procedures, considering business needs, and methods for tracking and maintaining security across many systems.
Q: How do you stay current with security vulnerabilities and hardening best practices?
Expected Answer: Should mention following security advisories, participating in professional networks, continuous learning, and how they evaluate and implement new security measures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps would you take to harden a new server?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic steps like removing unnecessary services, updating software, configuring firewalls, setting up proper access controls, and implementing security policies.
Q: How do you verify that hardening measures are working effectively?
Expected Answer: Should discuss security testing methods, monitoring tools, regular security assessments, and ways to measure the effectiveness of security controls.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is system hardening and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should explain that hardening makes systems more secure by reducing vulnerabilities, and be able to give basic examples like password policies and removing unused software.
Q: What are some basic hardening measures you're familiar with?
Expected Answer: Should mention fundamental security practices like strong passwords, regular updates, disabling unnecessary services, and basic firewall configuration.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic security configurations
- Following hardening checklists
- System updates and patches
- Basic firewall configuration
Mid (2-5 years)
- Creating hardening procedures
- Security policy implementation
- Vulnerability assessment
- Automated security tools
Senior (5+ years)
- Enterprise security architecture
- Advanced threat protection
- Security strategy development
- Team leadership and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic security principles
- Unfamiliarity with common security tools and standards
- No experience with different operating systems
- Lack of understanding about compliance requirements
- No experience with security documentation
Related Terms
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