Server hardening refers to the actions performed to reduce the server OS and application attack surface. this is done by changing the default configurations of the system’s components (servers, applications, etc.) and removing unnecessary components. Out of the box, Server OS are more function-oriented rather than for security, which means that unnecessary functions are enabled. Default, insecure configurations reflect a potential attack vector.

Operating system (OS) hardening, a facet of system hardening, involves the implementation of security measures of operating systems like Windows, Linux, or macOS (aka OS X) to bolster their defenses against cyberattacks. The primary aim is to fortify sensitive computing systems, thereby reducing their vulnerability to various security threats, including data breaches, unauthorized access, system intrusions, and malware in accordance with best security practices.

The Center for Internet Security (CIS) published an updated version for the CIS Controls- CIS Controls v8. The CIS Controls are a set of gold standard guidelines for organizations facing data security issues. These controls were developed to simplify and help IT ops and security teams to remain focused on the essentials. The CIS updates its recommendation according to changes and new discoveries in the Information Security field. The 8th version of the CIS Controls was published in May 2021.

Open-source cybersecurity tools offer a prime solution for independent security experts, emerging businesses, and even medium to large enterprises aiming to tailor their security framework. These tools serve as a foundational platform for fostering security advancements, integrating proprietary software code and security automation scripts.

CIS IIS 10 Benchmark provides prescriptive guidance for establishing a secure configuration posture for Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) version 10. The benchmark provides guidance for establishing a secure configuration posture for IIS version 10. The benchmark is divided into two levels of security controls: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 provides a set of fundamental security measures that can be implemented with little or no impact on service availability.

IIS server, Microsoft’s Windows web server is one of the most used web server platforms on the internet. IIS 10 hardening according to the IIS CIS benchmarks is essential for preventing cyber-attacks and achieving CIS compliance. Common breaches happen by using IIS unsecured server protocols and configurations, such as SMB and TLS/SSL. The IIS default configurations is not recommended to use and should be changed to meet the IIS CIS benchmarks requirements.

The cybersecurity landscape is witnessing a phenomenon that has come to be known as the “Great Resignation” among Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). The challenges faced by CISOs in coping with ever-increasing regulations, compliance mandates, and the need for skilled resources have reached a tipping point. Coupled with a lack of cooperation from the C-suite, these factors have led to a surge in burnout among CISOs.

We recently engaged in a conversation with our team of experts regarding their ongoing server hardening project. We inquired about the obstacles encountered during manual hardening procedures and asked if they’d be willing to explain the underlying reasons for issues that arise when automation is not employed. Their latest encounter with a client provided a valuable opportunity to further expound on strategies to mitigate these challenges.