Boyle and Panko Chapter 7 deals with the topic of host hardening. Differently from physical security, much of the host hardening systems analyzed in this chapter deal with ensuring server security in back-end processes and making sure that operating systems and organizations are secured against access to their systems and databases. A takeaway I had from this chapter was how much goes on behind the scenes away from the prying eyes of a standard user to ensure that organizations and their users are able to use and access necessary systems. Processes like image virtualization, host backups, password hardening and protocols, update automation and other systems all contribute to create a secure environment. Having worked in these backgrounds before, I can respect how much the average user doesn’t see and understand how much work goes into keeping an organization running. Ensuring a safe and secure environment is of paramount importance, and a lot of effort goes on behind the scenes to ensure that systems are made safe from intrusion and attack
Absolutely Andrew, Chapter 7 emphasizes host hardening, focusing on securing servers and back-end processes. It highlights the extensive measures, including image virtualization, backups, password protocols, and update automation, essential for ensuring organizational security. The chapter underscores the significant effort needed to maintain a secure environment away from users’ view.
Truly, this chapter provides an insightful perspective on host hardening, emphasizing its crucial role in server security and back-end processes. Unlike physical security, host hardening focuses on safeguarding operating systems and organizations from unauthorized system and database access. This chapter underscores the extensive behind-the-scenes work involved in ensuring secure system functionality, such as image virtualization, host backups, password hardening, update automation, and other protocols. As someone with experience in these areas, I can attest to the unseen efforts put into maintaining organizational security. Consequently, ensuring a safe and secure environment is of utmost importance, requiring continuous efforts to protect systems from intrusion and attack.
Indeed, this chapter sheds light on the criticality of host hardening in bolstering server security and backend processes. Unlike physical security, host hardening focuses on fortifying operating systems and databases against unauthorized access. The chapter underscores the meticulous work involved in maintaining secure system functionality, from image virtualization to password hardening and update automation. As someone familiar with these practices, I recognize the unseen efforts required to uphold organizational security. Thus, prioritizing a safe environment necessitates ongoing vigilance to safeguard systems from intrusion and attack.
Like you pointed out, how much is involved in the background by ensuring server security, it also reminded me of how much more I still have to learn on the cyber end and also what was a something I learned about twenty years ago. I remember when I used to volunteer configuring PCs for incoming students in my IT school years ago. Imaging was a new thing but made it so more efficient and time saving to get virtual drives up and running. Some of the topics covered this week was a review but others that I never hard of before.
Summarizing Boyle and Penko chapter 7 goes thus: hosts, encompassing devices with IP addresses, are crucial for defense against attacks. Hardening all hosts, including servers, routers, and client PCs, is essential as compromised clients can breach defenses. Hardening involves diverse protections to mitigate risks during attacks, typically following security baselines for the host’s OS version. This chapter also gave some clarity on UNIX and Window security. UNIX hardening specifics vary, while Windows servers utilize GUIs like Microsoft Management Consoles for security management. Patch management servers automate patch deployment, crucial for mitigating vulnerabilities. Windows Server versions manage user accounts and permissions meticulously, while UNIX offers simpler permission structures. Regardless of OS, intelligently structuring directory permissions and utilizing group permissions can streamline security management and minimize errors.
HI ikenna,
Like you rightly said, chapter 7 provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of hosts in defending against cyber attacks. These encompass devices with IP addresses, including servers, routers, and client PCs, all of which require hardening – a process involving various protections to mitigate risks during attacks. The chapter elucidates UNIX and Windows security, highlighting the differences in hardening specifics and permission structures. Additionally, it emphasizes the use of patch management servers and the intelligent structuring of directory permissions to minimize errors and streamline security management. This summary underscores the chapter’s key focus on robust and meticulous security measures.
This chapter brought back memories of me MCSE days and also brought new information into it as well. When you went over the UNIX part it reminded me of how we would virtually log into a Linux server across the country for school and that was a huge deal at the time. Now I think about it, it was a huge deal just to be able to navigate through a Linux machine as opposite of Windows and how you pointed out, there is now GUI and was commend based only. I assume that’s why the Internet runs on Linux as it is a lot harder OS to operate to the average user in my opinion.
Ikenna thank you for sharing, Your Analysis highlights key components discussed in this chapter. I agree with the point you made on patch management and having servers to automate the process. Patching systems and software can be challenging given the high number of vulnerabilities discovered in a year, Automation is key to ensure a more streamlined approach, this will facilitate a more efficient and organized approach to patching resources. Organizations need to establish comprehensive patch management strategies and conduct thorough testing to validate the efficiency of these plans.
Emphasizing group policy and permissions is a great point. These functions and systems assist greatly, especially in the area of segregation of duties. Making sure that access and privileges are tightly controlled and regulated assists in creating a secure environment for organizational services and preventing unauthorized access or damage to these systems from outside agitators or internal negligence
“Host Hardening”, provides an in-depth exploration of the various strategies and procedures employed to enhance the security of a system or network. The concept of host hardening, as delineated in the chapter, is a crucial aspect of information security that seeks to reduce vulnerabilities in systems and prevent unauthorized access.
The chapter emphasizes the importance of regular system updates, which serve as the first line of defense against potential threats. These updates often contain patches for known vulnerabilities, thereby enhancing the system’s resilience against attacks.
Moreover, the chapter discusses the role of system configuration in host hardening. By minimizing the number of active services and applications, the attack surface is significantly reduced. This approach, commonly referred to as the principle of least privilege, ensures that only necessary permissions are granted, limiting potential entry points for attackers.
Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) are also highlighted as vital components of host hardening. These systems monitor network traffic and alert administrators about suspicious activities, enabling prompt response to potential threats.
In conclusion, Boyle and Panko’s Chapter 7 offers a comprehensive guide to host hardening, emphasizing the importance of regular updates, appropriate system configuration, and effective use of IDPS in enhancing system security.
Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) like you pointed are vital in host hardening but is also something I have yet been able to work on and would love to be able to sit down and see these in real time. When I had network security twenty years ago in school, I don’t remember going over IDPS but then again, Cloud Services were not really a thing yet either. This host hardening chapter was a review and brought back a lot of information that I covered years ago in IT school.
I like reading the “In the News” portion of every chapter. While both stories are interesting, the story of D-Link shipping out equipment with known weaknesses is just so irresponsible. Them settling the lawsuit by having to perform 20 years of audits is mind blowing.
I have always had an interest in permissions and how they work. Permission is determined what a user can and cannot do. Simply put permissions determine what the user or group can see and what is hidden in terms of files, folders, and directories. This section also details how to add users and groups and as well as advanced security permissions.
Hi Erskine,
On your second paragraph. The concept of ‘permission’ as introduced by you brings to mind the role of tripple ‘A’. in access control. Permission in this context can be likened to ‘authorization’ more like the scope or limit to which you can operate in such given domain.
Jeffrey Sullivan
MIS 5214
Week 9
Temple University
The section on virtualization stood out for me the most in the chapter about host hardening. The amount of time saved by using this method really makes sense when you are managing a big department or corporation’s IT. Virtualization has several benefits in the host hardening process. Once, it lets system admins create a baseline for each server or client within the organization. That machine can then be cloned from an existing hardened virtual machine in a few minutes vs hours or days. Redundancy also comes to mind here when I think of the benefits of virtualization. For example, in the event of an attack, if one of your clients goes down, you already have a virtual backup of the machine, so the downtime is minimum. According to this week’s text, “Cloning hardened virtual machines minimizes the chance of incorrectly configuring a server, reduces the time needed to configure the servers, and eliminates the need to install applications, patches, or several packs. Labor costs and utilities are reduced by not using stationary physical machines and increases fault tolerance and availability.
I’ve never heard of the rainbow table before reading the chapter this week. Another way of cracking passwords is by looking up the hash of the password in a rainbow table. According to the text, “A rainbow table is a list of pre-computed password hashes that in indexed”. By creating a large table of possible passwords and indexing the hashes to expedite the cracking process. You then do a “time memory trade off”, which was new to me as well. This is where more memory is used to store the pre-computed password hashes, but the time it takes to crack a password is reduced. Also, with the link provided, it shows that a rainbow table is a precomputed table for reversing cryptographic hashes, It is a data structure that allows one to quickly reverse the process hashing to obtain the original value. Some advantages of rainbow tables are: Since everything is precomputed, the process is simplified into a simple search and compare operation on the table and reduces the time required by an attacker to brute force passwords. One of the disadvantages is the amount of storage needed for these large rainbow tables to make the attack more efficient.
Jeffrey, while true how you’ve explained rainbow tables and their role in password cracking shed light on a lesser-known aspect of cybersecurity. The concept of a rainbow table as a pre-computed list of password hashes indexed for faster cracking is fascinating. It’s cool to see how the “time memory trade-off” optimizes the process, using more memory to expedite password cracking. With this in mind, how do you think advancements in encryption and password protection techniques are evolving to counteract methods like rainbow tables, and what measures do you think are essential for staying ahead in password security?
The rainbow table detail was also fascinating to me. The way in which systems are secured is just as important to learning how they can be exploited or made less secure. Understanding the tools that bad actors may utilize to exploit or compromise a system is essential to making sure we as cybersecurity experts are able to effectively do our jobs and make sure that the systems we engage with are anticipating how attackers may attempt to exploit them and employing countermeasures to deter such activity
In chapter 7 ‘Host Hardening’ the author talks about the importance of securing networking devices such as routers, servers, IoT devices, and so on to reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. The first time I had hardening I thought it was one single process to follow but as the author explained in this chapter hardening involves a series of steps one has to follow to safeguard these devices effectively. These steps include physically securing devices from unauthorized access, backing up data regularly, installing the latest patches, and disabling unnecessary services. Because of the variation in operating systems or software and devices, it is good for companies to have a baseline for hardening as it helps to guide the technicians responsible for implementation, ensuring uniformity and minimizing oversights. Moreover, baseline facilitates patch testing by replicating the production environment in a test environment, allowing companies to verify that patches do not disrupt system functionalities before their deployment.
I always wondered why companies did not install patches and allowed attackers to exploit their environment but reading this chapter I got a picture of the practicality of patch management. It is hard for companies to install all patches as they become available due to different factors such as the number of applications used and the amount of patches getting released daily. This requires firms to have labor for it, and a test environment to test the patches to know that do not impact any functionalities. From reading this chapter I realized patch management is easier said than done and it requires a lot of preplanning to ensure the patching system in place works.
The author also underscores the argument made in Chapter 5 regarding access control, emphasizing the practicality of managing user groups over individual accounts. Applying patches to user groups streamlines the process and reduces the likelihood of errors, enhancing overall user management efficiency. Additionally, the principle of logging in as an administrator only when necessary helps mitigate security risks associated with excessive permissions.
The author also talked about Password complexity and delved into how password complexity helps to slow down some of the common attacks like brute force attacks or dictionary attacks. With the increasing computational power, such attacks become more feasible. During my penetration testing class, I was astonished by the number of open-source tools available for password and directory cracking, leveraging pre-defined password lists or directory files for efficient execution.
The author explored different ways to secure resources from exploitation, I think one key thing is conducting regular audits and compliance checks to ensure that host hardening measures are effectively implemented and maintained over time.
Mariam, this is a good summary of chapter 7. I totally agree with you that this chapter reinforces the significance of managing user groups over individual accounts for access control, streamlining the patch application process and reducing errors. It also delves into the importance of password complexity in slowing down common attacks like brute force or dictionary attacks, given the availability of open-source tools for password cracking.
Great Job Mariam,
Chapter 7 highlights the importance of host hardening to mitigate cyber-attacks, emphasizing a series of steps including physical security, regular data backups, patch management, and service disabling. Establishing baselines aids technicians in achieving uniformity and patch testing, recognizing the challenges of maintaining up-to-date patches across diverse environments. The practicalities of patch management, user group management, and password complexity are underscored, with an emphasis on minimizing security risks and streamlining processes. Regular audits and compliance checks are advocated to ensure ongoing effectiveness of host hardening measures.
This chapter talks about the concept of host hardening and started by defining a host as any device with an IP address. One of my major takeaways was the discussion on server operating systems, particularly focusing on Windows and Unix Servers. Windows Server has evolved over the years, with newer versions like Windows Server 2016 and 2019 offering enhanced security features. Despite improvements, regular patching is necessary to address security vulnerabilities. The user interface of Windows Server resembles that of client versions of Windows, making it user-friendly for administrators. Administrative tools are conveniently located in the Administrative Tools menu, facilitating system management. Windows Server Manager is a key tool for daily management, allowing administrators to add roles, features, and services and receive notifications about performance issues.
Unix hardening presents a challenge due to the variety of Unix versions available, each offering different systems administration and security tools. One uniformity in Unix is the use of command-line based security tools.
It also discusses the challenges of managing vulnerabilities and patches, the importance of prioritizing and testing patches, the flexibility of permissions assignment in Microsoft Windows Server, the importance of password, account, and audit policies, and the need for mobile device protection and centralized PC security management.
Hi Chidiebere,
You bring an excellent point regarding the need for newer versions and the difficulty of hardening Linux/Unix systems. As Microsoft is a proprietary OS, they release newer versions with associated changes including UI, general functionality, and security updates. As such, older versions become end-of-life and may not be supported. It’s better to use newer operating systems when available, but sometimes it’s not feasible when some software works only on certain OS’s. As for Linux/Unix, it makes it especially difficult to harden through only command-line. This is more so the case when moving from an OS like Windows to Linux and attempting to implement the same level of security when offered GUI compared to only CLI.
Host hardening is a method that should be used to secure an organization’s network. If the hosts on a network are hardened, it will be difficult for attackers to gain access to the network. The chapter discussed various ways to harden hosts such as frequent updates, password policies, group policies, and so on. The most important thing I learned from this reading is systems and data backups. It is also important to keep the backup systems/ data updated. By ensuring proper backup processes, organizations can mitigate the risk of data loss and ensure the availability and integrity of important information.
Host hardening is definitely a vital security measure for safeguarding organizational networks as you said and while implementing strategies like frequent updates and robust password policies indeed fortify defenses against potential attacks. The importance of systems and data backups, as highlighted in the chapter, cannot be be overstated enough, especially in ensuring data availability and integrity. Considering the evolving nature of our field how do you envision the role of backup strategies evolving? and are there any emerging technologies or practices you believe will significantly enhance data backup and recovery processes?
Hi Akintunde, I agree that host hardening is a crucial strategy for enhancing network security and making it challenging for attackers to infiltrate an organization’s network. The emphasis on systems and data backups as a key takeaway is very insightful, as it’s a fundamental aspect of a comprehensive security posture. Additionally, incorporating regular testing of these backups is equally important, ensuring that they can be reliably restored in the event of an incident, thereby not just preserving data integrity but also ensuring operational continuity.
This chapter provides an overview of secure hosts. According to the book, host hardening is the process of guarding against attacks. The protection elements support one another. Backups, vulnerability tests, log monitoring, encryption, users and groups, operating system vulnerability checks and patch installation, application and operating system service reduction, and physical access limitation are among the stated tasks.
Patch management and installation play an important role in protection. Patches may create some problems as vulnerabilities on hosts emerge and we use them to defend them. Unfortunately, patch installation decreases functionality and requires considerable time and personnel costs.
Hello Samuel, I agree that patch management and installation play a big role for protection. It’s not a coincidence that many of the breaches we learn about in this course would have been prevented had a patch just been installed. This doesn’t mean that we only focus on patches but rather, if we can simply acknowledge the basics, the rest will come with proper training and education. I do appreciate though that you mentioned by the end about the problems that come up when patches are installed. This is why it’s essential that companies have a solid cyber security department. Not only would they make sure proper patches are installed, but they would also be able to tackle the issues that come up patches.
Hi Samuel,
I agree that backups play a vital role in host hardening by preventing data loss, ensuring integrity, and providing a swift recovery after a security breach.
I appreciated 7.3 because it elaborated more on what initially seemed like a very simple topic for me, that being vulnerabilities and patches. Before reading, I wasn’t too aware of the term “work-around”. A work-around is when multiple manual steps are taken by the system administrator to lessen the impact of a problem. What was interesting to me is that during this, there isn’t new software or anything done through programming, rather, it is very labor intensive. Like the reading suggests, I imagine this method is very prone to failure. Especially considering it’s usually software that’s involved when it comes to solving issues on the computer. I wonder if there is any successful stories of work-arounds for a company. Even if there were to be, this would be a horrible go-to method as it could influence other team members to avoid using new software in different issues.
My favorite part of this chapter was 7.6 when it went in depth about creating strong passwords and how passwords are typically cracked. While yes, a password is most strong when its a long assortment of random uppercase and lowercase characters with random symbols and digits, the likelihood of someone actually memorizing that password is very low and if they just write it down somewhere insecure its all for naught and the password is even weaker than most. System administrators have to enforce such a thing however as its important to secure their systems by not allowing simple passwords or any other breaches as well as requiring frequent changing of passwords incase someone has grabbed it somehow like with a keylogger they can prevent further access and by regularly running password cracking against their own servers they can scold the appropriate parties not doing their part.
Alex, while complex passwords are ideal, they can be difficult to remember. System admins must balance security and usability. Multi-factor authentication and user awareness can strengthen defenses, even with less complex passwords.
I agree with you, Alex, Although passwords offer convenience and simplicity they come with so many challenges, as the author pointed out a password can meet all requirements however it might not be a good password because a user might not be able to memorize it, This often leads to insecure practices such as jotting it down on sticky notes or sending it to their email and at the end they fall in the wrong hands, additionally passwords are susceptible to various forms of attacks. I think in the future we will see more MFA or new authentication technologies being developed.
Hello Alex, for me, I do find it annoying having to change my password quarterly, as while I do keep my password info stored somewhere safe, it can be tedious for me. but, from what it seems that you’re trying to establish with the end of what you wrote, it’s clear that it’s important that these are done. I myself have a very unique password that I don’t think anyone would remember, but, no one has to memorize my password to access my accounts. They just simply have to find it. After understanding this, I don’t hate quarterly password resets as much, because I do realize the damage that could be done if I didn’t. Not only for me, but for the company as well.
Chapter 7 of the book provides step-by-step instructions on how to strengthen the security of your computer systems to make them less vulnerable to attacks by hackers. This involves taking measures such as ensuring the physical security of the machine, installing the operating system securely, minimizing the number of software applications running on the system, and keeping everything up-to-date by installing the latest patches. Maintaining strict controls over user accounts and access permissions is essential to prevent unauthorized access. Encrypting data adds a layer of protection to your system. Firewalls and log monitoring are also practical tools for detecting suspicious activity. Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of your system being compromised.
Your summary of chapter 7 highlights the crucial steps in bolstering a system’s security against threats. You’ve highlighted everything from physical security measures to user account controls and data encryption. Each of these aspects contributes to building a layered defense. I particularly agree with your emphasis on keeping systems updated and implementing access controls. What are some of the biggest challenges organizations face when implementing host hardening measures?
I appreciate the way you explained how host hardening operates and why it is important. In harmony with your thought, minimizing applications and employing user controls aides in strengthening in system security. From the software patching to the log monitoring, these defensive measures can minimize risk to your system.
Hi Kelly,
I liked how you gave a clear summary of what Chapter 7 comprises. I also believe that systems and servers must be updated regularly. Regular updates reduce the risk of attackers having control of the systems.
This chapter offers insights into the security of computer hosts, detailing how host hardening serves as a defense mechanism against cyber threats. The book highlights that this process involves a cohesive strategy where various security measures reinforce each other. These measures encompass creating backups, performing vulnerability scans, monitoring logs, implementing encryption, managing user access, evaluating and updating operating system vulnerabilities, minimizing unnecessary services, and controlling physical access to systems. The role of patch management and installation is emphasized as critical to maintaining security, despite the potential for patches to introduce new vulnerabilities. However, it’s noted that applying patches can lead to reduced system functionality and demands significant investment in time and staff resources.
Your summary and attention to detail regarding patch management is interesting. When security personnel say that new patches need to be in place, exceptions are always brought up to not implement them citing some issues that can arise from using a newer version of a software. However, this is exactly why developers and cybersecurity personnel need to work closely together to ensure secure development and secure practices in organizations.
Chapter 7 of the book is in relation to Host Hardening. Specifically, it dives into the elements of host hardening including baselining and imaging, server operating systems, vulnerabilities and patches, user and group management, permission management, password management, and vulnerability testing. One particular point of interest that I want to explore is the concept of host hardening itself since this has always been a bit broad in my own research.
The book defines host hardening as “the process of protecting a host against attacks.” Host hardening in general is not a one-time procedure and is often layered through several layers of defenses not directly related to each other. Some examples of host hardening include regular backups, restricting physical access, secure configurations included when installing the OS, minimizing necessary applications and services, hardening any applications in use, regularly patching the system, managing users and groups as well as associated permissions, data encryption, firewalls, system log checking, and running vulnerability tests. Each process can be further defined, but these are some of the general procedures associated with host hardening and should be done to secure systems.
Boyle and Panko Chapter 7 deals with the topic of host hardening. Differently from physical security, much of the host hardening systems analyzed in this chapter deal with ensuring server security in back-end processes and making sure that operating systems and organizations are secured against access to their systems and databases. A takeaway I had from this chapter was how much goes on behind the scenes away from the prying eyes of a standard user to ensure that organizations and their users are able to use and access necessary systems. Processes like image virtualization, host backups, password hardening and protocols, update automation and other systems all contribute to create a secure environment. Having worked in these backgrounds before, I can respect how much the average user doesn’t see and understand how much work goes into keeping an organization running. Ensuring a safe and secure environment is of paramount importance, and a lot of effort goes on behind the scenes to ensure that systems are made safe from intrusion and attack
Absolutely Andrew, Chapter 7 emphasizes host hardening, focusing on securing servers and back-end processes. It highlights the extensive measures, including image virtualization, backups, password protocols, and update automation, essential for ensuring organizational security. The chapter underscores the significant effort needed to maintain a secure environment away from users’ view.
Truly, this chapter provides an insightful perspective on host hardening, emphasizing its crucial role in server security and back-end processes. Unlike physical security, host hardening focuses on safeguarding operating systems and organizations from unauthorized system and database access. This chapter underscores the extensive behind-the-scenes work involved in ensuring secure system functionality, such as image virtualization, host backups, password hardening, update automation, and other protocols. As someone with experience in these areas, I can attest to the unseen efforts put into maintaining organizational security. Consequently, ensuring a safe and secure environment is of utmost importance, requiring continuous efforts to protect systems from intrusion and attack.
Indeed, this chapter sheds light on the criticality of host hardening in bolstering server security and backend processes. Unlike physical security, host hardening focuses on fortifying operating systems and databases against unauthorized access. The chapter underscores the meticulous work involved in maintaining secure system functionality, from image virtualization to password hardening and update automation. As someone familiar with these practices, I recognize the unseen efforts required to uphold organizational security. Thus, prioritizing a safe environment necessitates ongoing vigilance to safeguard systems from intrusion and attack.
Like you pointed out, how much is involved in the background by ensuring server security, it also reminded me of how much more I still have to learn on the cyber end and also what was a something I learned about twenty years ago. I remember when I used to volunteer configuring PCs for incoming students in my IT school years ago. Imaging was a new thing but made it so more efficient and time saving to get virtual drives up and running. Some of the topics covered this week was a review but others that I never hard of before.
Summarizing Boyle and Penko chapter 7 goes thus: hosts, encompassing devices with IP addresses, are crucial for defense against attacks. Hardening all hosts, including servers, routers, and client PCs, is essential as compromised clients can breach defenses. Hardening involves diverse protections to mitigate risks during attacks, typically following security baselines for the host’s OS version. This chapter also gave some clarity on UNIX and Window security. UNIX hardening specifics vary, while Windows servers utilize GUIs like Microsoft Management Consoles for security management. Patch management servers automate patch deployment, crucial for mitigating vulnerabilities. Windows Server versions manage user accounts and permissions meticulously, while UNIX offers simpler permission structures. Regardless of OS, intelligently structuring directory permissions and utilizing group permissions can streamline security management and minimize errors.
HI ikenna,
Like you rightly said, chapter 7 provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of hosts in defending against cyber attacks. These encompass devices with IP addresses, including servers, routers, and client PCs, all of which require hardening – a process involving various protections to mitigate risks during attacks. The chapter elucidates UNIX and Windows security, highlighting the differences in hardening specifics and permission structures. Additionally, it emphasizes the use of patch management servers and the intelligent structuring of directory permissions to minimize errors and streamline security management. This summary underscores the chapter’s key focus on robust and meticulous security measures.
This chapter brought back memories of me MCSE days and also brought new information into it as well. When you went over the UNIX part it reminded me of how we would virtually log into a Linux server across the country for school and that was a huge deal at the time. Now I think about it, it was a huge deal just to be able to navigate through a Linux machine as opposite of Windows and how you pointed out, there is now GUI and was commend based only. I assume that’s why the Internet runs on Linux as it is a lot harder OS to operate to the average user in my opinion.
Ikenna thank you for sharing, Your Analysis highlights key components discussed in this chapter. I agree with the point you made on patch management and having servers to automate the process. Patching systems and software can be challenging given the high number of vulnerabilities discovered in a year, Automation is key to ensure a more streamlined approach, this will facilitate a more efficient and organized approach to patching resources. Organizations need to establish comprehensive patch management strategies and conduct thorough testing to validate the efficiency of these plans.
Emphasizing group policy and permissions is a great point. These functions and systems assist greatly, especially in the area of segregation of duties. Making sure that access and privileges are tightly controlled and regulated assists in creating a secure environment for organizational services and preventing unauthorized access or damage to these systems from outside agitators or internal negligence
“Host Hardening”, provides an in-depth exploration of the various strategies and procedures employed to enhance the security of a system or network. The concept of host hardening, as delineated in the chapter, is a crucial aspect of information security that seeks to reduce vulnerabilities in systems and prevent unauthorized access.
The chapter emphasizes the importance of regular system updates, which serve as the first line of defense against potential threats. These updates often contain patches for known vulnerabilities, thereby enhancing the system’s resilience against attacks.
Moreover, the chapter discusses the role of system configuration in host hardening. By minimizing the number of active services and applications, the attack surface is significantly reduced. This approach, commonly referred to as the principle of least privilege, ensures that only necessary permissions are granted, limiting potential entry points for attackers.
Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) are also highlighted as vital components of host hardening. These systems monitor network traffic and alert administrators about suspicious activities, enabling prompt response to potential threats.
In conclusion, Boyle and Panko’s Chapter 7 offers a comprehensive guide to host hardening, emphasizing the importance of regular updates, appropriate system configuration, and effective use of IDPS in enhancing system security.
Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) like you pointed are vital in host hardening but is also something I have yet been able to work on and would love to be able to sit down and see these in real time. When I had network security twenty years ago in school, I don’t remember going over IDPS but then again, Cloud Services were not really a thing yet either. This host hardening chapter was a review and brought back a lot of information that I covered years ago in IT school.
How well do organizations in the United States comply with NIST special publication 800-123?
I like reading the “In the News” portion of every chapter. While both stories are interesting, the story of D-Link shipping out equipment with known weaknesses is just so irresponsible. Them settling the lawsuit by having to perform 20 years of audits is mind blowing.
I have always had an interest in permissions and how they work. Permission is determined what a user can and cannot do. Simply put permissions determine what the user or group can see and what is hidden in terms of files, folders, and directories. This section also details how to add users and groups and as well as advanced security permissions.
Hi Erskine,
On your second paragraph. The concept of ‘permission’ as introduced by you brings to mind the role of tripple ‘A’. in access control. Permission in this context can be likened to ‘authorization’ more like the scope or limit to which you can operate in such given domain.
Jeffrey Sullivan
MIS 5214
Week 9
Temple University
The section on virtualization stood out for me the most in the chapter about host hardening. The amount of time saved by using this method really makes sense when you are managing a big department or corporation’s IT. Virtualization has several benefits in the host hardening process. Once, it lets system admins create a baseline for each server or client within the organization. That machine can then be cloned from an existing hardened virtual machine in a few minutes vs hours or days. Redundancy also comes to mind here when I think of the benefits of virtualization. For example, in the event of an attack, if one of your clients goes down, you already have a virtual backup of the machine, so the downtime is minimum. According to this week’s text, “Cloning hardened virtual machines minimizes the chance of incorrectly configuring a server, reduces the time needed to configure the servers, and eliminates the need to install applications, patches, or several packs. Labor costs and utilities are reduced by not using stationary physical machines and increases fault tolerance and availability.
I’ve never heard of the rainbow table before reading the chapter this week. Another way of cracking passwords is by looking up the hash of the password in a rainbow table. According to the text, “A rainbow table is a list of pre-computed password hashes that in indexed”. By creating a large table of possible passwords and indexing the hashes to expedite the cracking process. You then do a “time memory trade off”, which was new to me as well. This is where more memory is used to store the pre-computed password hashes, but the time it takes to crack a password is reduced. Also, with the link provided, it shows that a rainbow table is a precomputed table for reversing cryptographic hashes, It is a data structure that allows one to quickly reverse the process hashing to obtain the original value. Some advantages of rainbow tables are: Since everything is precomputed, the process is simplified into a simple search and compare operation on the table and reduces the time required by an attacker to brute force passwords. One of the disadvantages is the amount of storage needed for these large rainbow tables to make the attack more efficient.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7WIkpx02jk
Jeffrey, while true how you’ve explained rainbow tables and their role in password cracking shed light on a lesser-known aspect of cybersecurity. The concept of a rainbow table as a pre-computed list of password hashes indexed for faster cracking is fascinating. It’s cool to see how the “time memory trade-off” optimizes the process, using more memory to expedite password cracking. With this in mind, how do you think advancements in encryption and password protection techniques are evolving to counteract methods like rainbow tables, and what measures do you think are essential for staying ahead in password security?
The rainbow table detail was also fascinating to me. The way in which systems are secured is just as important to learning how they can be exploited or made less secure. Understanding the tools that bad actors may utilize to exploit or compromise a system is essential to making sure we as cybersecurity experts are able to effectively do our jobs and make sure that the systems we engage with are anticipating how attackers may attempt to exploit them and employing countermeasures to deter such activity
In chapter 7 ‘Host Hardening’ the author talks about the importance of securing networking devices such as routers, servers, IoT devices, and so on to reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. The first time I had hardening I thought it was one single process to follow but as the author explained in this chapter hardening involves a series of steps one has to follow to safeguard these devices effectively. These steps include physically securing devices from unauthorized access, backing up data regularly, installing the latest patches, and disabling unnecessary services. Because of the variation in operating systems or software and devices, it is good for companies to have a baseline for hardening as it helps to guide the technicians responsible for implementation, ensuring uniformity and minimizing oversights. Moreover, baseline facilitates patch testing by replicating the production environment in a test environment, allowing companies to verify that patches do not disrupt system functionalities before their deployment.
I always wondered why companies did not install patches and allowed attackers to exploit their environment but reading this chapter I got a picture of the practicality of patch management. It is hard for companies to install all patches as they become available due to different factors such as the number of applications used and the amount of patches getting released daily. This requires firms to have labor for it, and a test environment to test the patches to know that do not impact any functionalities. From reading this chapter I realized patch management is easier said than done and it requires a lot of preplanning to ensure the patching system in place works.
The author also underscores the argument made in Chapter 5 regarding access control, emphasizing the practicality of managing user groups over individual accounts. Applying patches to user groups streamlines the process and reduces the likelihood of errors, enhancing overall user management efficiency. Additionally, the principle of logging in as an administrator only when necessary helps mitigate security risks associated with excessive permissions.
The author also talked about Password complexity and delved into how password complexity helps to slow down some of the common attacks like brute force attacks or dictionary attacks. With the increasing computational power, such attacks become more feasible. During my penetration testing class, I was astonished by the number of open-source tools available for password and directory cracking, leveraging pre-defined password lists or directory files for efficient execution.
The author explored different ways to secure resources from exploitation, I think one key thing is conducting regular audits and compliance checks to ensure that host hardening measures are effectively implemented and maintained over time.
Mariam, this is a good summary of chapter 7. I totally agree with you that this chapter reinforces the significance of managing user groups over individual accounts for access control, streamlining the patch application process and reducing errors. It also delves into the importance of password complexity in slowing down common attacks like brute force or dictionary attacks, given the availability of open-source tools for password cracking.
Great Job Mariam,
Chapter 7 highlights the importance of host hardening to mitigate cyber-attacks, emphasizing a series of steps including physical security, regular data backups, patch management, and service disabling. Establishing baselines aids technicians in achieving uniformity and patch testing, recognizing the challenges of maintaining up-to-date patches across diverse environments. The practicalities of patch management, user group management, and password complexity are underscored, with an emphasis on minimizing security risks and streamlining processes. Regular audits and compliance checks are advocated to ensure ongoing effectiveness of host hardening measures.
This chapter talks about the concept of host hardening and started by defining a host as any device with an IP address. One of my major takeaways was the discussion on server operating systems, particularly focusing on Windows and Unix Servers. Windows Server has evolved over the years, with newer versions like Windows Server 2016 and 2019 offering enhanced security features. Despite improvements, regular patching is necessary to address security vulnerabilities. The user interface of Windows Server resembles that of client versions of Windows, making it user-friendly for administrators. Administrative tools are conveniently located in the Administrative Tools menu, facilitating system management. Windows Server Manager is a key tool for daily management, allowing administrators to add roles, features, and services and receive notifications about performance issues.
Unix hardening presents a challenge due to the variety of Unix versions available, each offering different systems administration and security tools. One uniformity in Unix is the use of command-line based security tools.
It also discusses the challenges of managing vulnerabilities and patches, the importance of prioritizing and testing patches, the flexibility of permissions assignment in Microsoft Windows Server, the importance of password, account, and audit policies, and the need for mobile device protection and centralized PC security management.
Hi Chidiebere,
You bring an excellent point regarding the need for newer versions and the difficulty of hardening Linux/Unix systems. As Microsoft is a proprietary OS, they release newer versions with associated changes including UI, general functionality, and security updates. As such, older versions become end-of-life and may not be supported. It’s better to use newer operating systems when available, but sometimes it’s not feasible when some software works only on certain OS’s. As for Linux/Unix, it makes it especially difficult to harden through only command-line. This is more so the case when moving from an OS like Windows to Linux and attempting to implement the same level of security when offered GUI compared to only CLI.
Host hardening is a method that should be used to secure an organization’s network. If the hosts on a network are hardened, it will be difficult for attackers to gain access to the network. The chapter discussed various ways to harden hosts such as frequent updates, password policies, group policies, and so on. The most important thing I learned from this reading is systems and data backups. It is also important to keep the backup systems/ data updated. By ensuring proper backup processes, organizations can mitigate the risk of data loss and ensure the availability and integrity of important information.
Host hardening is definitely a vital security measure for safeguarding organizational networks as you said and while implementing strategies like frequent updates and robust password policies indeed fortify defenses against potential attacks. The importance of systems and data backups, as highlighted in the chapter, cannot be be overstated enough, especially in ensuring data availability and integrity. Considering the evolving nature of our field how do you envision the role of backup strategies evolving? and are there any emerging technologies or practices you believe will significantly enhance data backup and recovery processes?
Hi Akintunde, I agree that host hardening is a crucial strategy for enhancing network security and making it challenging for attackers to infiltrate an organization’s network. The emphasis on systems and data backups as a key takeaway is very insightful, as it’s a fundamental aspect of a comprehensive security posture. Additionally, incorporating regular testing of these backups is equally important, ensuring that they can be reliably restored in the event of an incident, thereby not just preserving data integrity but also ensuring operational continuity.
This chapter provides an overview of secure hosts. According to the book, host hardening is the process of guarding against attacks. The protection elements support one another. Backups, vulnerability tests, log monitoring, encryption, users and groups, operating system vulnerability checks and patch installation, application and operating system service reduction, and physical access limitation are among the stated tasks.
Patch management and installation play an important role in protection. Patches may create some problems as vulnerabilities on hosts emerge and we use them to defend them. Unfortunately, patch installation decreases functionality and requires considerable time and personnel costs.
Hello Samuel, I agree that patch management and installation play a big role for protection. It’s not a coincidence that many of the breaches we learn about in this course would have been prevented had a patch just been installed. This doesn’t mean that we only focus on patches but rather, if we can simply acknowledge the basics, the rest will come with proper training and education. I do appreciate though that you mentioned by the end about the problems that come up when patches are installed. This is why it’s essential that companies have a solid cyber security department. Not only would they make sure proper patches are installed, but they would also be able to tackle the issues that come up patches.
Hi Samuel,
I agree that backups play a vital role in host hardening by preventing data loss, ensuring integrity, and providing a swift recovery after a security breach.
I appreciated 7.3 because it elaborated more on what initially seemed like a very simple topic for me, that being vulnerabilities and patches. Before reading, I wasn’t too aware of the term “work-around”. A work-around is when multiple manual steps are taken by the system administrator to lessen the impact of a problem. What was interesting to me is that during this, there isn’t new software or anything done through programming, rather, it is very labor intensive. Like the reading suggests, I imagine this method is very prone to failure. Especially considering it’s usually software that’s involved when it comes to solving issues on the computer. I wonder if there is any successful stories of work-arounds for a company. Even if there were to be, this would be a horrible go-to method as it could influence other team members to avoid using new software in different issues.
My favorite part of this chapter was 7.6 when it went in depth about creating strong passwords and how passwords are typically cracked. While yes, a password is most strong when its a long assortment of random uppercase and lowercase characters with random symbols and digits, the likelihood of someone actually memorizing that password is very low and if they just write it down somewhere insecure its all for naught and the password is even weaker than most. System administrators have to enforce such a thing however as its important to secure their systems by not allowing simple passwords or any other breaches as well as requiring frequent changing of passwords incase someone has grabbed it somehow like with a keylogger they can prevent further access and by regularly running password cracking against their own servers they can scold the appropriate parties not doing their part.
Alex, while complex passwords are ideal, they can be difficult to remember. System admins must balance security and usability. Multi-factor authentication and user awareness can strengthen defenses, even with less complex passwords.
I agree with you, Alex, Although passwords offer convenience and simplicity they come with so many challenges, as the author pointed out a password can meet all requirements however it might not be a good password because a user might not be able to memorize it, This often leads to insecure practices such as jotting it down on sticky notes or sending it to their email and at the end they fall in the wrong hands, additionally passwords are susceptible to various forms of attacks. I think in the future we will see more MFA or new authentication technologies being developed.
Hello Alex, for me, I do find it annoying having to change my password quarterly, as while I do keep my password info stored somewhere safe, it can be tedious for me. but, from what it seems that you’re trying to establish with the end of what you wrote, it’s clear that it’s important that these are done. I myself have a very unique password that I don’t think anyone would remember, but, no one has to memorize my password to access my accounts. They just simply have to find it. After understanding this, I don’t hate quarterly password resets as much, because I do realize the damage that could be done if I didn’t. Not only for me, but for the company as well.
Chapter 7 of the book provides step-by-step instructions on how to strengthen the security of your computer systems to make them less vulnerable to attacks by hackers. This involves taking measures such as ensuring the physical security of the machine, installing the operating system securely, minimizing the number of software applications running on the system, and keeping everything up-to-date by installing the latest patches. Maintaining strict controls over user accounts and access permissions is essential to prevent unauthorized access. Encrypting data adds a layer of protection to your system. Firewalls and log monitoring are also practical tools for detecting suspicious activity. Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of your system being compromised.
Your summary of chapter 7 highlights the crucial steps in bolstering a system’s security against threats. You’ve highlighted everything from physical security measures to user account controls and data encryption. Each of these aspects contributes to building a layered defense. I particularly agree with your emphasis on keeping systems updated and implementing access controls. What are some of the biggest challenges organizations face when implementing host hardening measures?
Hi Kelly,
I appreciate the way you explained how host hardening operates and why it is important. In harmony with your thought, minimizing applications and employing user controls aides in strengthening in system security. From the software patching to the log monitoring, these defensive measures can minimize risk to your system.
Hi Kelly,
I liked how you gave a clear summary of what Chapter 7 comprises. I also believe that systems and servers must be updated regularly. Regular updates reduce the risk of attackers having control of the systems.
This chapter offers insights into the security of computer hosts, detailing how host hardening serves as a defense mechanism against cyber threats. The book highlights that this process involves a cohesive strategy where various security measures reinforce each other. These measures encompass creating backups, performing vulnerability scans, monitoring logs, implementing encryption, managing user access, evaluating and updating operating system vulnerabilities, minimizing unnecessary services, and controlling physical access to systems. The role of patch management and installation is emphasized as critical to maintaining security, despite the potential for patches to introduce new vulnerabilities. However, it’s noted that applying patches can lead to reduced system functionality and demands significant investment in time and staff resources.
Hi Nicholas,
Your summary and attention to detail regarding patch management is interesting. When security personnel say that new patches need to be in place, exceptions are always brought up to not implement them citing some issues that can arise from using a newer version of a software. However, this is exactly why developers and cybersecurity personnel need to work closely together to ensure secure development and secure practices in organizations.
Chapter 7 of the book is in relation to Host Hardening. Specifically, it dives into the elements of host hardening including baselining and imaging, server operating systems, vulnerabilities and patches, user and group management, permission management, password management, and vulnerability testing. One particular point of interest that I want to explore is the concept of host hardening itself since this has always been a bit broad in my own research.
The book defines host hardening as “the process of protecting a host against attacks.” Host hardening in general is not a one-time procedure and is often layered through several layers of defenses not directly related to each other. Some examples of host hardening include regular backups, restricting physical access, secure configurations included when installing the OS, minimizing necessary applications and services, hardening any applications in use, regularly patching the system, managing users and groups as well as associated permissions, data encryption, firewalls, system log checking, and running vulnerability tests. Each process can be further defined, but these are some of the general procedures associated with host hardening and should be done to secure systems.