INFT 5033 - Operating System and Application Hardening Report

This report provides a detailed analysis of operating system and application hardening techniques, focusing on Windows environments. It covers various aspects such as Windows AppLocker, Windows Firewall, and PowerShell, along with configuration management using Group Policy. The report emphasizes the importance of regular system hardening to mitigate cybersecurity threats and enhance system security in industrial control systems. It includes practical implementation screenshots and annotations, referencing cybersecurity frameworks for recommendations. The document explores the removal or disabling of machine features, applications, and ports to minimize the system's attack surface, aiming for a secure administration of the system. It also touches upon the use of virtualization and the need for firewalls to protect against unauthorized access.