Network hardening is a cybersecurity strategy aimed at enhancing the security and resilience of a computer network by reducing its vulnerability to potential threats and attacks. This process involves implementing a series of proactive measures to strengthen the network's defenses and minimize potential attack surfaces. Network hardening typically includes activities such as configuring firewalls, routers, and switches to enforce strict access controls, updating and patching software regularly to address known vulnerabilities, disabling unnecessary services, and employing encryption protocols to secure data in transit. Additionally, organizations often conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses in the network infrastructure. By adopting network hardening practices, businesses and institutions can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and other cybersecurity incidents, fostering a more secure and robust network environment.