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Hardening systems
Term Key terms bank Y12 Secure Software Architecture
Also listed as: Hardening
Definition
Reducing the attack surface by removing unused services and default accounts, applying patches and using strong configuration and least privilege.
Example: Disable unused ports.
Found in: syllabus, school notes.
Reducing attack surface through configuration and patching.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y12 Secure Software Architecture.
Question types it can appear in
- Short answer: Define, outline or explain it and tie it to the scenario.
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
No past question in this bank is linked to this term yet. It can still be tested through the question types above.
Study links
- Flashcard: Hardening systems in Secure Software Architecture (Year 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Test and evaluate security and resilience
- Key terms bank entry: Hardening
- Notes: Test and evaluate the security and resilience of software by determining… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
- Notes: Test and evaluate security and resilience (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“Reducing the attack surface by removing unused services and default accounts, applying patches and using strong configuration and least privilege.” Then apply it: Disable unused ports.
In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.
Command words used with it
No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.
Technique for the question types
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.
Common mistakes
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Determining vulnerabilities · Handling breaches · Business continuity · Disaster recovery · Code review · Static application security testing (SAST) · Dynamic application security testing (DAST) · Vulnerability assessment · Penetration testing