What does security hardening refer to?

Security hardening refers to the process of enhancing security measures and configurations within a system to reduce vulnerabilities, thereby minimizing the attack surface against potential threats. This involves applying various techniques, such as removing unnecessary services, applying patches, configuring security settings, and implementing strict access controls.

By focusing on strengthening system defenses, security hardening aims to create a robust environment resistant to exploitation. It is a proactive approach, ensuring that systems are locked down as tightly as possible without overly compromising their functionality or performance.

The other options do not align with the true essence of security hardening. For instance, promoting easier access to the system or downgrading security measures contradicts the fundamental goal of increasing security. Similarly, reducing documentation undermines security processes rather than reinforcing them. Therefore, enhancing security measures and configurations stands out as the correct understanding of security hardening.