What is "hardening?"

Developing and implementing security measures and best practices is known as "hardening." Hardening is a continuous process of identifying and understanding security risks, and taking appropriate steps to counter them. The process is dynamic because threats, and the systems they target, are continuously evolving.

Most of the information in this guide focuses on IT settings and techniques, but it’s important to remember that physical security is also a vital part of hardening. For example, use physical barriers to servers and client computers, and make sure that things like camera enclosures, locks, tamper alarms, and access controls are secure.

The following are the actionable steps for hardening a VMS:

1. Understand the components to protect
2. Harden the surveillance system components:
   1. Harden the servers (physical and virtual) and client computers and devices
   2. Harden the network
   3. Harden the cameras
3. Document and maintain security settings on each system
4. Train and invest in people and skills, including your supply chain