Which action is part of hardening the server in CyberArk?

Hardening a server in CyberArk, or in general IT security practices, refers to the process of securing a system by reducing its surface of vulnerability. This involves taking steps to minimize potential attack vectors and ensuring that the system is configured in a secure manner.

Removing unnecessary services and ensuring safe configurations is a critical aspect of hardening. By eliminating services that are not required for the server's intended function, you significantly reduce the number of potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by an attacker. Each service running on a server represents a possible entry point for an attack, so it is essential to disable or remove any services that are not actively needed.

Moreover, safe configurations often involve adjusting settings to adhere to security best practices, such as enforcing strong authentication mechanisms, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that security patches are applied promptly. These measures collectively enhance the security posture of the server.

In contrast, installing multiple applications could introduce unnecessary risk without providing corresponding benefits. Configuring unnecessary services to run increases the attack surface, while allowing remote access can lead to vulnerabilities if not managed with strict security protocols.