What does endpoint hardening prevent in the context of CyberArk EPM?

Endpoint hardening is a security practice aimed at minimizing vulnerabilities in endpoints, which include devices such as computers, laptops, and servers. In the context of CyberArk Endpoint Privilege Manager (EPM), endpoint hardening specifically prevents unauthorized changes and threats. By limiting users' ability to make changes to the system, it helps mitigate risks associated with malware, unauthorized applications, and potential data breaches.

Through measures such as application whitelisting, restricting administrative privileges, and enforcing policy compliance, endpoint hardening ensures that only trusted applications can run and that configurations remain consistent and secure. This rigorous control is essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining the integrity of the organization's IT environment.

The focus on preventing unauthorized changes indicates that hardening does not facilitate interactions or elevate permissions that could inadvertently expose the system to further risks. Instead, it ensures that endpoints operate under strict security parameters, preserving the overall cybersecurity posture of the organization.