Question

An IT manager is setting up an image for dispatching airplanes at a major airport. They are trying to lock down the image to run only the dispatch service. One of the layers of security is to block unneeded service ports from communicating, such as email. Where should the manager start?

Answer 1

An IT manager setting up a secured dispatch system at an airport should start with port hardening, analyzing open ports, and configuring the firewall to block unneeded services such as email. Tools like netstat or nmap can be used for port audits, and regular updates and monitoring are also essential for maintaining security.

Step-by-step explanation:

An IT manager aiming to secure an image for dispatching airplanes should start with the process of port hardening, which is a critical part of network security. This involves analyzing and identifying all open ports on the system and then determining which ports are necessary for the functionality of the dispatch service. Once identified, unnecessary services, such as email, can be blocked by configuring the host's firewall to reject traffic to and from unneeded service ports.

To effectively lock down the system, the IT manager may need to perform an audit of active ports using tools like netstat or nmap. After the audit, the manager should proceed to configure the firewall rules using the built-in firewall management tool or third-party software, closing off all ports except those required for the dispatch service. This is crucial in minimizing the system's attack surface and preventing unauthorized access.

In addition to port management, the IT manager should ensure to keep the system and its security features up-to-date with the latest patches and updates, implement comprehensive access controls, and monitor network traffic regularly for suspicious activities.