Hardentools is a Windows security hardening utility that disables potentially dangerous features in Microsoft Windows 10 and 11, as well as commonly used applications including Microsoft Office, LibreOffice, and Adobe PDF Reader. The tool targets features that are typically designed for enterprise environments but are generally unnecessary for regular users and frequently exploited by attackers to execute malicious code. By disabling these features, Hardentools aims to reduce the attack surface and provide an additional layer of security. The tool modifies various Windows settings and application configurations that are commonly abused in cyberattacks. This includes disabling certain Microsoft Office functionalities, Adobe Reader features, and Windows components that pose security risks. Hardentools is specifically designed for individuals at risk who prioritize security over full functionality. The tool comes with warnings about potential application malfunctions and usability limitations, such as restrictions on complex Excel calculations and command-line terminal access. The utility is not recommended for corporate environments and requires users to accept trade-offs between security and functionality. Users can review a complete list of changes before implementation to understand the impact on their system.
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