What is typically one of the first steps in server deployment?

One of the first steps in server deployment is hardening the operating system. This process involves securing the OS by applying necessary patches, configurations, and security settings to reduce vulnerabilities. Hardening measures often include disabling unnecessary services, setting strong password policies, and removing default accounts, which helps to mitigate the risk of unauthorized access or potential attacks from the outset.

By hardening the OS before any applications are installed or before configuring other settings, administrators create a more secure environment for subsequent steps in the deployment process. Ensuring the base operating system is secure is critical because it acts as the foundation for the various applications and services that will run on the server. Therefore, addressing security at the OS level early on is an essential best practice in server deployment.