SQL Server is regularly targeted by hackers as it is a repository of sensitive data for organizations. If breached, hackers can gain access to confidential information including, but not limited to credit card numbers, social security numbers, and marketing information. This presentation covers topics pertaining to best practices and tips on how to secure and harden a SQL Server 2008 & 2005 implementation. Some of the security and hardening topics covered include: minimize surface area with policy based management, encryption, advanced auditing, configuring a Windows Server 2008 firewall, applying security templates with Active Directory, and consolidating SQL Server logs.
Ross Mistry is a consultant, bestselling author and SQL Server MVP. As a consultant in the Silicon Valley, he design and implements solutions for fortune 500 organizations with Microsoft technologies. His specialties include migrations, high availability, security and virtualization. Ross has been involved in over ten books; his latest titles include SQL Server 2008 Management and Administration, Windows Server 2008 Unleashed and Hyper-V Unleashed. Ross also frequently speaks at international conferences such as PASS, Connections and Microsoft. His sessions receive top rated speaker scores. His blog can be found on networkworld.com and the Microsoft TechNet IT Community Manager Hub site.