Hardening refers to the process of strengthening a system or material to make it more resistant to damage or attacks. In the context of computer security, hardening involves configuring software and hardware to reduce vulnerabilities, thereby protecting against unauthorized access and cyber threats. This can include updating software, disabling unnecessary services, and applying security patches. In materials science, hardening can describe methods used to increase the durability of metals and other substances. Techniques such as quenching, tempering, and case hardening are employed to enhance strength and resistance to wear, making materials suitable for demanding applications in industries like construction and manufacturing.