Which of the following is generally NOT considered a good Web server security strategy?

Introduction / Context:
Securing a Web server requires careful configuration so that only necessary services are exposed and potential attack surfaces are minimised. Good security practices focus on limiting access, removing unnecessary software, and tightly controlling who can change system files. Some actions, however, increase risk and are therefore not recommended. This question asks which practice is generally not a good idea for Web server security, even though it might seem helpful for users at first glance.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The context is a production Web server that hosts real applications and data.
- Several possible practices are listed, including removing tools, adding demo programs, restricting users, and limiting open ports.
- We assume the goal is to reduce vulnerabilities and protect sensitive information.

Concept / Approach:
A secure Web server should run only the necessary services and keep all other software to a minimum. Unused compilers, interpreters, and sample programs can provide attackers with tools or code that may contain vulnerabilities. Restricting who can install software or modify files helps prevent accidental or malicious changes. Limiting open ports to only those that are required reduces the number of entry points an attacker could try. In contrast, installing demo programs and leaving them accessible on a live server increases the attack surface, because demo code is often less thoroughly tested and may expose configuration details, test accounts, or exploitable bugs. Therefore, adding sample and demo programs on a production server is not a good security strategy.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Evaluate the idea of removing unnecessary compilers and interpreters. This is recommended, because it ensures that attackers cannot easily compile or run arbitrary code on the server. Step 2: Evaluate limiting which users can install software or edit files. This is also recommended, as it enforces the principle of least privilege and reduces the chance of unapproved changes. Step 3: Evaluate restricting access to the Web server and keeping only required ports open. This aligns with firewall best practices and reduces exposure to network based attacks. Step 4: Evaluate installing sample and demo programs on the live server. These programs may be old, poorly maintained, or designed only for demonstration and testing, and they can open security holes if left accessible to the internet. Step 5: Conclude that installing sample and demo programs on the production server is not a good security strategy, while the other actions are positive measures.

Verification / Alternative check:
Security guidelines from major software vendors and security organisations often advise administrators to remove default sample applications, demo scripts, and unnecessary tools from production Web servers. Vulnerability reports have historically shown that attackers frequently exploit flaws in sample programs that ship with Web server software. In contrast, security checklists emphasise principles such as reducing installed software, restricting accounts, and limiting network exposure. This pattern of advice clearly supports the conclusion that leaving demo programs available on a live server is insecure.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Remove unnecessary compilers and interpreters from the production server: This is a correct and helpful security practice that reduces available tools for attackers.
Limit which users can load software or edit files on the server: This is also a good practice that enforces security by controlling administrative privileges.
Restrict access to the Web server and keep only a minimum number of ports open: This is a recommended network security strategy that reduces the potential attack surface.

Common Pitfalls:
Some administrators may think that providing demo applications on a live server is user friendly and harmless, especially if the demos do not access production data. However, these applications can reveal configuration details, contain coding errors, or be forgotten during security updates, making them attractive targets. Another pitfall is assuming that security is achieved mainly by firewalls and that software on the server does not matter. In reality, every piece of code exposed to users should be considered part of the attack surface. To avoid these mistakes, follow the rule that production servers should contain only necessary, well maintained applications.

Final Answer:
The practice that is generally not a good Web server security strategy is Install sample and demo programs so that users can try features on the live server.