What element does the layered defense strategy aim to enhance in a security framework?

The layered defense strategy, often referred to as "defense in depth," is designed to create multiple layers of security controls to protect information systems. By implementing various security measures at different layers, the strategy aims to enhance the complexity for attackers. This complexity makes it more difficult for an adversary to penetrate the system, as they must overcome multiple barriers rather than exploiting a single point of failure.

Each layer can serve a different purpose and protect against various types of threats, which means that even if one layer is compromised, others are still in place to thwart an attack. This multifaceted approach significantly increases the difficulty for an attacker, who must navigate through a more complicated landscape of security measures.

In contrast, focusing on cost-effectiveness might lead to under-investing in necessary defenses, while strengthening a single point of defense could create vulnerabilities if that specific point is compromised. Redundancy in defense systems is valuable but is typically a byproduct of layered security rather than the primary aim. The essence of the layered defense strategy is to make it as challenging as possible for attackers to succeed.