The correct answer is D - Enforcing strict password policies for all user accounts.
According to WGU Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering (KFO1 / D488), enforcing strong password policies on endpoints is a critical step in hardening devices. Strong passwords prevent unauthorized users from easily gaining access to sensitive data on endpoint devices.
Network-based IDPS (A) protects the network but not specifically endpoints. Vulnerability assessments and penetration testing (B) identify vulnerabilities but do not directly secure endpoints. Logging and monitoring (C) detect incidents but do not prevent initial unauthorized access.
Reference Extract from Study Guide:
"Implementing strong password policies for endpoint devices ensures that unauthorized users cannot easily access sensitive information, helping to harden systems against attacks."
- WGU Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering (KFO1 / D488), Endpoint Security Controls