Database servers are a prime target for attackers . The database server must be secured against internal, external, network level, and application level attacks. A secure database server includes a hardened SQL Server 2000 installation on top of a hardened Windows 2000 installation, coupled with secure network defenses provided by routers and firewalls.
For a quick reference checklist, see "Checklist: Securing Your Database Server" in the "Checklists" section of this guide.