In today's digital era, cybersecurity has become a major concern for businesses and individuals alike. The increasing complexity of cyber threats has made 'attack surface protection' a key focus of a robust cybersecurity strategy. The 'attack surface' of a system refers to the number of potential points where an unauthorized user can infiltrate. Keeping this surface as minimal as possible is paramount for security, hence the need for effective attack surface protection.

Initially, to carry out a robust 'attack surface protection' strategy, it's essential to understand the concept of 'attack surface reduction'. Attack surface reduction primarily involves identifying, assessing and minimizing these potential entry points to mitigate the threats. Having an inventory of all hardware, software, network interfaces, and users is a good starting point to understand the sheer scope of possible vulnerabilities.

Identify and Document Assets

Identifying and documenting all network-connected devices is the preliminary step in reducing the attack surface. This includes not only servers and desktops but also mobile devices, IoT devices, and even cloud storage accounts. Once identified, they should be properly documented, noting their purpose, specifications, and network configurations.

Implement Least Privilege & Strong Authentication Practices

Implementing the principle of least privilege (POLP) is a fundamental element of a robust attack surface protection strategy. By limiting each user's access rights to only the resources they need, the potential for internal threats is significantly reduced. Similarly, strong authentication practices, from multi-factor authentication to biometric authentication, are crucial in fending off unauthorized access attempts.

Regularly Update and Patch Systems

Regularly updating and patching systems also goes a long way in reducing the attack surface. Software and hardware manufacturers regularly provide patches that address vulnerabilities or enhance security features. Timely application of these updates is cardinal in ensuring devices remain secure.

Employ Threat Modeling and Security Testing

Threat modeling and regular security testing are crucial in identifying potential vulnerabilities, prioritizing them, and allocating resources to address them. This assures that the organization's vulnerability management is as effective and efficient as it can be.

Deploy Network Monitoring & Intrusion Detection Tools

Network monitoring and intrusion detection tools are indispensable in reducing the attack surface. By actively observing network traffic and detecting anomalies, these tools help prevent potential breaches. Intrusion detection systems also contribute to the rapid response strategy against detected threats.

Limit Software Installation and Usage

Limiting the installation and usage of non-essential software adds an extra layer to 'attack surface protection.' The fewer the programs installed, the lesser are the potential vulnerabilities a hacker could use to infiltrate systems.

Deactivating Unnecessary Ports and Protocols

Deactivating unnecessary ports and protocols is another key strategy in reducing the attack surface. By strictly limiting the ways in which an outside entity can interact with a network, organizations can significantly thwart outsider threats.

Ensure Data Encryption

Data encryption ensures that even if a cybercriminal were to access sensitive data, they would not comprehend the information without the corresponding decryption key. This not only protects data privacy but also safeguards against potential threats such as data theft.

"In conclusion, the above strategies offer comprehensive guidance to achieving robust 'attack surface protection.' Cybersecurity is not a one-time activity but an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance, routine updates, and regular testing and mitigation measures. Understanding the concept of 'attack surface protection' and diligently applying these strategies can prevent cyber threats from becoming significant risks. It's essential for companies to understand and continuously invest in their cybersecurity infrastructure and practices to endure in the constantly evolving digital landscape."