As a result of the studies, the regularities of the influence of vacuum thermocyclic nitriding in a pulsating glow discharge plasma parameters on the microhardness, the diffusion saturation depth, the magnitude and distribution of residual stresses in the hardened layers of steel surfaces are established. Based on the use of expert assessment methods and the results of a series of screening experiments, optimization criteria (endurance limit and corrosion resistance) and controlled factors for mathematical modeling of the formation of strengthened ion-nitrated surface layers are determined. A mathematical model of the technology of the formation of reinforced surfaces of the vacuum thermocyclic nitriding in a pulsating glow discharge plasma according to the criteria of endurance and corrosion resistance is obtained. An analysis of the studies showed that there are no general conclusions and recommendations on the selection of optimal technological parameters of the vacuum thermocyclic nitriding in a pulsating glow discharge plasma that would be used for the practical application of this technology. These circumstances confirm the need for further study of the vacuum thermocyclic nitriding in a plasma of a pulsating glow discharge of vacuum thermocyclic nitriding in a pulsating glow discharge plasma technology and the feasibility of its optimization.