Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) is one of the methods in layer manufacturing technologies by which metal powder can be directly used to produce both prototype and production tools. The components manufactured by DMLS should have essential hardness for its application in the industry. This study was carried out to determine the optimum process parameters influencing the hardness of the components produced by DMLS. Sintering speed, hatch spacing, post contouring, infiltration and hatch type are the process parameters taken up for study. Statistical design of experiments using Taguchi’s orthogonal array was employed for this study. The experimental data obtained were analyzed using ANOVA. From the results, it is found that one of the process parameters; scan spacing affects the hardness of the parts produced by this technology to a significant extent.