Essential Group Policy Configurations to Prevent Security Breaches
Key Notes
- Group Policy Editor is critical for enabling essential security settings.
- Each security setting addresses specific vulnerabilities on Windows computers.
- Implementing these settings can significantly reduce security risks.
Mastering Group Policy Settings to Fortify Your Computer Security
This guide explores essential Group Policy settings that enhance Windows 10 and 11 security, helping you protect your device from potential breaches.
Essential Group Policy Settings for Enhancing Security
Step 1: Disable Windows Installer
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Installer. Set the policy to Enabled and select Always from the dropdown list to prevent unauthorized software installations.
Pro Tip: Effective for safeguarding systems used by family members unfamiliar with software validation.
Step 2: Restrict Restart Manager Usage
Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Installer. Select Restart Manager Off from the dropdown to prevent unauthorized restart capabilities after installs.
Step 3: Enforce Elevated Installation Privileges
Access Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Installer and User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Installer. Enable this setting to require admin approval for all installations.
Step 4: Limit Application Execution
Set the policy at User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System. Enable to restrict users to running only specified applications, enhancing control over software usage.
Step 5: Set Password Complexity Requirements
Locate Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Account Policies > Password Policy to enforce strong, complex passwords that enhance login security.
Step 6: Establish Account Lockout Threshold
Configure settings at Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Account Policies > Account Lockout Policy to lock accounts after a set number of failed attempts, enhancing security against brute-force attacks.
Step 7: Prevent Storage of LAN Manager Hash
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options. Enable the setting to ensure LAN Manager does not store weak password hashes, minimizing breach risks.
Step 8: Disallow Anonymous Account Access
In Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options, enable this option to prevent unauthorized users from accessing accounts and shares.
Step 9: Audit NTLM Authentication
Access Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options. Enable auditing for NTLM authentication to monitor network access and enhance security tracking.
Step 10: Block NTLM Usage
Find this setting under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > Lanman Workstation. Enable to prevent NTLM protocol attacks, which can compromise security.
Step 11: Enable System Event Auditing
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Audit Policy. Enable auditing to account for critical system events that could indicate security breaches.
Step 12: Restrict Access to Removable Storage
Under Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access, enable this policy to deny access to USB and removable devices, protecting against unauthorized data transfers.
Step 13: Control Removable Storage in Remote Sessions
Find this setting at Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access. Disable to prevent unauthorized access to removable storage during remote sessions.
Step 14: Activate Script Execution
Access Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows PowerShell. Enable and select Allow only signed scripts to protect against malicious scripts.
Step 15: Block Registry Editing Access
Set this policy at User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System to prevent unauthorized manipulation of system settings through the Registry Editor.
Step 16: Hinder Command Prompt Access
Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System. Enable this policy to disable the Command Prompt to prevent running potentially harmful scripts.
Step 17: Activate Script Scanning
Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > Real-time Protection. Enable to ensure all scripts are scanned for malware, adding a layer of protection.
Step 18: Disable Firewall Exceptions
Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Network > Network Connections > Windows Defender Firewall. Enable this setting to prevent unwanted incoming or outgoing network traffic.
Summary
This guide provides a comprehensive list of Group Policy settings to improve security on Windows 10 and 11. By implementing these settings, users can significantly reduce risks associated with unauthorized software, weak passwords, and network vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Understanding and utilizing Group Policy settings is essential for maintaining computer security. Regularly reviewing and updating these settings will help you stay ahead of potential threats, providing a safer environment for both personal and professional use.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are three best practices for configuring GPOs?
Avoid adjusting settings without thorough understanding, do not enable or disable firewall settings recklessly, and make sure to force updates manually when changes are made.
Which Group Policy settings should I prioritize?
Focus on settings that directly impact security, such as password complexity and access restrictions, while also monitoring for unauthorized changes regularly.