Introduction:
This document provides guidelines on how to safely and securely use Windows Server from a cybersecurity and privacy perspective. It aims to help provide the best practices for deploying and maintaining Windows Server environments.
1. General Security Recommendations
1.1. Always use the latest version of Windows Server and keep it up-to-date with security patches and updates.
1.2. Disable or uninstall unused roles, features, and services to minimize the attack surface.
1.3. Use strong and unique passwords for all administrator accounts.
1.4. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all remote access to Windows Server.
1.5. Regularly audit and review user accounts and permissions, removing unnecessary or outdated access.
1.6. Use a dedicated, separate administrator account for managing Windows Server and avoid using this account for daily tasks.
2. Network Security
2.1. Use network segmentation to isolate Windows Server from other networks.
2.2. Implement firewall rules to restrict incoming and outgoing traffic to the minimum necessary.
2.3. Enable Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security and create appropriate inbound and outbound rules.
2.4. Disable or secure unused network protocols, such as SMBv1, to prevent exploitation.
3. Secure Configuration
3.1. Follow Microsoft’s Security Compliance Toolkit and apply the relevant security baselines.
3.2. Enable Windows Server auditing and configure auditing policies to monitor security events.
3.3. Regularly review and update Group Policy settings to enforce security policies and configurations.
3.4. Disable or restrict PowerShell and other scripting languages if not required for administration tasks.
4. Data Protection
4.1. Enable BitLocker Drive Encryption to protect sensitive data at rest.
4.2. Enable Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) for SQL Server databases to protect sensitive data.
4.3. Implement a robust backup and recovery strategy, including off-site and encrypted backups.
4.4. Restrict access to sensitive data using Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) and the principle of least privilege.
5. Monitoring and Incident Response
5.1. Configure Windows Event Forwarding to aggregate logs to a centralized log management system.
5.2. Regularly review and analyze logs for signs of compromise or malicious activity.
5.3. Implement an intrusion detection/prevention system (IDS/IPS) to detect and prevent attacks.
5.4. Develop an incident response plan and conduct regular training exercises for the team.
6. Ongoing Maintenance and Assessment
6.1. Perform regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests to identify and remediate security gaps.
6.2. Keep up-to-date with the latest security best practices, guidelines, and threat intelligence.
6.3. Conduct periodic security awareness training for all employees.
6.4. Review and update this guideline at least annually or after significant changes to the Windows Server environment.
Conclusion:
By following these guidelines and implementing the recommended security controls, can help ensure the safe and secure use of Windows Server, reducing the risk of cyberattacks and protecting sensitive data.