Windows Server Security Checklist

1. Initial Setup and Configuration

Install the latest Windows Server version with minimal role/feature set
Apply all available security updates and patches
Configure automatic updates
Rename the Administrator account
Disable the Guest account
Set strong, unique passwords for all accounts
Enable BitLocker drive encryption

2. Network Security

Enable and configure Windows Firewall
Disable unnecessary network services and protocols
Implement network segmentation
Configure IPsec for sensitive network communications
Use static IP addresses for servers
Disable NetBIOS and LLMNR if not needed
Implement 802.1x for network access control

3. Account and Access Management

Implement the principle of least privilege
Use Group Policy to enforce password policies
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all accounts
Regularly audit user accounts and permissions
Implement time-based access controls
Use Privileged Access Workstations (PAWs) for administrative tasks
Enable and configure Windows Defender Credential Guard

4. Logging and Monitoring

Enable and configure Windows Event Logging
Set up centralized log collection (e.g., using Windows Event Forwarding)
Implement Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solution
Configure alerts for critical security events
Regularly review and analyze security logs
Enable PowerShell logging and transcription
Implement file integrity monitoring

5. Malware Protection

Install and configure Windows Defender Antivirus
Enable Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) or AppLocker
Implement attachment scanning for email servers
Configure Windows Defender Exploit Guard
Enable Windows Defender Application Guard for Edge browser
Implement network-based intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS)

6. Data Protection

Implement regular backup schedules
Test backup restoration procedures
Use Encrypting File System (EFS) for sensitive files
Implement data classification and handling policies
Configure Windows Information Protection (WIP) for data leakage prevention
Implement database encryption for sensitive data

7. Remote Access Security

Use Remote Desktop Gateway for RDP connections
Implement Network Level Authentication (NLA) for RDP
Configure VPN with strong encryption and authentication
Implement Just-In-Time (JIT) access for administrative tasks
Use jump servers for accessing critical systems
Implement geo-blocking for remote access where appropriate

8. Regular Maintenance and Auditing

Conduct regular vulnerability scans
Perform penetration testing at least annually
Regularly review and update security policies
Conduct security awareness training for administrators
Implement change management procedures
Regularly review and rotate encryption keys and certificates

Warning:

Implementing these security measures may impact system functionality or user experience. Always test changes in a non-production environment first and ensure you have a rollback plan.

Tip:

Consider using Microsoft's Security Compliance Toolkit to help automate the implementation of security best practices and to maintain a consistent security posture across your Windows Server environment.