Windows Server Security Guide

1. Initial Setup and Configuration

Install the latest version of Windows Server with all available updates
Configure a strong password for the Administrator account
Rename the Administrator account
Create a separate account for administrative tasks
Disable the Guest account
Configure the server to automatically install updates

2. Network Security

Enable and configure Windows Firewall with Advanced Security
- Create inbound and outbound rules to restrict traffic
- Enable logging for dropped packets and successful connections
Disable unused network protocols and services
Configure IP security policies for sensitive traffic
Implement Network Access Protection (NAP) for endpoint health validation

3. User Account and Access Control

Implement the principle of least privilege
Configure Group Policy to enforce strong password policies
net accounts /minpwlen:14 /maxpwage:60 /minpwage:1 /uniquepw:24
Enable account lockout policies
Use Microsoft Local Administrator Password Solution (LAPS) for local admin accounts
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for remote access

4. File System and Disk Security

Use NTFS file system for all partitions
Enable BitLocker Drive Encryption for all drives
manage-bde -on C: -UsedSpaceOnly -SkipHardwareTest
Configure proper file and folder permissions
Enable file system auditing for sensitive directories

5. Remote Access Security

Use Remote Desktop Gateway for secure remote desktop connections
Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA) for RDP
reg add "HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp" /v UserAuthentication /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
Restrict RDP access to specific IP addresses or subnets
Use a non-standard port for RDP (change from default 3389)

6. Logging and Monitoring

Enable and configure Windows Event Log
- Increase log size and retention period
- Configure log forwarding to a central SIEM system
Enable PowerShell script block logging and transcription
Implement and configure Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP)
Set up alerts for critical security events

7. Application and Service Hardening

Remove or disable unnecessary roles and features
Keep all installed applications and services updated
Configure application whitelisting using AppLocker or Software Restriction Policies
Implement Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) policies

8. Active Directory Security (if applicable)

Implement a tiered administration model
Use Protected Users security group for privileged accounts
Enable and configure Active Directory auditing
Implement and maintain a robust Group Policy structure
Regularly review and clean up stale objects in AD

Important Note:

This checklist provides a solid foundation for securing a Windows Server environment. However, security is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your security measures, stay informed about new vulnerabilities and patches, and conduct security audits to ensure continued protection.