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List of the settings in the Windows MDM security baseline in Intune

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This article is a reference for the settings that are available in the different versions of the Windows Mobile Device Management (MDM) security baseline for Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices that you manage with Microsoft Intune. You can use the provided Tabs to select and view the settings in the current baseline version and a few older versions that might still be in use.

For each setting you’ll find the baselines default configuration, which is also the recommended configuration for that setting provided by the relevant security team. Because products and the security landscape evolve, the recommended defaults in one baseline version might not match the defaults you find in later versions of the same baseline. Different baseline types, like the MDM security and the Defender for Endpoint baselines, could also set different defaults.

When the Intune UI includes a Learn more link for a setting, you’ll find that here as well. Use that link to view the settings policy configuration service provider (CSP) or relevant content that explains the settings operation.

When a new version of a baseline becomes available, it replaces the previous version. Profiles instances that you’ve created before the availability of a new version:

  • Become read-only. You can continue to use those profiles but can't edit them to change their configuration.
  • Can be updated to the latest version. After you update a profile to the current baseline version, you can edit the profile to modify settings.

To learn more about using security baselines, see Use security baselines. In that article you'll also find information about how to Change the baseline version for a profile to update a profile to use the latest version of that baseline.

Security Baseline for Windows, version 23H2

The settings in this baseline are taken from the version 23H2 of the Group Policy security baseline as found in the Security Compliance Toolkit and Baselines from the Microsoft Download Center, and include only the settings that apply to Windows devices managed through Intune. When available, the setting name links to the source Configuration Service Provider (CSP), and then displays that settings default configuration in the baseline.

Security Baseline for Windows, November 2021

Security Baseline for Windows, December 2020

Security Baseline for Windows, August 2020

Administrative Templates

Control Panel > Personalization

  • Prevent enabling lock screen camera
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent enabling lock screen slide show
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

MS Security Guide

  • Apply UAC restrictions to local accounts on network logons
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Configure SMB v1 client driver
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Configure MrxSmb10 driver
      Baseline default: Disable driver (recommended)

  • Configure SMB v1 server
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Enable Structured Exception Handling Overwrite Protection (SEHOP)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • WDigest Authentication (disabling may require KB2871997)
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

MSS (Legacy)

  • MSS: (DisableIPSourceRouting IPv6) IP source routing protection level (protects against packet spoofing)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • DisableIPSourceRouting IPv6 (Device)
      Baseline default: Highest protection, source routing is completely disabled

  • MSS: (DisableIPSourceRouting) IP source routing protection level (protects against packet spoofing)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • DisableIPSourceRouting (Device)
      Baseline default: Enabled Highest protection, source routing is completely disabled

  • MSS: (EnableCMPRedirect) Allow ICMP redirects to override OSPF generated routes
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • MSS: (NoNameReleaseOnDemand) Allow the computer to ignore NetBIOS name release requests except from WINS servers
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Network > DNS Client

  • Turn off multicast name resolution
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Network > Network Connections

  • Prohibit use of Internet Connection Sharing on your DNS domain network
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Network > Network Provider

  • Hardened UNC Paths
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Hardened UNC Paths: (Device)
      Baseline defaults:

      Name Value
      \\*\SYSVOL RequireMutualAuthentication=1,RequireIntegrity=1
      \\*\NETLOGON RequireMutualAuthentication=1,RequireIntegrity=1

Network > Windows Connection Manager

  • Prohibit connection to non-domain networks when connected to domain authenticated network
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Printers

  • Configure Redirection Guard
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Redirection Guard Options (Device)
      Baseline default: Redirection Guard Enabled

  • Configure RPC connection settings
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Use authentication for outgoing RPC connections: (Device)
      Baseline default: Default
    • Protocol to allow for incoming RPC connections: (Device)
      Baseline default: RPC over TCP

  • Configure RPC listener settings
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Protocols to allow for incoming RPC connections: (Device)
      Baseline default: RCP over TCP
    • Authentication protocol to use for incoming RPC connections: (Device)
      Baseline default: Negotiate

  • Configure RPC over TPC port
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • RPC over TCP port (Device)
      Baseline default: 0

  • Limits print driver installation to Administrators
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Manage processing of Queue-specific files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Manage processing of Queue-specific files: (Device)
      Baseline default: Limit Queue-specific files to Color profiles

Start Menu and Taskbar > Notifications

  • Turn off toast notifications on the lock screen (User)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

System > Credentials Delegation

  • Encryption Oracle Remediation
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Protection Level: (Device)
      Baseline default: Force Updated Clients

  • Remote host allows delegation of non-exportable credentials
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

System > Device Installation > Device Installation Restrictions

  • Prevent installation of devices using drivers that match these device setup classes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Also apply to matching devices that are already installed
      Baseline default: True
    • Prevented Classes
      Baseline default: {d48179be-ec20-11d1-b6b8-00c04fa372a7}

System > Early Launch Antimalware

  • Boot-Start Driver Initialization Policy
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Choose the boot-start drivers that can be initialized:
      Baseline default: Good, unknown and bad but critical

System > Group Policy

  • Configure registry policy processing
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Do not apply during periodic background processing (Device)
      Baseline default: False
    • Process even if the Group Policy objects have not changed (Device)
      Baseline default: True

System > Internet Communication Management > Internet Communication settings

  • Turn off downloading of print drivers
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off Internet download for Web publishing and online ordering wizards
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

System > Local Security Authority

  • Allow Custom SSPs and APs to be loaded into LSASS
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

System > Power Management > Sleep Settings

  • Allow standby states (S1-S3) when sleeping (on battery)
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Allow standby states (S1-S3) when sleeping (plugged in)
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Require a password when a computer wakes (on battery)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Require a password when a computer wakes (plugged in)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

System > Remote Assistance

  • Configure Solicited Remote Assistance
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

System > Remote Procedure Call

  • Restrict Unauthenticated RPC clients
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • RPC Runtime Unauthenticated Client Restriction to Apply:
      Baseline default: Authenticated

Windows Components > App runtime

  • Allow Microsoft accounts to be optional
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > AutoPlay Policies

  • Disallow Autoplay for non-volume devices
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Set the default behavior for AutoRun
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Default AutoRun Behavior
      Baseline default: Do not execute any autorun commands

  • Turn off Autoplay
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Turn off Autoplay on:
      Baseline default: All drives

Windows Components > BitLocker Drive Encryption > Fixed Data Drives

  • Deny write access to fixed drives not protected by BitLocker
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > BitLocker Drive Encryption > Removable Data Drives

  • Deny write access to removable drives not protected by BitLocker
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Do not allow write access to devices configured in another organization
      Baseline default: False

Windows Components > Credential User Interface

  • Enumerate administrator accounts on elevation
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Event Log Service > Application

  • Specify the maximum log file size (KB)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Maximum Log Size (KB)
      Baseline default: 32768

Windows Components > Event Log Service > Security

  • Specify the maximum log file size (KB)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Maximum Log Size (KB)
      Baseline default: 196608

Windows Components > Event Log Service > System

  • Specify the maximum log file size (KB)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Maximum Log Size (KB)
      Baseline default: 32768

Windows Components > File Explorer

  • Configure Windows Defender SmartScreen
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Pick one of the following settings: (Device)
      Baseline default: Warn and prevent bypass

  • Turn off Data Execution Prevention for Explorer
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off heap termination on corruption
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Advanced Page

  • Allow software to run or install even if the signature is invalid
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Check for server certificate revocation
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Check for signatures on downloaded programs
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Do not allow ActiveX controls to run in Protected Mode when Enhanced Protected Mode is enabled
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off encryption support
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Secure Protocol combinations
      Baseline default: Use TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2

  • Turn on 64-bit tab processes when running in Enhanced Protected Mode on 64-bit versions of Windows
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn on Enhanced Protected Mode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel

  • Prevent ignoring certificate errors
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Internet Zone

  • Access data sources across domains
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Access data sources across domains
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow cut, copy or paste operations from the clipboard via script
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow paste operations via script
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow loading of XAML files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • XAML Files
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow only approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Only allow approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Allow only approved domains to use the TDC ActiveX control
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Only allow approved domains to use the TDC ActiveX control
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Allow script-initiated windows without size or position constraints
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow script-initiated windows without size or position constraints
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow scripting of Internet Explorer WebBrowser controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Internet Explorer web browser control
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow scriptlets
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Scriptlets
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow updates to status bar via script
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Status bar updates via script
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow VBScript to run in Internet Explorer
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow VBScript to run in Internet Explorer
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Automatic prompting for file downloads
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Automatic prompting for file downloads
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Download signed ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Download signed ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Download unsigned ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Download unsigned ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Enable dragging of content from different domains across windows
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Enable dragging of content from different domains across windows
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Enable dragging of content from different domains within a window
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Enable dragging of content from different domains within a window
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Include local path when user is uploading files to a server
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Include local path when user is uploading files to a server
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

  • Launching applications and files in an IFRAME
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Launching applications and files in an IFRAME
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Logon options
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Logon options
      Baseline default: Prompt for user name and password

  • Navigate windows and frames across different domains
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Navigate windows and frames across different domains
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Show security warning for potentially unsafe files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Launching programs and unsafe files
      Baseline default: Prompt

  • Turn on Cross-Site Scripting Filter
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Turn on Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Turn on Protected Mode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Protected Mode
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Turn on SmartScreen Filter scan
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Use SmartScreen Filter
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Userdata persistence
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Userdata persistence
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate into this zone
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate into this zone
      Baseline default: Disable

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page

  • Intranet Sites: Include all network paths (UNCs)
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Turn on certificate address mismatch warning
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Intranet Zone

  • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: High safety

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Local Machine Zone

  • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Locked-Down Internet Zone

  • Turn on SmartScreen Filter scan
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Use SmartScreen Filter
      Baseline default: Enable

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Locked-Down Intranet Zone

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Locked-Down Local Machine Zone

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Locked-Down Restricted Sites Zone

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

  • Turn on SmartScreen Filter scan
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Use SmartScreen Filter
      Baseline default: Enable

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Locked-Down Trusted Sites Zone

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Restricted Sites Zone

  • Access data sources across domains
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Access data sources across domains
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow active scripting
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow active scripting
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow binary and script behaviors
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow binary and script behaviors
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow cut, copy or paste operations from the clipboard via script
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow paste operations via script
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow file downloads
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow file downloads
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow loading of XAML files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • XAML Files
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow META REFRESH
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow META REFRESH
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow only approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Only allow approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Allow only approved domains to use the TDC ActiveX control
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Only allow approved domains to use the TDC ActiveX control
      Baseline default: Enable

  • Allow script-initiated windows without size or position constraints
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow script-initiated windows without size or position constraints
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow scripting of Internet Explorer WebBrowser controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Internet Explorer web browser control
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow scriptlets
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Scriptlets
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow updates to status bar via script
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Status bar updates via script
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Allow VBScript to run in Internet Explorer
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Allow VBScript to run in Internet Explorer
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Automatic prompting for file downloads
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Automatic prompting for file downloads
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Download signed ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Download signed ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Download unsigned ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Download unsigned ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Enable dragging of content from different domains across windows
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Enable dragging of content from different domains across windows
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Enable dragging of content from different domains within a window
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Enable dragging of content from different domains within a window
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Include local path when user is uploading files to a server
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Include local directory path when uploading files to a server
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: Disable Java

  • Launching applications and files in an IFRAME
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Launching applications and files in an IFRAME
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Logon options
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Logon options
      Baseline default: Anonymous logon

  • Navigate windows and frames across different domains
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Navigate windows and frames across different domains
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Run ActiveX controls and plugins
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Run ActiveX controls and plugins
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Scripting of Java applets
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Scripting of Java applets
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Show security warning for potentially unsafe files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Launching programs and unsafe files
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Turn on Cross-Site Scripting Filter
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Turn on Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter
      Baseline default: Enabled

  • Turn on Protected Mode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Protected Mode
      Baseline default: Enabled

  • Turn on SmartScreen Filter scan
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Use SmartScreen Filter
      Baseline default: Enabled

  • Use Pop-up Blocker
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Use Pop-up Blocker
      Baseline default: Enabled

  • Userdata persistence
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Userdata persistence
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate into this zone
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate into this zone
      Baseline default: Disable

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Internet Control Panel > Security Page > Trusted Sites Zone

  • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Don't run antimalware programs against ActiveX controls
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
      Baseline default: Disable

  • Java permissions
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Java permissions
      Baseline default: High safety

Windows Components > Internet Explorer

  • Prevent bypassing SmartScreen Filter warnings
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent bypassing SmartScreen Filter warnings about files that are not commonly downloaded from the Internet
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent managing SmartScreen Filter
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Select SmartScreen Filter mode
      Baseline default: On

  • Prevent per-user installation of ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Security Zones: Do not allow users to add/delete sites
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Security Zones: Do not allow users to change policies
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Security Zones: Use only machine settings
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Specify use of ActiveX Installer Service for installation of ActiveX controls
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off Crash Detection
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off the Security Settings Check feature
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Turn on the auto-complete feature for user names and passwords on forms (User)
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Add-on Management

  • Remove "Run this time" button for outdated ActiveX controls in Internet Explorer
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off blocking of outdated ActiveX controls for Internet Explorer
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features

  • Allow fallback to SSL 3.0 (Internet Explorer)
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Allow insecure fallback for:
      Baseline default: No Sites

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Consistent Mime Handling

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Mime Sniffing Safety Feature

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > MK Protocol Security Restriction

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Notification bar

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Protection From Zone Elevation

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Restrict ActiveX Install

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Restrict File Download

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Internet Explorer > Security Features > Scripted Window Security Restrictions

  • Internet Explorer Processes
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > MAPS

  • Configure the 'Block at First Sight' feature
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > Real-time Protection

  • Turn on process scanning whenever real-time protection is enabled
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > Scan

  • Scan packed executables
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus

  • Turn off routine remediation
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Connection Client

  • Do not allow passwords to be saved
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Device and Resource Redirection

  • Do not allow drive redirection
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host > Security

  • Always prompt for password upon connection
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Require secure RPC communication
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Set client connection encryption level
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Encryption Level
      Baseline default: High Level

Windows Components > RSS Feeds

  • Prevent downloading of enclosures
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Windows Logon Options

  • Enable MPR notifications for the system
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Sign-in and lock last interactive user automatically after a restart
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Windows PowerShell

  • Turn on PowerShell Script Block Logging
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Log script block invocation start / stop events:
      Baseline default: False

Windows Components > Windows Remote Management (WinRM) > WinRM Client

  • Allow Basic authentication
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Allow unencrypted traffic
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Disallow Digest authentication
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Components > Windows Remote Management (WinRM) > WinRM Service

  • Allow Basic authentication
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Allow unencrypted traffic
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Disallow WinRM from storing RunAs credentials
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Auditing

  • Account Logon Audit Credential Validation
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Account Logon Logoff Audit Account Lockout
    Baseline default: Failure
    Learn more

  • Account Logon Logoff Audit Group Membership
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Account Logon Logoff Audit Logon
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Audit Authentication Policy Change
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Audit Changes to Audit Policy
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Audit File Share Access
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Audit Other Logon Logoff Events
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Audit Security Group Management
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Audit Security System Extension
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Audit Special Logon
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Audit User Account Management
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Detailed Tracking Audit PNP Activity
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Detailed Tracking Audit Process Creation
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • Object Access Audit Detailed File Share
    Baseline default: Failure
    Learn more

  • Object Access Audit Other Object Access Events
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Object Access Audit Removable Storage
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Policy Change Audit MPSSVC Rule Level Policy Change
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • Policy Change Audit Other Policy Change Events
    Baseline default: Failure
    Learn more

  • Privilege Use Audit Sensitive Privilege Use
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • System Audit Other System Events
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

  • System Audit Security State Change
    Baseline default: Success
    Learn more

  • System Audit System Integrity
    Baseline default: Success+ Failure
    Learn more

Browser

  • Allow Password Manager
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Allow Smart Screen
    Baseline default: Allow
    Learn more

  • Prevent Cert Error Overrides
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent Smart Screen Prompt Override
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent Smart Screen Prompt Override For Files
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Data Protection

  • Allow Direct Memory Access
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

Defender

  • Allow Archive Scanning
    Baseline default: Allowed. Scans the archive files.
    Learn more

  • Allow Behavior Monitoring
    Baseline default: Allowed. Turns on real-time behavior monitoring.
    Learn more

  • Allow Cloud Protection
    Baseline default: Allowed. Turns on Cloud Protection.
    Learn more

  • Allow Full Scan Removable Drive Scanning
    Baseline default: Allowed. Scans removable drives.
    Learn more

  • Allow On Access Protection
    Baseline default: Allowed.
    Learn more

  • Allow Realtime Monitoring
    Baseline default: Allowed. Turns on and runs the real-time monitoring service.
    Learn more

  • Allow scanning of all downloaded files and attachments
    Baseline default: Allowed.
    Learn more

  • Allow Script Scanning
    Baseline default: Allowed.
    Learn more

    • Block execution of potentially obfuscated scripts
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block Win32 API calls from Office macros
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block Office communication application from creating child processes
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block all Office applications from creating child processes
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block JavaScript or VBScript from launching downloaded executable content
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block untrusted and unsigned processes that run from USB
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block Adobe Reader from creating child processes
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block credential stealing from the Windows local security authority subsystem
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block Office applications from creating executable content
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block Office applications from injecting code into other processes
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more
    • Block executable content from email client and webmail
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more

  • Cloud Block Level
    Baseline default: High
    Learn more

  • Cloud Extended Timeout
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: 50
    Learn more

  • Disable Local Admin Merge
    Baseline default: Disable Local Admin Merge
    Learn more

  • Enable File Hash Computation
    Baseline default: Enable Learn more

  • Enable Network Protection
    Baseline default: Enabled (block mode)
    Learn more

  • Hide Exclusions From Local Admins
    Baseline default: If you enable this setting, local admins will no longer be able to see the exclusion list in Windows Security App or via PowerShell.
    Learn more

  • PUA Protection
    Baseline default: PUA Protection on. Detected items are blocked. They will show in history along with other threats.
    Learn more

  • Real Time Scan Direction
    Baseline default: Monitor all files (bi-directional).
    Learn more

  • Submit Samples Consent
    Baseline default: Send all samples automatically.
    Learn more

Device Guard

  • Configure System Guard Launch
    Baseline default: Unmanaged Enables Secure Launch if supported by hardware
    Learn more

  • Credential Guard
    Baseline default: (Enabled with UEFI lock) Turns on Credential Guard with UEFI lock.
    Learn more

  • Enable Virtualization Based Security
    Baseline default: Enable virtualization based security.
    Learn more

  • Require Platform Security Features
    Baseline default: Turns on VBS with Secure Boot.
    Learn more

Device Lock

  • Device Password Enabled
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more
    • Device Password History
      Baseline default: Configured
      Value: 24
      Learn more
    • Min Device Password Length
      Baseline default: Configured
      Value: 14
      Learn more

Dma Guard

  • Device Enumeration Policy
    Baseline default: Block all (Most restrictive)
    Learn more

Experience

  • Allow Windows Spotlight (User)
    Baseline default: Allow
    Learn more
    • Allow Windows Consumer Features
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more
    • Allow Third Party Suggestions In Windows Spotlight (User)
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more

Firewall

  • Enable Domain Network Firewall
    Baseline default: True
    Learn more

    • Enable Log Success Connections
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Successful Connections
      Learn more
    • Default Outbound Action
      Baseline default: Allow
      Learn more
    • Enable Log Dropped Packets
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Dropped Packets
      Learn more
    • Disable Inbound Notifications
      Baseline default: True
      Learn more
    • Log Max File Size
      Baseline default: 16384
      Learn more
    • Default Inbound Action for Domain Profile
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more

  • Enable Private Network Firewall
    Baseline default: True
    Learn more

    • Log Max File Size
      Baseline default: 16384
      Learn more
    • Default Inbound Action for Private Profile
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more
    • Enable Log Success Connections
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Successful Connections
      Learn more
    • Enable Log Dropped Packets
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Dropped Packets
      Learn more
    • Default Outbound Action
      Baseline default: Allow
      Learn more
    • Disable Inbound Notifications
      Baseline default: True
      Learn more

  • Enable Public Network Firewall
    Baseline default: True
    Learn more

    • Enable Log Dropped Packets
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Dropped Packets
      Learn more
    • Log Max File Size
      Baseline default: 16384
      Learn more
    • Default Outbound Action
      Baseline default: Allow
      Learn more
    • Disable Inbound Notifications
      Baseline default: True
      Learn more
    • Default Inbound Action for Public Profile
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more
    • Allow Local Policy Merge
      Baseline default: False
      Learn more
    • Enable Log Success Connections
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Successful Connections
      Learn more
    • Allow Local Ipsec Policy Merge
      Baseline default: False
      Learn more

Lanman Workstation

  • Enable Insecure Guest Logons
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Local Policies Security Options

  • Accounts Limit Local Account Use Of Blank Passwords To Console Logon Only
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Interactive Logon Machine Inactivity Limit
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: 900
    Learn more

  • Interactive Logon Smart Card Removal Behavior
    Baseline default: Lock Workstation
    Learn more

  • Microsoft Network Client Digitally Sign Communications Always
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Microsoft Network Client Send Unencrypted Password To Third Party SMB Servers
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Microsoft Network Server Digitally Sign Communications Always
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Network Access Do Not Allow Anonymous Enumeration Of SAM Accounts
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Network Access Do Not Allow Anonymous Enumeration Of Sam Accounts And Shares
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Network Access Restrict Anonymous Access To Named Pipes And Shares Baseline default Enable Learn more

  • Network Access Restrict Clients Allowed To Make Remote Calls To SAM
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: O:BAG:BAD:(A;;RC;;;BA)
    Learn more

  • Network Security Do Not Store LAN Manager Hash Value On Next Password Change
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Network Security LAN Manager Authentication Level
    Baseline default: Send LM and NTLMv2 responses only. Refuse LM and NTLM
    Learn more

  • Network Security Minimum Session Security For NTLMSSP Based Clients
    Baseline default: Require NTLM and 128-bit encryption
    Learn more

  • Network Security Minimum Session Security For NTLMSSP Based Servers
    Baseline default: Require NTLM and 128-bit encryption
    Learn more

  • User Account Control Behavior Of The Elevation Prompt For Administrators
    Baseline default: Prompt for consent on the secure desktop
    Learn more

  • User Account Control Behavior Of The Elevation Prompt For Standard Users
    Baseline default: Automatically deny elevation requests
    Learn more

  • User Account Control Detect Application Installations And Prompt For Elevation Baseline default: Enable Learn more

  • User Account Control Only Elevate UI Access Applications That Are Installed In Secure Locations Baseline default: Enabled: Application runs with UIAccess integrity only if it resides in secure location. Learn more

  • User Account Control Run All Administrators In Admin Approval Mode
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • User Account Control Use Admin Approval Mode
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • User Account Control Virtualize File And Registry Write Failures To Per User Locations
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Local Security Authority

  • Configure Lsa Protected Process
    Baseline default: Enabled with UEFI lock. LSA will run as protected process and this configuration is UEFI locked.
    Learn more

Microsoft App Store

  • Allow Game DVR
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • MSI Allow User Control Over Install
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • MSI Always Install With Elevated Privileges
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Microsoft Edge

SmartScreen settings

  • Configure Microsoft Defender SmartScreen
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Prevent bypassing Microsoft Defender SmartScreen prompts for sites
    Baseline default: Enabled

Privacy

  • Let Apps Activate With Voice Above Lock
    Baseline default: Force deny. Windows apps cannot be activated by voice while the screen is locked, and users cannot change it.
    Learn more
  • Allow Indexing Encrypted Stores Or Items
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

Smart Screen

  • Enable Smart Screen In Shell
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent Override For Files In Shell
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Enhanced Phishing Protection

  • Notify Malicious
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Notify Password Reuse
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Notify Unsafe App
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Service Enabled
    Baseline default: Enabled

System Services

  • Configure Xbox Accessory Management Service Startup Mode
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Configure Xbox Live Auth Manager Service Startup Mode
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Configure Xbox Live Game Save Service Startup Mode
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Configure Xbox Live Networking Service Startup Mode
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Task Scheduler

  • Enable Xbox Game Save Task
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

User Rights

  • Access From Network
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values: Administrators, Remote Desktop Users
    Learn more

  • Allow Local Log On
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values: Administrators, Users
    Learn more

  • Backup Files And Directories
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Create Global Objects
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values: Administrators, LOCAL SERVICE, NETWORK SERVICE, SERVICE
    Learn more

  • Create Page File
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Debug Programs
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Deny Access From Network
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: NT AUTHORITY\Local Account
    Learn more

  • Deny Remote Desktop Services Log On
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: NT AUTHORITY\Local Account
    Learn more

  • Impersonate Client
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values: Administrators, SERVICE, Local Service, Network Service
    Learn more

  • Load Unload Device Drivers
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Manage Auditing And Security Log
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Manage Volume
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Modify Firmware Environment
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Profile Single Process
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Remote Shutdown
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Restore Files And Directories
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

  • Take Ownership
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value: Administrators
    Learn more

Virtualization Based Technology

  • Hypervisor Enforced Code Integrity
    Baseline default: (Enabled with UEFI lock) Turns on Hypervisor-Protected Code Integrity with UEFI lock.
    Learn more

Wi-Fi Settings

  • Allow Auto Connect To Wi Fi Sense Hotspots
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Allow Internet Sharing
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

Windows Hello For Business

  • Facial Features Use Enhanced Anti Spoofing
    Baseline default: true
    Learn more

Windows Ink Workspace

  • Allow Windows Ink Workspace
    Baseline default: Ink workspace is enabled (feature is turned on), but the user cannot access it above the lock screen.
    Learn more

LAPS

  • Backup Directory
    Baseline default: Backup the password to Azure AD only
    Learn more

Above Lock

  • Voice activate apps from locked screen:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn More

  • Block display of toast notifications:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn More

App Runtime

  • Microsoft accounts optional for Microsoft store apps:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Application Management

  • Block app installations with elevated privileges:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block user control over installations:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block game DVR (desktop only):
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

Audit

Audit settings configure the events that are generated for the conditions of the setting.

  • Account Logon Audit Credential Validation (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Account Logon Audit Kerberos Authentication Service (Device):
    Baseline default: None

  • Account Logon Logoff Audit Account Lockout (Device):
    Baseline default: Failure

  • Account Logon Logoff Audit Group Membership (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Account Logon Logoff Audit Logon (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Audit Other Logon Logoff Events (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Audit Special Logon (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Audit Security Group Management (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Audit User Account Management (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Detailed Tracking Audit PNP Activity (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Detailed Tracking Audit Process Creation (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Object Access Audit Detailed File Share (Device):
    Baseline default: Failure

  • Audit File Share Access (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Object Access Audit Other Object Access Events (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Object Access Audit Removable Storage (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Audit Authentication Policy Change (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Policy Change Audit MPSSVC Rule Level Policy Change (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • Policy Change Audit Other Policy Change Events (Device):
    Baseline default: Failure

  • Audit Changes to Audit Policy (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Privilege Use Audit Sensitive Privilege Use (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • System Audit Other System Events (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

  • System Audit Security State Change (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • Audit Security System Extension (Device):
    Baseline default: Success

  • System Audit System Integrity (Device):
    Baseline default: Success and Failure

Auto Play

  • Auto play default auto run behavior:
    Baseline default: Do not execute
    Learn more

  • Auto play mode:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Block auto play for non-volume devices:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

BitLocker

  • BitLocker removable drive policy:
    Baseline default: Configure
    Learn more

    • Block write access to removable data-drives not protected by BitLocker:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

Browser

  • Block Password Manager:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Require SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge Legacy:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block malicious site access:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block unverified file download:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Prevent user from overriding certificate errors:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

Connectivity

  • Configure secure access to UNC paths:
    Baseline default: Configure Windows to only allow access to the specified UNC paths after fulfilling additional security requirements
    Learn more

    • Hardened UNC path list:
      Baseline default: Not configured by default. Manually add one or more hardened UNC paths.

  • Block downloading of print drivers over HTTP:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Block Internet download for web publishing and online ordering wizards:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Credentials Delegation

  • Remote host delegation of non-exportable credentials:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Credentials UI

  • Enumerate administrators:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Data Protection

  • Block direct memory access:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

Device Guard

  • Virtualization based security:
    Baseline default: Enable VBS with secure boot

  • Enable virtualization based security:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Launch system guard:
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Turn on credential guard:
    Baseline default: Enable with UEFI lock
    Learn more

Device Installation

  • Block hardware device installation by setup classes:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

    • Remove matching hardware devices:
      Baseline default: Yes

    • Block list:
      Baseline default: Not configured by default. Manually add one or more Identifiers.

  • Hardware device installation by device identifiers:
    Baseline default: Block hardware device installation
    Learn more

    • Remove matching hardware devices:
      Baseline default: Yes

    • Hardware device identifiers that are blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes

  • Hardware device installation by setup classes:
    Baseline default: Block hardware device installation
    Learn more

    • Remove matching hardware devices:
      Baseline default: No default configuration

    • Hardware device identifiers that are blocked:
      Baseline default: No default configuration

Device Lock

  • Require password:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

    • Required password:
      Baseline default: Alphanumeric
      Learn more

    • Password expiration (days):
      Baseline default: 60
      Learn more

    • Password minimum character set count:
      Baseline default: 3
      Learn more

    • Prevent reuse of previous passwords:
      Baseline default: 24
      Learn more

    • Minimum password length:
      Baseline default: 8
      Learn more

    • Number of sign-in failures before wiping device:
      Baseline default: 10
      Learn more

    • Block simple passwords:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

  • Password minimum age in days:
    Baseline default: 1
    Learn more

  • Prevent use of camera:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prevent slide show:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

DMA Guard

  • Enumeration of external devices incompatible with Kernel DMA Protection:
    Baseline default: Block all

Event Log Service

  • Application log maximum file size in KB:
    Baseline default: 32768
    Learn more

  • System log maximum file size in KB:
    Baseline default: 32768
    Learn more

  • Security log maximum file size in KB:
    Baseline default: 196608
    Learn more

Experience

  • Block Windows Spotlight:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

    • Block third-party suggestions in Windows Spotlight:
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more

    • Block consumer specific features:
      Baseline default: Not configured
      Learn more

Exploit Guard

  • Upload XML:
    Baseline default: Sample xml is provided
    Learn more

File Explorer

  • Block data execution prevention:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Block heap termination on corruption:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Firewall

For more information, see 2.2.2 FW_PROFILE_TYPE in the Windows Protocols documentation.

  • Firewall profile domain:
    Baseline default: Configure
    Learn more

    • Inbound connections blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Outbound connections required:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Inbound notifications blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Firewall enabled:
      Baseline default: Allowed
      Learn more

  • Firewall profile private:
    Baseline default: Configure
    Learn more

    • Inbound connections blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Outbound connections required:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Inbound notifications blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Firewall enabled:
      Baseline default: Allowed
      Learn more

  • Firewall profile public:
    Baseline default: Configure
    Learn more

    • Inbound connections blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Outbound connections required:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Inbound notifications blocked:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Firewall enabled:
      Baseline default: Allowed
      Learn more

    • Connection security rules from group policy not merged:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

    • Policy rules from group policy not merged:
      Baseline default: Yes
      Learn more

Internet Explorer

  • Internet Explorer encryption support:
    Baseline default: Two items: TLS v1.1 and TLS v1.2
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer prevent managing smart screen filter:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone script Active X controls marked safe for scripting:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone file downloads:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer certificate address mismatch warning:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer enhanced protected mode:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer fallback to SSL3:
    Baseline default: No sites
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer software when signature is invalid:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer check server certificate revocation:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer check signatures on downloaded programs:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes consistent MIME handling:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer bypass smart screen warnings:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer bypass smart screen warnings about uncommon files:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer crash detection:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer download enclosures:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer ignore certificate errors:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer disable processes in enhanced protected mode:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer security settings check:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer Active X controls in protected mode:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer users adding sites:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer users changing policies:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer block outdated Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer include all network paths:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone access to data sources:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone automatic prompt for file downloads:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone copy and paste via script:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone drag and drop or copy and paste files:
    Baseline default: Disabled.
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone less privileged sites:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone loading of XAML files:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone .NET Framework reliant components:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone allow only approved domains to use ActiveX controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone allow only approved domains to use tdc ActiveX controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone scripting of web browser controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone script initiated windows:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone scriptlets:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone smart screen:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone updates to status bar via script:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone user data persistence:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone allow VBscript to run:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone do not run antimalware against ActiveX controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone download signed ActiveX controls:
    Baseline default: DisableBaseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone download unsigned ActiveX controls:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone cross site scripting filter:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone drag content from different domains across windows:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone drag content from different domains within windows:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone protected mode:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone include local path when uploading files to server:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone initialize and script Active X controls not marked as safe:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone launch applications and files in an iframe:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone logon options:
    Baseline default: Prompt
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone navigate windows and frames across different domains:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone run .NET Framework reliant components signed with Authenticode:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone security warning for potentially unsafe files:
    Baseline default: Prompt
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer internet zone popup blocker:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer intranet zone do not run antimalware against Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer intranet zone initialize and script Active X controls not marked as safe:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer intranet zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: High safety
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer local machine zone do not run antimalware against Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer local machine zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer locked down internet zone smart screen:
    Baseline default: Enabled.
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer locked down intranet zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer locked down local machine zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer locked down restricted zone smart screen:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer locked down restricted zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable Java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer locked down trusted zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes MIME sniffing safety feature:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes MK protocol security restriction:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes notification bar:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer prevent per user installation of Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes protection from zone elevation:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer remove run this time button for outdated Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes restrict Active X install:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone access to data sources:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone active scripting:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone automatic prompt for file downloads:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone binary and script behaviors:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone copy and paste via script:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone drag and drop or copy and paste files:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone less privileged sites:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone loading of XAML files:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone meta refresh:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone .NET Framework reliant components:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone allow only approved domains to use Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone allow only approved domains to use tdc Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone scripting of web browser controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone script initiated windows:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone scriptlets:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone smart screen:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone updates to status bar via script:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone user data persistence:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone allow vbscript to run:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone do not run antimalware against Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone download signed Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone download unsigned Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone cross site scripting filter:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone drag content from different domains across windows:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone drag content from different domains within windows:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone include local path when uploading files to server:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone initialize and script Active X controls not marked as safe:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: Disable java
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone launch applications and files in an iFrame:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone logon options:
    Baseline default: Anonymous
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone navigate windows and frames across different domains:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone run Active X controls and plugins:
    Baseline default: Disable.
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone run .NET Framework reliant components signed with Authenticode:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone scripting of java applets:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone security warning for potentially unsafe files:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone protected mode:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone popup blocker:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes restrict file download:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer processes scripted window security restrictions:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer security zones use only machine settings:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer use Active X installer service:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer trusted zone do not run antimalware against Active X controls:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer trusted zone initialize and script Active X controls not marked as safe:
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer trusted zone java permissions:
    Baseline default: High safety
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer auto complete:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Local Policies Security Options

  • Block remote logon with blank password:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Minutes of lock screen inactivity until screen saver activates:
    Baseline default: 15
    Learn more

  • Smart card removal behavior:
    Baseline default: Lock workstation
    Learn more

  • Require client to always digitally sign communications:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Prevent clients from sending unencrypted passwords to third party SMB servers:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Require server digitally signing communications always:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Prevent anonymous enumeration of SAM accounts:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block anonymous enumeration of SAM accounts and shares:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Restrict anonymous access to named pipes and shares:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Allow remote calls to security accounts manager:
    Baseline default: O:BAG:BAD:(A;;RC;;;BA)
    Learn more

  • Prevent storing LAN manager hash value on next password change:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Authentication level:
    Baseline default: Send NTLMv2 response only. Refuse LM and NTLM
    Learn more

  • Minimum session security for NTLM SSP based clients:
    Baseline default: Require NTLM V2 128 encryption
    Learn more

  • Minimum session security for NTLM SSP based servers:
    Baseline default: Require NTLM V2 and 128 bit encryption
    Learn more

  • Administrator elevation prompt behavior:
    Baseline default: Prompt for consent on the secure desktop
    Learn more

  • Standard user elevation prompt behavior:
    Baseline default: Automatically deny elevation requests
    Learn more

  • Detect application installations and prompt for elevation:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Only allow UI access applications for secure locations:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Require admin approval mode for administrators:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Use admin approval mode:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Virtualize file and registry write failures to per user locations:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

Microsoft Defender

  • Block Adobe Reader from creating child processes:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Block Office communication apps launch in a child process:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Enter how often (0-24 hours) to check for security intelligence updates
    Baseline default: 4
    Learn more

  • Scan type
    Baseline default: Quick scan
    Learn more

  • Defender schedule scan day:
    Baseline default: Everyday

  • Defender scan start time:
    Baseline default: Not configured

  • Cloud-delivered protection level:
    Baseline default: Not Configured
    Learn more

  • Scan network files:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Turn on real-time protection
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan scripts that are used in Microsoft browsers
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan archive files:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Turn on behavior monitoring:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Turn on cloud-delivered protection:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan incoming mail messages:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan removable drives during a full scan:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block Office applications from injecting code into other processes:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block Office applications from creating executable content
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block all Office applications from creating child processes
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block Win32 API calls from Office macro:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block execution of potentially obfuscated scripts (js/vbs/ps):
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block JavaScript or VBScript from launching downloaded executable content:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block executable content download from email and webmail clients:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block credential stealing from the Windows local security authority subsystem (lsass.exe):
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Defender potentially unwanted app action:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block untrusted and unsigned processes that run from USB:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Enable network protection:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Defender sample submission consent type:
    Baseline default: Send safe samples automatically
    Learn more

  • Block Adobe Reader from creating child processes:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Block Office communication apps launch in a child process:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Enter how often (0-24 hours) to check for security intelligence updates
    Baseline default: 4
    Learn more

  • Scan type
    Baseline default: Quick scan
    Learn more

  • Defender schedule scan day:
    Baseline default: Everyday

  • Cloud-delivered protection level:
    Baseline default: Not Configured
    Learn more

  • Scan network files:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Turn on real-time protection
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan scripts that are used in Microsoft browsers
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan archive files:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Turn on behavior monitoring:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Turn on cloud-delivered protection:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan incoming mail messages:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan removable drives during a full scan:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block Office applications from injecting code into other processes:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block Office applications from creating executable content
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block all Office applications from creating child processes
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block Win32 API calls from Office macro:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block execution of potentially obfuscated scripts (js/vbs/ps):
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block JavaScript or VBScript from launching downloaded executable content:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block executable content download from email and webmail clients:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block credential stealing from the Windows local security authority subsystem (lsass.exe):
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Defender potentially unwanted app action:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Block untrusted and unsigned processes that run from USB:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Enable network protection:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Defender sample submission consent type:
    Baseline default: Send safe samples automatically
    Learn more

MS Security Guide

  • SMB v1 client driver start configuration:
    Baseline default: Disabled driver
    Learn more

  • Apply UAC restrictions to local accounts on network logon:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Structured exception handling overwrite protection:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • SMB v1 server:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Digest authentication:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

MSS Legacy

  • Network IPv6 source routing protection level:
    Baseline default: Highest protection
    Learn more

  • Network IP source routing protection level:
    Baseline default: Highest protection
    Learn more

  • Network ignore NetBIOS name release requests except from WINS servers:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Network ICMP redirects override OSPF generated routes:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Power

  • Require password on wake while on battery:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Require password on wake while plugged in:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Standby states when sleeping while on battery:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Standby states when sleeping while plugged in:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Remote Assistance

  • Remote Assistance solicited:
    Baseline default: Disable Remote Assistance
    Learn more

Remote Desktop Services

  • Remote desktop services client connection encryption level:
    Baseline default: High
    Learn more

  • Block drive redirection:
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Block password saving:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Prompt for password upon connection:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Secure RPC communication:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Remote Management

  • Block client digest authentication:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Block storing run as credentials:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Client basic authentication:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Basic authentication:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Client unencrypted traffic:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

  • Unencrypted traffic:
    Baseline default: Disabled
    Learn more

Remote Procedure Call

  • RPC unauthenticated client options:
    Baseline default: Authenticated
    Learn more

Search

  • Disable indexing encrypted items:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

Smart Screen

  • Turn on Windows SmartScreen
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block users from ignoring SmartScreen warnings
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

System

  • System boot start driver initialization:
    Baseline default: Good unknown and bad critical
    Learn more

Wi-Fi

  • Block Automatically connecting to Wi-Fi hotspots:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Block Internet sharing:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

Windows Connection Manager

  • Block connection to non-domain networks:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows Ink Workspace

  • Ink Workspace:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Windows PowerShell

  • PowerShell script block logging:
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

Next steps