List of the settings in the Windows 365 Cloud PC security baseline in Intune

Choose a version

This article is a reference for the settings that are available in the Windows 365 Cloud PC security baseline that you can deploy with Microsoft Intune.

For each setting we list 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, we include 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 prior to 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:

Windows 365 Cloud PC security baseline version 24H1:

The settings in this baseline 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.

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

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
    • Prevented Classes
      Baseline default: {d48179be-ec20-11d1-b6b8-00c04fa372a7}

    • Also apply to matching devices that are already installed
      Baseline default: True

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 over HTTP
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

  • Turn off Internet download for Web publishing and online ordering wizards
    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 > 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 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: 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
  • Use Pop-up Blocker
    Baseline default: Enabled
    Learn more

    • Use Pop-up Blocker
      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

  • 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

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: Block
      Learn more

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

    • Block Office communication application from creating child processes
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more

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

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

    • Block credential stealing from the Windows local security authority subsystem
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more

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

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

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

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

    • Block executable content from email client and webmail
      Baseline default: Block
      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: Allow
      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 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

    • Log Max File Size
      Baseline default: Configured
      Value: 16384
      Learn more

    • Default Inbound Action for Domain Profile
      Baseline default: Block
      Learn more

    • Enable Log Success Connections
      Baseline default: Enable Logging Of Successful Connections
      Learn more

  • Enable Private Network Firewall
    Baseline default: True
    Learn more

    • Log Max File Size
      Baseline default: Configured
      Value: 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

    • Disable Inbound Notifications
      Baseline default: True
      Learn more

    • Default Outbound Action
      Baseline default: Allow
      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: Configured
      Value: 16384
      Learn more

    • Default Outbound Action
      Baseline default: Allow
      Learn more

    • Disable Inbound Notifications
      Baseline default: True
      Learn more

    • Allow Local Policy Merge
      Baseline default: False
      Learn more

    • Default Inbound Action for Public Profile
      Baseline default: Block
      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 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

Content settings

  • Default Adobe Flash setting
    Baseline default: Disabled

  • Default Adobe Flash setting (User)
    Baseline default: Disabled

  • Minimum TLS version enabled
    Baseline default: Enabled

    • Minimum TLS version enabled (Device)
      Baseline default: TlS 1.2
  • Minimum TLS version enabled (User)
    Baseline default: Enabled

    • Minimum TLS version enabled (User)
      Baseline default: TLS 1.2

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

User Rights

  • Access From Network
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values:

  • Allow Local Log On
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values:

  • Backup Files And Directories
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Create Global Objects
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values:

    • *S-1-5-32-544
    • *S-1-5-19
    • *S-1-5-20
    • *S-1-5-6
      Learn more
  • Create Page File
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Debug Programs
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Deny Access From Network
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Deny Remote Desktop Services Log On
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Impersonate Client
    Baseline default: Configured
    Values:

    • *S-1-5-32-544
    • *S-1-5-6
    • *S-1-5-19
    • *S-1-5-20
      Learn more
  • Load Unload Device Drivers
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Manage Auditing And Security Log
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Manage Volume
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Modify Firmware Environment
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Profile Single Process
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Remote Shutdown
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Restore Files And Directories
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

  • Take Ownership
    Baseline default: Configured
    Value:

Virtualization Based Technology

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

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

Windows 365 Cloud PC security baseline November 2021:

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

Attack Surface Reduction Rules

For general information, see Learn about attack surface reduction rules.

  • Block Office communication apps from creating child processes:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

  • Block Adobe Reader from creating child processes:
    Baseline default: Enable
    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 JavaScript or VBScript from launching downloaded executable content:
    Baseline default: Block
    Learn more

  • Enable network protection:
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more

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

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

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

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

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

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

Browser

  • Block Password Manager:
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

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

  • Block malicious site:
    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:
      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

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
      Not configured by default. Manually add one or more Identifiers.

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

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

View the full list of Internet Explorer CSPs.

  • Internet Explorer encryption support
    Baseline defaults: 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: Disable
    Learn more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Internet Explorer crash detection
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

  • Internet Explorer download enclosures
    Baseline default: Disable
    Learn more

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

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

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

  • Internet Explorer internet zone allows 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 allows 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: 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: Enabled
    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: Disable
    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: Disable
    Learn more

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

  • Internet Explorer restricted zone allows 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 allows 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 and 128 bit 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

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

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

  • Additional amount of time (0-50 seconds) to extend cloud protection timeout
    Baseline default: 50
    Learn more

  • Scan all downloaded files and attachments
    Baseline default: Yes
    Learn more

  • Scan type
    Baseline default: Quick scan
    Learn more

  • Defender schedule scan day
    Baseline default: Everyday

  • Scheduled scan start time
    Baseline default: Not configured

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

  • Cloud-delivered protection level
    Baseline default: High
    Learn more

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

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

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

Microsoft Defender Antivirus Exclusions

Warning

Defining exclusions lowers the protection offered by Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Always evaluate the risks that are associated with implementing exclusions. Only exclude files you know aren't malicious.

For more information, see Exclusions overview in the Microsoft Defender documentation.

  • Defender Processes to exclude
    Baseline defaults: Not configured by default. Manually add one or more entries.

  • File extensions to exclude from scans and real-time protection
    Baseline defaults: Not configured by default. Manually add one or more entries.

  • Defender Files And Folders To Exclude
    Baseline default: Not configured by default. Manually add one or more entries.

Microsoft Edge

  • Control which extensions cannot be installed
    Baseline default: Enabled

    • Extension IDs the user should be prevented from installing (or * for all)
      Baseline default: Not configured by default. Manually add one or more IDs
  • Allow user-level native messaging hosts (installed without admin permissions)
    Baseline default: Disabled

  • Minimum SSL version enabled
    Baseline default: Enabled

    • Minimum SSL version enabled
      Baseline default: TLS 1.2
  • Allow users to proceed from the SSL warning page
    Baseline default: Disabled

  • Configure Microsoft Defender SmartScreen
    Baseline default: Enabled

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

  • Prevent bypassing of Microsoft Defender SmartScreen warnings about downloads
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Configure Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to block potentially unwanted apps
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Default Adobe Flash setting
    Baseline default: Enabled

    • Default Adobe Flash setting
      Baseline default: Block the Adobe Flash plugin
  • Enable saving passwords to the password manager
    Baseline default: Disabled

  • Enable site isolation for every site
    Baseline default: Enabled

  • Supported authentication schemes
    Baseline default: Enabled

    • Supported authentication schemes
      Baseline defaults: Two items: NTLM and Negotiate

MS Security Guide

  • SMB v1 client driver start configuration
    Baseline default: Disable 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

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

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

Windows Security

  • Enable tamper protection to prevent Microsoft Defender being disabled
    Baseline default: Enable
    Learn more