Secure Configuration of Systems on Windows 11

Secure Your Windows 11 Systems with These Configuration Steps

Properly configuring your systems is essential for protecting your business from cyber threats. This guide will walk you through setting up secure configurations on Windows 11, aligning with CIS Control 4.4 (Secure Configuration of Enterprise Assets and Software).

Before you start, ensure you have a device running Windows 11 and are logged in with an administrator account.

Step 1: Open Settings

  1. Click on the Start menu.
  2. Select the Settings icon (gear-shaped).

Step 2: Navigate to Privacy & Security

  1. In the Settings window, click on Privacy & Security in the left-hand menu.

Step 3: Configure Security Settings

  1. Windows Security: Click on Windows Security.
    • Ensure all protections (virus & threat protection, account protection, firewall & network protection) are enabled and configured.
  2. Device Security: Click on Device security.
    • Enable features like Core isolation and Secure Boot for additional protection against malware and threats.
  3. App & Browser Control: Click on App & browser control.
    • Set Check apps and files to Warn or Block.
    • Enable Exploit protection settings to mitigate potential exploits.
  4. Firewall & Network Protection: Click on Firewall & network protection.
    • Ensure the firewall is active for all network types (Domain, Private, Public).
    • Click on Allow an app through firewall to review and restrict apps that can communicate through the firewall.
  5. Device Performance & Health: Click on Device performance & health.
    • Regularly check health reports to ensure optimal device performance.

The Importance of Secure Configuration

Securely configuring your systems helps prevent unauthorized access and protects against various cyber threats, maintaining the integrity and security of your business operations.

This step satisfies CIS Control 4.4: Secure Configuration of Enterprise Assets and Software, which focuses on configuring systems securely to reduce vulnerabilities.

By following these steps, you can significantly improve the security of your Windows 11 systems. Stay tuned for more tips on effectively managing your business’s cybersecurity risk.

For more details on securing your business, check out our CyberGuardian Framework.

Coming soon: “How to Configure Secure Configuration of Systems on Windows 11 with Intune in Microsoft 365 Business Premium”