Enable Logging and Monitoring on Windows 11

Logging and monitoring are essential for detecting and responding to security incidents. This guide will show you how to enable logging and set up monitoring on Windows 11, aligning with CIS Control 6.4 (Centralized Log Management).

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure that you:

• Have a device running Windows 11.
• Are logged in with an administrator account.

Step 1 — Opening Event Viewer

First, access the Event Viewer to manage logs.

1. Click on the Start menu.
2. Type Event Viewer and select it from the search results.

Step 2 — Navigating to Windows Logs

Next, navigate to the Windows Logs section.

1. In the Event Viewer, expand Windows Logs in the left-hand menu.

Step 3 — Enabling Security Logging

Enable logging for security-related events.

1. Security Logs: Click on Security under Windows Logs.
2. Enable Auditing: Ensure that auditing is enabled for important security events. You may need to configure Group Policy settings to ensure comprehensive logging.

Step 4 — Configuring Group Policy for Advanced Logging

Use Group Policy Editor to configure advanced logging settings.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Advanced Audit Policy Configuration > Audit Policies.
4. Configure policies such as Audit Logon Events, Audit Account Management, and Audit Policy Change to ensure detailed logging.

Step 5 — Setting Up Log Monitoring

Set up monitoring to regularly review and analyze logs.

1. Use a log management tool or service to centralize and analyze logs. Tools like Microsoft Defender for Endpoint or third-party solutions can be used.
2. Ensure that logs are regularly reviewed and analyzed for any suspicious activity or security incidents.

Why Logging and Monitoring Matter

Enabling logging and monitoring helps you detect and respond to security incidents promptly. These practices are crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of your business operations.

Related CIS Control

This step satisfies CIS Control 6.4: Centralized Log Management, which focuses on the importance of maintaining and analyzing logs to detect and respond to security incidents.

By following these steps, you can enhance the logging and monitoring capabilities of your Windows 11 systems. Stay tuned for more tips on managing your business’s cybersecurity risk effectively.

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