Ongoing Maintenance for Windows 11 Security

Maintain Your Windows 11 Systems for Optimal Security

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your systems secure and running smoothly. This guide will walk you through performing ongoing maintenance on Windows 11, aligning with best practices in cybersecurity.

Step 1: Maintain Device and Software Inventory

Keep track of all devices and software used in your business.

  1. Inventory Tools: Use tools like Microsoft Intune or a simple spreadsheet to list all devices and software.
  2. Regular Updates: Update your inventory regularly to include new devices and software.

Related CIS Control: This step aligns with CIS Control 1: Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets, which focuses on maintaining a complete and accurate inventory of hardware and software.

Step 2: Manage User Accounts Effectively

Regularly review user accounts and access controls.

  1. User Accounts: Open Settings, go to Accounts, and click on Family & other users.
  2. Review Accounts: Regularly review and update user roles and access permissions.

Related CIS Control: This step aligns with CIS Control 16: Account Monitoring and Control, which focuses on actively managing the lifecycle of user accounts.

Step 3: Remediate Vulnerabilities Promptly

Fix any vulnerabilities in your systems as soon as they are found.

  1. Security Updates: Ensure automatic updates are enabled in Windows Update.
  2. Vulnerability Scanning: Use Windows Defender or a third-party tool to scan for vulnerabilities regularly.

Related CIS Control: This step aligns with CIS Control 7: Continuous Vulnerability Management, which focuses on continuously acquiring, assessing, and taking action on information regarding new security vulnerabilities.

Step 4: Ensure Network Security

Keep your network infrastructure secure and up-to-date.

  1. Firewall: Open Windows Security, go to Firewall & network protection, and ensure the firewall is on for all networks.
  2. Router Settings: Regularly update your router firmware and change default passwords.

Related CIS Control: This step aligns with CIS Control 9: Limitation and Control of Network Ports, Protocols, and Services, which focuses on managing network security configurations.

Step 5: Develop an Incident Response Plan

Be ready to respond quickly and effectively to security incidents.

  1. Plan Creation: Outline steps for identifying, containing, and eradicating threats.
  2. Regular Drills: Conduct regular incident response drills to ensure everyone knows their role.

Related CIS Control: This step aligns with CIS Control 17: Incident Response Management, which focuses on establishing and maintaining an incident response capability.

Why Ongoing Maintenance Matters

Regular maintenance helps prevent issues before they become significant problems, ensuring your system stays secure and efficient. By proactively managing your devices, software, user accounts, vulnerabilities, and network security, you can significantly reduce the risk of cybersecurity incidents and minimize their impact on your business.

By following these steps, you can maintain the security and performance 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.

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