Windows Server Security Best Practices – Step-by-Step Guide

1. Keep the Server Updated

• Enable Windows Update or use WSUS for patch management.
• Regular updates fix known vulnerabilities.
• Tip: Automate reboots during off-hours.

2. Use Secure Administrative Access

• Use RDP over VPN, never expose RDP to the internet.
• Use Just Enough Administration (JEA) and Just-in-Time (JIT) access.
• Deploy LAPS (Local Admin Password Solution).

3. Configure Windows Firewall

• Enable and configure Windows Defender Firewall with appropriate inbound/outbound rules.
• Use GPOs to enforce firewall settings across servers.

4. Enable Windows Defender & Antivirus

• Use built-in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint or another reputable AV.
• Enable real-time protection, cloud-delivered protection, and automatic sample submission.

5. Remove Unnecessary Roles & Features

• Use Server Manager to uninstall unused components.
• Follow the 'minimal install' principle for new deployments.

6. Implement Group Policy Security Settings

• Configure security baselines using Group Policy or Microsoft Security Compliance Toolkit.
• Key GPOs: password policies, account lockout policies, audit policies, User Rights Assignment.

7. Use Secure Protocols Only

• Disable SMBv1, TLS 1.0/1.1, LM/NTLMv1.
• Enforce TLS 1.2+, Kerberos, SMBv3.
• Use PowerShell or registry changes to disable old protocols.

8. Enable and Review Audit Logs

• Enable Advanced Audit Policy Configuration and forward logs to a SIEM.
• Monitor for failed login attempts, privilege escalations, and config changes.

9. Limit Administrator Privileges

• Use RBAC (Role-Based Access Control).
• Create separate admin accounts for elevated tasks.
• Use Privileged Access Workstations (PAWs).

10. Enable BitLocker Encryption

• Encrypt system and data drives using BitLocker.
• Store recovery keys in Active Directory or Azure AD.

11. Configure Secure Remote Desktop (RDP)

• Use Network Level Authentication (NLA).
• Enable RDP Gateway.
• Limit users/groups allowed to access via RDP.
• Tip: Change the default RDP port (3389) if possible.

12. Regularly Backup and Test Restore

• Schedule automated backups using Windows Server Backup or third-party tools.
• Keep offline/offsite backups and test recovery plans.

13. Secure Domain Controllers

• Place in separate OU with strict GPOs.
• Deny interactive logon where not necessary.
• Monitor replication and AD changes.
• Use Read-Only Domain Controllers (RODC) for branch sites.

14. Use Secure DNS Settings

• Harden DNS servers, restrict zone transfers, and use DNSSEC where possible.
• Prevents DNS poisoning/spoofing attacks.

15. Conduct Regular Security Assessments

• Perform regular vulnerability scans, penetration tests, internal audits.
• Tools: Microsoft Defender Vulnerability Management, Nessus, OpenVAS.