How can you ensure Windows Server security is regularly updated?

1 Enable automatic updates

One of the easiest ways to ensure Windows Server security is regularly updated is to enable automatic updates, which will download and install the latest patches and fixes from Microsoft. Automatic updates can help you avoid security vulnerabilities, improve performance, and fix bugs. You can configure automatic updates using the Windows Update settings, Group Policy, or PowerShell. However, you should also test the updates before applying them to your production servers, to avoid compatibility issues or unexpected errors.

2 Use Windows Server Update Services

Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) is a tool that allows you to manage and distribute updates to your Windows Server machines from a central location. WSUS can help you save bandwidth, control the timing and frequency of updates, and monitor the status and compliance of your servers. You can use WSUS to create groups of servers, approve or decline updates, schedule updates, and generate reports. WSUS can also integrate with other tools, such as System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), to provide more advanced features and automation.

3 Implement security baselines

Security baselines are predefined sets of security settings that can help you configure and maintain Windows Server security in a consistent and optimal way. Security baselines can cover various aspects of Windows Server security, such as account policies, audit policies, firewall settings, password policies, and encryption settings. You can use security baselines to apply a standard level of security to your servers, or customize them to suit your specific needs and environment. You can use tools such as Security Compliance Toolkit (SCT) or Local Group Policy Editor (LGPE) to create and deploy security baselines.

5 Review and update security policies

Finally, you should review and update your security policies, which are the guidelines and rules that define how you manage and protect your Windows Server machines. Security policies can cover various topics, such as access control, backup and recovery, encryption, password management, and incident response. You should review your security policies regularly, to ensure they are aligned with your business objectives, compliance requirements, and best practices. You should also update your security policies when there are changes in your environment, such as new servers, applications, or threats.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?