Best Practices for Securing a Windows Server

Securing a Windows Server is critical to protect sensitive data, prevent cyberattacks, and ensure uptime. Hackers commonly target misconfigured servers, exploiting weaknesses in Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), open ports, and outdated security settings.

1. Keep Windows Server Updated

Why? Outdated servers are vulnerable to exploits and zero-day attacks.

✅ Best Practices for Windows Updates:

• Enable Automatic Updates in Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
• Apply security patches immediately (especially for critical vulnerabilities).
• Use PowerShell to check for pending updates:

    Get-WindowsUpdateLog
    

Tip: If you can't update immediately, enable Windows Defender Exploit Protection to mitigate risks.

2. Enable Windows Defender & Antivirus Protection

Why? Protects against viruses, malware, and ransomware.

✅ How to Secure Windows Defender:

• Enable Real-Time Protection:

    Set-MpPreference -DisableRealtimeMonitoring 0
    

• Schedule Automatic Scans:

    Set-MpPreference -ScanScheduleDay 0
    

• Enable Controlled Folder Access (blocks ransomware):

    Set-MpPreference -EnableControlledFolderAccess Enabled
    

3. Set Up & Harden Windows Firewall

Why? Prevents unauthorized access to your server.

✅ Best Practices for Windows Firewall:

• Enable & Configure Windows Defender Firewall:

    Set-NetFirewallProfile -Profile Domain,Public,Private -Enabled True
    

• Block all unnecessary inbound & outbound traffic.
• Create allow-lists for required ports (e.g., HTTP, HTTPS, RDP).

4. Secure Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Why? RDP is a common attack vector for brute-force attacks & ransomware.

✅ How to Secure RDP:

• Change the Default RDP Port (3389) to a Random Port:

    Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp" -Name PortNumber -Value 44350
    

• Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA):

    Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp" -Name UserAuthentication -Value 1
    

5. Monitor Server Logs & Enable Security Auditing

Why? Detects suspicious activity and security threats.

✅ How to Set Up Windows Server Logging & Auditing:

• Enable Windows Event Logging for:
• Failed login attempts
• Unauthorized file access
• Admin privilege escalations
• Use Windows Defender Security Center for real-time threat analysis.
• Configure SIEM solutions (Splunk, Microsoft Sentinel) for centralized log monitoring.

6. Final Thoughts

A secure Windows Server protects data, applications, and business operations from cyber threats.

✅ Key Takeaways:

• Keep Windows Server updated (patch vulnerabilities).
• Enable Windows Defender & Firewall.
• Harden RDP security & enforce strong password policies.
• Implement BitLocker encryption & RBAC user roles.
• Regularly monitor server logs and set up automated backups.

💡 Need to secure your Windows Server? Start applying these best practices today! 🚀