Mastering Windows Security

Enhance Windows security and protect your systems and servers from various cyber attacks Key FeaturesProtect your device using a zero-trust approach and advanced security techniquesImplement efficient security measures using Microsoft Intune, Configuration Manager, and Azure solutionsUnderstand how to create cyber-threat defense solutions effectivelyBook Description Are you looking for effective ways to protect Windows-based systems from being compromised by unauthorized users? Mastering Windows Security and Hardening is a detailed guide that helps you gain expertise when implementing efficient security measures and creating robust defense solutions. We will begin with an introduction to Windows security fundamentals, baselining, and the importance of building a baseline for an organization. As you advance, you will learn how to effectively secure and harden your Windows-based system, protect identities, and even manage access. In the concluding chapters, the book will take you through testing, monitoring, and security operations. In addition to this, you'll be equipped with the tools you need to ensure compliance and continuous monitoring through security operations. By the end of this book, you'll have developed a full understanding of the processes and tools involved in securing and hardening your Windows environment. What you will learnUnderstand baselining and learn the best practices for building a baselineGet to grips with identity management and access management on Windows-based systemsDelve into the device administration and remote management of Windows-based systemsExplore security tips to harden your Windows server and keep clients secureAudit, assess, and test to ensure controls are successfully applied and enforcedMonitor and report activities to stay on top of vulnerabilitiesWho this book is for This book is for system administrators, cybersecurity and technology professionals, solutions architects, or anyone interested in learning how to secure their Windows-based systems. A basic understanding of Windows security concepts, Intune, Configuration Manager, Windows PowerShell, and Microsoft Azure will help you get the best out of this book.

A comprehensive guide to administering and protecting the latest Windows 11 and Windows Server 2022 from the complex cyber threats Key Features Learn to protect your Windows environment using zero-trust and a multi-layered security approach Implement security controls using Intune, Configuration Manager, Defender for Endpoint, and more Understand how to onboard modern cyber-threat defense solutions for Windows clients Book DescriptionAre you looking for the most current and effective ways to protect Windows-based systems from being compromised by intruders? This updated second edition is a detailed guide that helps you gain the expertise to implement efficient security measures and create robust defense solutions using modern technologies. The first part of the book covers security fundamentals with details around building and implementing baseline controls. As you advance, you’ll learn how to effectively secure and harden your Windows-based systems through hardware, virtualization, networking, and identity and access management (IAM). The second section will cover administering security controls for Windows clients and servers with remote policy management using Intune, Configuration Manager, Group Policy, Defender for Endpoint, and other Microsoft 365 and Azure cloud security technologies. In the last section, you’ll discover how to protect, detect, and respond with security monitoring, reporting, operations, testing, and auditing. By the end of this book, you’ll have developed an understanding of the processes and tools involved in enforcing security controls and implementing zero-trust security principles to protect Windows systems.What you will learn Build a multi-layered security approach using zero-trust concepts Explore best practices to implement security baselines successfully Get to grips with virtualization and networking to harden your devices Discover the importance of identity and access management Explore Windows device administration and remote management Become an expert in hardening your Windows infrastructure Audit, assess, and test to ensure controls are successfully applied and enforced Monitor and report activities to stay on top of vulnerabilities Who this book is for If you're a cybersecurity or technology professional, solutions architect, systems engineer, systems administrator, or anyone interested in learning how to secure the latest Windows-based systems, this book is for you. A basic understanding of Windows security concepts, Intune, Configuration Manager, Windows PowerShell, and Microsoft Azure will help you get the best out of this book.

Unveil the Secrets to Fortifying Windows Systems Against Cyber Threats Are you prepared to take a stand against the evolving landscape of cyber threats? "Mastering Windows Security" is your essential guide to fortifying Windows systems against a myriad of digital dangers. Whether you're an IT professional responsible for safeguarding corporate networks or an individual striving to protect personal data, this comprehensive book equips you with the knowledge and tools to create an airtight defense. Key Features: 1. Thorough Examination of Windows Security: Dive deep into the core principles of Windows security, understanding the nuances of user authentication, access controls, and encryption. Establish a foundation that empowers you to secure your systems from the ground up. 2. Cyber Threat Landscape Analysis: Explore the ever-evolving world of cyber threats. Learn about malware, phishing attacks, ransomware, and more, enabling you to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and protect your systems effectively. 3. Hardening Windows Systems: Uncover strategies for hardening Windows environments against potential vulnerabilities. Implement best practices for configuring firewalls, antivirus solutions, and intrusion detection systems to ensure a robust defense. 4. Identity and Access Management: Delve into identity and access management strategies that control user privileges effectively. Learn how to implement multi-factor authentication, role-based access controls, and secure authentication protocols. 5. Network Security: Master network security measures designed to thwart cyber threats. Understand the importance of segmentation, VPNs, secure remote access, and intrusion prevention systems in maintaining a resilient network. 6. Secure Application Development: Learn how to develop and deploy secure applications on Windows systems. Explore techniques for mitigating common vulnerabilities and implementing secure coding practices. 7. Incident Response and Recovery: Develop a comprehensive incident response plan to swiftly address security breaches. Discover strategies for isolating threats, recovering compromised systems, and learning from security incidents. 8. Data Protection and Encryption: Explore the world of data protection and encryption techniques. Learn how to safeguard sensitive data through encryption, secure storage, and secure data transmission methods. 9. Cloud Security Considerations: Navigate the complexities of securing Windows systems in cloud environments. Understand the unique challenges and solutions associated with cloud security to ensure your data remains protected. 10. Real-World Case Studies: Apply theory to practice by studying real-world case studies of security breaches and successful defenses. Gain valuable insights into the tactics and strategies used by attackers and defenders. Who This Book Is For: "Mastering Windows Security" is a must-have resource for IT professionals, system administrators, security analysts, and anyone responsible for safeguarding Windows systems against cyber threats. Whether you're a seasoned expert or a novice in the field of cybersecurity, this book will guide you through the intricacies of Windows security and empower you to create a robust defense.

New edition of the bestselling guide to Mastering Windows Server, updated to Windows Server 2022 with improved security, better platform flexibility, new windows admin center, upgraded Hyper-V manager and hybrid cloud support Key Features Develop necessary skills to design and implement Microsoft Server 2019 in enterprise environment Provide support to your medium to large enterprise and leverage your experience in administering Microsoft Server 2019 Effectively administering Windows server 2019 with the help of practical examples Book DescriptionMastering Windows Server 2019 – Second Edition covers all of the essential information needed to implement and utilize this latest-and-greatest platform as the core of your data center computing needs. You will begin by installing and managing Windows Server 2019, and by clearing up common points of confusion surrounding the versions and licensing of this new product. Centralized management, monitoring, and configuration of servers is key to an efficient IT department, and you will discover multiple methods for quickly managing all of your servers from a single pane of glass. To this end, you will spend time inside Server Manager, PowerShell, and even the new Windows Admin Center, formerly known as Project Honolulu. Even though this book is focused on Windows Server 2019 LTSC, we will still discuss containers and Nano Server, which are more commonly related to the SAC channel of the server platform, for a well-rounded exposition of all aspects of using Windows Server in your environment. We also discuss the various remote access technologies available in this operating system, as well as guidelines for virtualizing your data center with Hyper-V. By the end of this book, you will have all the ammunition required to start planning for, implementing, and managing Windows.What you will learn Work with the updated Windows Server 2019 interface, including Server Core and Windows Admin Center Secure your network and data with new technologies in Windows Server 2019 Learn about containers and understand the appropriate situations to use Nano Server Discover new ways to integrate your data center with Microsoft Azure Harden your Windows Servers to help keep the bad guys out Virtualize your data center with Hyper-V Who this book is for If you are a System Administrator or an IT professional interested in designing and deploying Windows Server 2019 then this book is for you. Previous experience of Windows Server operating systems and familiarity with networking concepts is required.

An immersive learning experience enhanced with technical, hands-on labs to understand the concepts, methods, tools, platforms, and systems required to master the art of cybersecurity Key FeaturesGet hold of the best defensive security strategies and toolsDevelop a defensive security strategy at an enterprise levelGet hands-on with advanced cybersecurity threat detection, including XSS, SQL injections, brute forcing web applications, and moreBook Description Every organization has its own data and digital assets that need to be protected against an ever-growing threat landscape that compromises the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of crucial data. Therefore, it is important to train professionals in the latest defensive security skills and tools to secure them. Mastering Defensive Security provides you with in-depth knowledge of the latest cybersecurity threats along with the best tools and techniques needed to keep your infrastructure secure. The book begins by establishing a strong foundation of cybersecurity concepts and advances to explore the latest security technologies such as Wireshark, Damn Vulnerable Web App (DVWA), Burp Suite, OpenVAS, and Nmap, hardware threats such as a weaponized Raspberry Pi, and hardening techniques for Unix, Windows, web applications, and cloud infrastructures. As you make progress through the chapters, you'll get to grips with several advanced techniques such as malware analysis, security automation, computer forensics, and vulnerability assessment, which will help you to leverage pentesting for security. By the end of this book, you'll have become familiar with creating your own defensive security tools using IoT devices and developed advanced defensive security skills. What you will learnBecome well versed with concepts related to defensive securityDiscover strategies and tools to secure the most vulnerable factor – the userGet hands-on experience using and configuring the best security toolsUnderstand how to apply hardening techniques in Windows and Unix environmentsLeverage malware analysis and forensics to enhance your security strategySecure Internet of Things (IoT) implementationsEnhance the security of web applications and cloud deploymentsWho this book is for This book is for all IT professionals who want to take their first steps into the world of defensive security; from system admins and programmers to data analysts and data scientists with an interest in security. Experienced cybersecurity professionals working on broadening their knowledge and keeping up to date with the latest defensive developments will also find plenty of useful information in this book. You'll need a basic understanding of networking, IT, servers, virtualization, and cloud platforms before you get started with this book.

Improve and reimagine your organization's security stance, desktop standards, and server administration with centralized management via Group Policy. Key FeaturesExplore advanced filtering techniques for Group Policy ObjectsInteract with Group Policy through GPMC and PowerShellPractical guide covering the daily and advanced administration of group policyBook Description This book begins with a discussion of the core material any administrator needs to know in order to start working with Group Policy. Moving on, we will also walk through the process of building a lab environment to start testing Group Policy today. Next we will explore the Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) and start using the powerful features available for us within that interface. Once you are well versed with using GPMC, you will learn to perform and manage the traditional core tasks inside Group Policy. Included in the book are many examples and walk-throughs of the different filtering options available for the application of Group Policy settings, as this is the real power that Group Policy holds within your network. You will also learn how you can use Group Policy to secure your Active Directory environment, and also understand how Group Policy preferences are different than policies, with the help of real-world examples. Finally we will spend some time on maintenance and troubleshooting common Group Policy-related issues so that you, as a directory administrator, will understand the diagnosing process for policy settings. By the end of the book, you will be able to jump right in and use Group Policy to its full potential. What you will learnBecome familiar with the Group Policy Management ConsoleCreate, link, and filter new policiesSecure your users and devices using Group PolicyMaintain and troubleshoot Group PolicyAdminister Group Policy via PowerShellControl your Active Directory environment efficiently with Group Policy settings Who this book is for If you are an IT professional who works with Windows Servers or are interested in an Active Directory environment then this book is for you. General knowledge of Microsoft Windows, how Windows Server fits into an enterprise’s infrastructure and also some existing knowledge of an Active Directory domain environment is expected.

Dive into the realm of cybersecurity mastery with "Mastering Windows Security: Unveiling Hacking Techniques and Penetration Strategies," authored by the seasoned expert, Eden Bleich. This comprehensive guide is meticulously crafted to equip both aspiring and seasoned professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to fortify Windows environments against evolving cyber threats. In this groundbreaking book, Eden Bleich explores the intricate landscape of Windows security, unraveling the concealed world of hacking techniques and penetration strategies. From the evolution of Windows operating systems to the forefront of cybersecurity defense, each chapter delves into critical facets, offering a blend of theoretical insights and hands-on practicality. The journey begins with an exploration of the evolution of Windows operating systems (Chapter 1.1), setting the stage for readers to comprehend the historical context that shaped the current cybersecurity landscape. Eden Bleich meticulously outlines the significance of robust security measures (Chapter 1.2), laying the foundation for an in-depth understanding of the intricacies involved in securing Windows environments. Readers are then guided through an overview of Windows security features (Chapter 1.3), providing a holistic understanding of the security architecture that forms the backbone of defense strategies. As the narrative unfolds, key principles of cybersecurity (Chapter 2.1), common threats identification (Chapter 2.2), and vulnerabilities understanding (Chapter 2.3) become pillars upon which readers build their expertise. The author navigates through Windows security components (Chapter 3.1), delving into User Account Control (UAC) intricacies (Chapter 3.2) and the robust encryption features of BitLocker and Full Disk Encryption (Chapter 3.3). The exploration extends to Windows Defender and antivirus solutions (Chapter 3.4), offering a comprehensive understanding of safeguarding systems against malicious intrusions. The book transcends theoretical knowledge, immersing readers into the intricate world of hacking techniques (Chapter 6.1), unveiling common methods used by cyber adversaries. Social engineering attacks (Chapter 6.2) and phishing techniques (Chapter 6.3) are meticulously dissected, providing readers with the knowledge needed to thwart these pervasive threats. Penetration testing takes center stage in the book's later chapters, with fundamentals (Chapter 7) paving the way for exploring tools and methodologies (Chapter 7.2) and setting up a penetration testing environment (Chapter 7.3). Windows vulnerabilities and exploits (Chapter 8) become the focus, providing valuable insights into identifying weaknesses and fortifying against potential breaches. Eden Bleich goes beyond conventional security measures, unraveling advanced threat detection (Chapter 9) strategies and delving into securing applications on Windows (Chapter 10). Incident response and forensics (Chapter 11), compliance and regulatory considerations (Chapter 12), and securing cloud environments (Chapter 13) offer a comprehensive approach to safeguarding digital landscapes. The book peers into the future with a visionary exploration of emerging trends in Windows security (Chapter 14), providing readers with a forward-thinking perspective. The journey concludes with a practical appendix featuring resources and tools (Chapter 15), equipping readers to further their knowledge and implementation skills.

An authoritative guide to investigating high-technologycrimes Internet crime is seemingly ever on the rise, making the needfor a comprehensive resource on how to investigate these crimeseven more dire. This professional-level book--aimed at lawenforcement personnel, prosecutors, and corporateinvestigators--provides you with the training you need in order toacquire the sophisticated skills and software solutions to stay onestep ahead of computer criminals. Specifies the techniques needed to investigate, analyze, anddocument a criminal act on a Windows computer or network Places a special emphasis on how to thoroughly investigatecriminal activity and now just perform the initial response Walks you through ways to present technically complicatedmaterial in simple terms that will hold up in court Features content fully updated for Windows Server 2008 R2 andWindows 7 Covers the emerging field of Windows Mobile forensics Also included is a classroom support package to ensure academicadoption, Mastering Windows Network Forensics and Investigation,2nd Edition offers help for investigating high-technologycrimes.