Professional Windows Desktop and Server Hardening

Today's viruses, worms, and Trojans may seem more damaging that ever, but the attacking malware and malicious hackers are using the same tricks they always have. With this book, Microsoft MVP Roger Grimes exposes the real threat to Windows computers and offers practical guidance to secure those systems.

Grimes shares proven yet unconventional defences that most Windows administers don't use. He walks you step-by-step through these techniques, clearly showing you how to secure your Windows operating system beyond the Microsoft defaults. You'll get security advice for Windows 2000, XP, and Server 2003, in addition to emerging technologies from Microsoft. Plus, the book details hundreds of group policy settings and the best way to apply group policy objects. Ultimately, you'll discover how to harden Microsoft most commonly attacked applications while automating all of your security settings.

What you will learn from this book:
- How Windows desktop and server security can be dramatically improved by configuring default security
- Ways to enhance authentication and prevent password crackers
- Techniques for stopping unauthorized application installation or execution
- Tips for defending against the biggest e-mail security threats
- How to achieve seamless and secure file encryption
- Steps to create customized security and administrative templates
- How internet Explorer functions behind the scenes and the recommended configuration

This book is for Microsoft Windows administrators who need to significantly increase the security of their clients and servers using the best methods available