Assignment $7-2$: Operating System Hardening and Security Measures

Introduction: In this assignment, you will learn how to harden your base operating system following the Center for Internet Security $($CIS$)$ Hardening Guidelines. Additionally, you will set up a BIOS password, disable unused user accounts, and ensure that the Windows OS is adequately patched for enhanced security.

Task $1$: Harden the Base Operating System Using CIS Hardening Guidelines

Step $1$: CIS Hardening Guidelines

Obtain a copy of the CIS Hardening Guidelines for your specific operating system $($e$.$g$.,$ Windows, Linux$).$

Review the guidelines for securing your base operating system.

Implement the recommended security settings and configurations based on the guidelines.

Task $2$: Set Up BIOS Password

Step $1$: Access BIOS Settings

Reboot your computer and access the BIOS settings by pressing the appropriate key during startup $($usually Del, F$2,$ or F$12).$

Navigate to the security or password settings in the BIOS.

Step $2$: Set BIOS Password

Set a BIOS password to restrict unauthorized access to BIOS settings.

Follow the instructions in your BIOS interface to create a strong BIOS password.

Task $3$: Disable Unused User Accounts

Step $1$: User Account Management

Log in to your operating system.

Access the user account management settings $($e$.$g$.,$ User Accounts on Windows, usermod or userdel on Linux$).$

Step $2$: Disable Unused User Accounts

Identify user accounts that are not in use or necessary for system operation.

Disable these accounts to prevent unauthorized access.

Task $4$: Ensure Adequate Patching of Windows OS

Step $1$: Windows Update

Access the Windows Update settings on your Windows operating system.

Check for available updates.

Step $2$: Install Updates

Install all available critical and security updates to ensure your Windows OS is adequately patched.