Security Configuration and Analysis in Windows 2000

The Security Configuration and Analysis snap-in in Microsoft Windows 2000 is a Microsoft Management Console (MMC) administrative tool designed to evaluate and enforce local computer security. It allows system administrators to compare a machine's current security state against standardized security baselines defined in security templates. Beyond auditing, the tool enables administrators to resolve security discrepancies by applying the baseline configurations directly to the operating system, streamlining compliance and vulnerability management.

Core Functions

The Security Configuration and Analysis snap-in serves two primary operational roles: analysis and configuration.

1. Security Analysis

The analysis function performs an audit of the local system against a pre-selected baseline template. The process works as follows:

  • Database Utilization: The snap-in imports one or more security templates (.inf files) into a local security database (.sdb).
  • State Comparison: It reads the actual configuration of the local operating system and compares it to the parameters stored in the database.
  • Visual Discrepancy Reporting: Once the scan is complete, the snap-in presents the findings in a graphical tree view:
    • Green Check Mark: Indicates that the current system setting matches the baseline template.
    • Red "X": Indicates a discrepancy where the system setting does not match the baseline template.
    • No Icon: Indicates that the specific setting is not defined in the baseline template and was not evaluated.

2. Security Configuration

The configuration function allows administrators to resolve identified vulnerabilities. By executing the "Configure Computer Now" command, the tool applies the settings defined in the security database directly to the system. This overwrites any non-compliant local settings and brings the machine into full alignment with the chosen security standard.

Configurable Security Areas

The snap-in analyzes and configures several security layers across Windows 2000:

  • Account Policies: Password length, complexity, expiration, and account lockout thresholds.
  • Local Policies: Audit policies (tracking logons, object access, etc.), user rights assignments, and general security options.
  • Event Log: Maximum log sizes, retention methods, and access restrictions for application, security, and system logs.
  • Restricted Groups: Membership control for sensitive local groups, such as the local Administrators group.
  • System Services: Startup modes (Automatic, Manual, Disabled) and access permissions for background services.
  • Registry: Access control lists (ACLs) applied to registry keys.
  • File System: NTFS access permissions and auditing settings applied to local files and folders.

Operational Workflow

To use the Security Configuration and Analysis snap-in in Windows 2000:

  1. Load the Snap-in: Open mmc.exe and add the Security Configuration and Analysis snap-in.
  2. Open Database: Right-click the snap-in node and select Open Database to open an existing .sdb file or create a new one.
  3. Import Template: Select a baseline security template (such as default, secure, or highly secure templates provided by Windows 2000).
  4. Analyze the Computer: Select Analyze Computer Now to generate a discrepancy report based on current settings versus the template.
  5. Review and Remediate: Review the red discrepancy markers. If the template settings are desired, select Configure Computer Now to automatically apply the policies to the system.