Chapter 9: Security Administration

Highlights

One of the most important aspects of desktop administration is locking down and securing Windows XP Professional. This includes the implementation of user accounts and passwords, requiring users to identify themselves and authenticate before a login session is permitted. This protects both corporate and individual data stored on the computer while also protecting the corporate network by preventing outsiders from gaining unauthorized access.

Windows XP Professional security can be performed locally or by Active Directory if the computer is part of a domain-based network. This chapter will focus on the steps involved in performing local security administration. This will include an overview of security-related tasks, the administration of user and group accounts, and the application of security permissions.

This chapter will also review the steps involved in administering security policies as a means for specifying and enforcing security standards, such as minimum password length and password history.