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139: Security Baselines

Overview​

Security baselines in Microsoft Intune are pre-configured groups of Windows settings and default values recommended by Microsoft's security teams. They help you quickly apply a consistent security posture across your managed devices. Here's a detailed overview:

Benefits​

  1. Enhanced Security: Security baselines ensure devices adhere to best practices and recommended security settings, reducing vulnerabilities.
  2. Consistency: Provides a uniform security configuration across all devices, minimizing configuration errors.
  3. Compliance: Helps meet regulatory and organizational security requirements.
  4. Simplified Management: Centralized management of security settings through Intune simplifies administration.

Drawbacks​

  1. Initial Setup Complexity: Configuring and customizing security baselines can be complex and time-consuming.
  2. Potential Conflicts: Baselines might conflict with existing policies or settings, requiring careful planning and testing.
  3. Maintenance: Regular updates and maintenance are needed to keep baselines current with the latest security recommendations.

Impact on End Users​

  • Improved Security: Users benefit from enhanced security without needing to take additional actions.
  • Minimal Disruption: Properly deployed baselines can be applied with minimal disruption to users.
  • User Training: Some users might need training to understand new security settings or changes.

Deploying Security Baselines​

  1. Create a Profile: In Intune, create a new security baseline profile in the Endpoint Security Blade in the Intune console.
  2. Customize Settings: Adjust the baseline settings to fit your organization's needs.
  3. Assign to Groups: Assign the baseline profile to specific groups of devices or users.
  4. Monitor Compliance: Continuously monitor and adjust the baseline to ensure compliance and address any issues.

Tying to Zero Trust​

Zero Trust is a security model that assumes no implicit trust and continuously verifies every request. Deploying security baselines through Intune aligns with Zero Trust principles by:

  • Ensuring Secure Access: Baselines enforce strict security settings, ensuring only compliant devices access corporate resources.
  • Continuous Verification: Regularly updated baselines help maintain secure access, aligning with the continuous verification aspect of Zero Trust.
  • Reducing Attack Surface: By enforcing consistent security settings, baselines reduce the potential attack surface.

Reference​