System Hardening (A+1202)

By completing this lab, you will be able to:

Security Policy Implementation

  • Configure comprehensive password policies and enforcement mechanisms 

  • Implement account lockout policies for failed authentication attempts 

  • Manage user account permissions and privilege restrictions 

  • Configure screen lock settings for unauthorized access prevention

System Configuration Hardening

  • Configure and manage Windows Firewall settings 

  • Disable unnecessary services and minimize attack surface 

  • Update operating systems and applications systematically 

  • Implement data encryption for information protection

Access Control Management

  • Establish principle of least privilege for user accounts
  • Configure automatic update mechanisms for security patches
  • Implement screen saver policies with password protection
  • Manage service accounts and system-level permissions

Overview

This hands-on lab provides comprehensive practice in implementing system hardening techniques—critical skills for IT professionals and CompTIA A+ certification candidates. Covering objectives from the 220-1202 exam, you'll develop proficiency in securing Windows systems through systematic configuration of security controls, user account management, service hardening, and data protection measures.

Through guided exercises, you'll master essential hardening practices including password policy enforcement, account lockout configuration, firewall management, service minimization, permission control, screen lock implementation, data encryption, and automated update configuration. These skills are fundamental for creating secure computing environments that resist both external attacks and internal security breaches while maintaining system functionality and user productivity.

Courses

Key terms and descriptions

System Hardening
Process of securing computer systems by reducing vulnerabilities
Attack Surface
Total number of possible entry points for unauthorized access
Principle of Least Privilege
Security concept limiting user access to minimum required resources
Service Minimization
Disabling unnecessary services to reduce security exposure
Data Encryption
Process of converting data into coded format to prevent unauthorized access
Account Lockout
Security mechanism that disables accounts after failed login attempts
Screen Lock
Security feature requiring authentication to access active sessions
Group Policy
Windows administrative template system for managing security settings
BitLocker
Microsoft's full disk encryption technology
Windows Update
Microsoft's system for delivering security patches and updates
User Account Control
Windows security feature preventing unauthorized system changes
Firewall Rules
Network traffic filtering configurations for security protection