To block remote network access for local user accounts in Windows, you can use the Local Security Policy editor or Group Policy editor to configure the following policy:
- Open the Local Security Policy editor by typing “secpol.msc” in the Run dialog box or the Start menu search box, and then press Enter.
- Navigate to Local Policies > User Rights Assignment.
- Double-click the policy named “Deny access to this computer from the network”.
- Click the Add User or Group button and add the local user accounts that you want to block from remote network access.
- Click OK to close the dialog box and save the policy settings.
Alternatively, you can use Group Policy to configure this policy on multiple computers in your network:
- Open the Group Policy Management Console by typing “gpmc.msc” in the Run dialog box or the Start menu search box, and then press Enter.
- Create a new Group Policy Object (GPO) or select an existing one.
- Navigate to Computer Configuration > Policies > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > User Rights Assignment.
- Double-click the policy named “Deny access to this computer from the network”.
- Click the Add User or Group button and add the local user accounts that you want to block from remote network access.
- Click OK to close the dialog box and save the policy settings.
- Link the GPO to the appropriate Organizational Unit (OU) or domain, and ensure that the affected computers receive the policy settings.
By blocking remote network access for local user accounts, you can reduce the attack surface of your computers and improve their security posture, especially if the local user accounts have weak passwords or other vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. However, you should also ensure that your network and system administrators have appropriate access to manage the affected computers, and that your security policies and procedures are aligned with industry standards and best practices.
