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V-278033

CAT II (Medium)

Windows Server 2025 account lockout duration must be configured to 15 minutes or greater.

Rule ID

SV-278033r1180805_rule

STIG

Microsoft Windows Server 2025 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Version

V1R1

CCIs

CCI-002238

Discussion

When enabled, the account lockout feature prevents brute-force password attacks on the system. This parameter specifies the period of time that an account will remain locked after the specified number of failed logon attempts.

Check Content

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor.

Run gpedit.msc.

Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Account Policies >> Account Lockout Policy.

If the "Account lockout duration" is less than "15" minutes (excluding "0"), this is a finding.

For server core installations, run the following command:

Secedit /Export /Areas SecurityPolicy /CFG C:\Path\FileName.Txt

If "LockoutDuration" is less than "15" (excluding "0") in the file, this is a finding.

Configuring this to "0", requiring an administrator to unlock the account, is more restrictive and is not a finding.

Fix Text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Account Policies >> Account Lockout Policy. Set "Account lockout duration" to "15" minutes or greater.

A value of "0" is also acceptable, requiring an administrator to unlock the account.