The Windows PAW must be configured to enforce two-factor authentication and use Active Directory for authentication management.
Overview
| Finding ID | Version | Rule ID | IA Controls | Severity |
| V-243457 | WPAW-00-001600 | SV-243457r1015765_rule | Medium |
| Description |
| Due to the highly privileged functions of a PAW, a high level of trust must be implemented for access to the PAW, including nonrepudiation of the user session. One-factor authentication, including username and password and shared administrator accounts, does not provide adequate assurance. |
| STIG | Date |
| Microsoft Windows PAW Security Technical Implementation Guide | 2025-05-23 |
Details
| Check Text (C-46732r997925_chk) |
| Review the configuration on the PAW. Verify group policy is configured to enable either smart card or another DOD-approved two-factor authentication method for site PAWs. - In Active Directory, go to Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options. - Verify "Interactive logon: Require Windows Hello for Business or smart card" is set to "Enabled". If group policy is not configured to enable either smart card or another DOD-approved two-factor authentication method, this is a finding. |
| Fix Text (F-46689r997926_fix) |
| In Active Directory, configure group policy to enable either smart card or another DOD-approved two-factor authentication method for all PAWs. - Go to Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options. - Set "Interactive logon: Require Windows Hello for Business or smart card" to "Enabled". |