Windows Server 2019 domain controllers must be configured to allow reset of machine account passwords.
Overview
| Finding ID | Version | Rule ID | IA Controls | Severity |
| V-205876 | WN19-DC-000330 | SV-205876r991589_rule | Medium |
| Description |
| Enabling this setting on all domain controllers in a domain prevents domain members from changing their computer account passwords. If these passwords are weak or compromised, the inability to change them may leave these computers vulnerable. |
| STIG | Date |
| Microsoft Windows Server 2019 Security Technical Implementation Guide | 2025-05-23 |
Details
| Check Text (C-6141r355990_chk) |
| This applies to domain controllers. It is NA for other systems. If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\Netlogon\Parameters\ Value Name: RefusePasswordChange Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000000 (0) |
| Fix Text (F-6141r355991_fix) |
| Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "Domain controller: Refuse machine account password changes" to "Disabled". |