Local administrator accounts on Windows systems hold critical privileges, controlling files, directories, and services on local devices. These accounts are akin to a master key for your company’s data. Important questions to consider include: How often are these passwords changed? Do the same passwords get used across all devices? Could cybercriminals exploit these accounts through techniques like Pass-the-Hash (PtH) attacks?
Introducing Cloud LAPS
To counter these security vulnerabilities, Cloud LAPS offers a sophisticated solution tailored for the management of local administrator passwords in cloud environments. Here’s how Cloud LAPS fortifies your network security:
- Automated Password Management: Cloud LAPS automates the assignment of random, robust passwords across all cloud-connected devices, thereby minimising the likelihood of password-related security breaches.
- Cloud Integration: Cloud LAPS integrates directly with cloud services by using Microsoft’s Entra ID. This allows for seamless management of passwords across both cloud and hybrid on-premises environments, giving administrators the ability to configure the complexity, length, and rotation frequency of passwords according to organisational security policies.
The Advantages of Using Cloud LAPS
Implementing Cloud LAPS brings several key benefits to your security strategy:
- Enhanced Security Posture: By ensuring that each administrator password is unique and regularly rotated, Cloud LAPS reduces the risks associated with static or reused passwords.
- Reduced Risk of Pass-the-Hash (PtH) Attacks: Frequent password changes disrupt the effectiveness of PtH attacks, which rely on stealing password hashes to gain unauthorised access.
- Improved Compliance: Cloud LAPS helps your organisation meet stringent compliance requirements related to password management by enforcing policies on password complexity and changes.
- Secure and Transparent Password Tracking: With Cloud LAPS, password changes occur transparently to users but are managed securely, ensuring that passwords are accessible only to authorised personnel.
Outcome: A Secure and Compliant Network
Cloud LAPS replaces predictable, static passwords with dynamically generated, complex passwords, significantly lowering the risk of unauthorised access through compromised administrator credentials. Each password is regularly rotated and centrally managed, ensuring that security risks are effectively mitigated and that your network remains protected against evolving cyber threats.
By adopting Cloud LAPS, your organisation takes a proactive approach to securing its digital landscape, enhancing defences, and simplifying the management of crucial security components within your IT infrastructure.
Call Chalkline today on 020 3819 3300 or review our IT Security Packages for SMBs page and book a meeting with us, we can help with all elements of cyber hygiene and answer any questions you might have.
