2.2.52 Ensure 'Modify firmware environment values' is set to 'Administrators'

Information

This policy setting allows users to configure the system-wide environment variables that affect hardware configuration. This information is typically stored in the Last Known Good Configuration. Modification of these values and could lead to a hardware failure that would result in a denial of service condition.

The recommended state for this setting is: Administrators.

Note: This user right is considered a 'sensitive privilege' for the purposes of auditing.

Rationale:

Anyone who is assigned the Modify firmware environment values user right could configure the settings of a hardware component to cause it to fail, which could lead to data corruption or a DoS condition.

Impact:

None - this is the default behavior.

Solution

To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to Administrators:

Computer Configuration\Policies\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\User Rights Assignment\Modify firmware environment values

Default Value:

Administrators.

Additional Information:

Microsoft Windows Server 2016 Security Technical Implementation Guide:
Version 2, Release 2, Benchmark Date: May 04, 2021

Vul ID: V-225087
Rule ID: SV-225087r569186_rule
STIG ID: WN16-UR-000270
Severity: CAT II

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/3476