Check: AD.0295
Active Directory Forest STIG (STIG):
AD.0295
(in version v2 r7)
Title
The Windows Time Service on the forest root PDC Emulator must be configured to acquire its time from an external time source. (Cat II impact)
Discussion
When the Windows Time service is used to synchronize time on client computers (workstations and servers) throughout an AD forest, the forest root domain PDC Emulator is the normal default to provide the authoritative time source for the entire forest. To obtain an accurate time for itself, the forest root domain PDC Emulator acts as a client to an external time source. If the Windows Time service on the forest root domain PDC Emulator is not configured to acquire the time from a proper source, it may cause time service clients throughout the forest to operate with the inaccurate time setting. When a Windows computer operates with an inaccurate time setting, access to resources on computers with the accurate time might be denied. This is notably true when Kerberos authentication is utilized. Operation with an inaccurate time setting can reduce the value of audit data and invalidate it as a source of forensic evidence in an incident investigation. Further Policy Details: The Windows Time service is the preferred time synchronization tool for Windows domain controllers. This check is Not Applicable for Component locations that do not have the AD forest root domain on site. This check must be performed on the domain controller in the *forest root domain* that holds the PDC Emulator FSMO role.
Check Content
1. Use Registry Editor to navigate to the following: HLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\TimeProviders\NtpClient 2. If the value for “Enabled” is not “1”, then this is a finding. 3. Use Registry Editor to navigate to the following: HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\W32Time\Parameters 4. If the value for “Type” is not “NTP”, then this is a finding. Note: If these checks indicate a finding because the NtpClient is not enabled, ask the SA to demonstrate that a) an alternate time synchronization tool is installed and enabled and that b) a DoD-authorized external time source is being used. 5. If the Windows Time service is not enabled or no alternate tool is installed and enabled in its place, then this is a finding.
Fix Text
Configure the Windows Time service on the forest root PDC Emulator to acquire its time from an external time source.
Additional Identifiers
Rule ID: SV-9054r3_rule
Vulnerability ID: V-8557
Group Title:
Expert Comments
CCIs
Number | Definition |
---|---|
CCI-001891 |
The information system compares internal information system clocks on an organization-defined frequency with an organization-defined authoritative time source. |
Controls
Number | Title |
---|---|
AU-8 (1) |
Synchronization With Authoritative Time Source |