Title

Simultaneous connections to the Internet or a Windows domain must be limited. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

Multiple network connections can provide additional attack vectors to a system and must be limited. The "Minimize the number of simultaneous connections to the Internet or a Windows Domain" setting prevents systems from automatically establishing multiple connections. When both wired and wireless connections are available, for example, the less preferred connection (typically wireless) will be disconnected.

Check Content

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: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WcmSvc\GroupPolicy\ Value Name: fMinimizeConnections Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000001 (1)

Fix Text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Network >> Windows Connection Manager >> "Minimize the number of simultaneous connections to the Internet or a Windows Domain" to "Enabled".

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-48291r3_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-36674

Group Title: WN08-CC-000014

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

Controls tied to check. These are derived from the CCIs shown above.