Information
Enables a remote user to log on to this computer and run programs, and supports various TCP/IP Telnet clients, including UNIX-based and Windows-based computers.
The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled or Not Installed.
Note: This service is not installed by default. It is supplied with Windows, but is installed by enabling an optional Windows feature (Telnet Server).
Rationale:
Hosting a Telnet server (especially a non-secure Telnet server) from a workstation is an increased security risk, as the attack surface of that workstation is then greatly increased.
Note: This security concern applies to any Telnet server application installed on a workstation, not just the one supplied with Windows.
Solution
To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to: Disabled or ensure the service is not installed.
Computer Configuration\Policies\Windows Settings\Security Settings\System Services\Telnet
Impact:
Remote user Telnet access will not be available.
Default Value:
Not Installed (Disabled when installed)