2.3.11.5 Ensure 'Network security: Do not store LAN Manager hash value on next password change' is set to 'Enabled'

Information

This policy setting determines whether the LAN Manager (LM) hash value for the new password is stored when the password is changed.

The LM hash is relatively weak and prone to attack compared to the cryptographically stronger Microsoft Windows NT hash.

Since LM hashes are stored on the local computer in the security database, passwords can then be easily compromised if the database is attacked.

Note: Older operating systems and some third-party applications may fail when this policy setting is enabled.

Also, note that the password will need to be changed on all accounts after you enable this setting to gain the proper benefit.

The recommended state for this setting is: 'Enabled'.

Solution

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

Computer Configuration\Policies\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\Security Options\Network security: Do not store LAN Manager hash value on next password change

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/1941

Item Details

Category: IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION

References: 800-53|IA-5(6), CSCv6|16.14

Plugin: Windows

Control ID: 0c160d6ef5334ec785a206be2789fcdd2975abdf8cba7b3f82a8041f4bac73be