2.2.4.6.1 Ensure 'Default file format' is set to 'Enabled: Excel Workbook (*.xlsx)'

Information

This policy setting controls the default file format for saving workbooks in Excel.

The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled: Excel Workbook (*.xlsx)

Rationale:

If a new Excel file is created in an earlier format, some users may not be unable to open or use the file, or they may choose a format that is less secure than the default format.

Impact:

Enabling this setting does not prevent users from choosing a different file format for a new Excel file, and therefore, it is unlikely to affect usability for most users.

Solution

To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to: Enabled: Excel Workbook (*.xlsx):

User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Microsoft Excel 2016\Excel Options\Save\Default File Format

Default Value:

Disabled. (Excel saves new workbooks as *.xlsx but users can override this default.)

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/12129

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-6b.

Plugin: Windows

Control ID: f17500381a802b6b42572e159543a3a549306c5726e63fe142d03d801ebc69f1