Update and Review Process

Update Process and Policy for Windows Optimization Script

Script Updates

Overview

Our Windows Optimization Script is regularly updated to incorporate the latest security configurations and improvements. These updates may include changes from third-party scripts and tools, as well as customizations to enhance privacy and security while maintaining usability.

Update Review Process

1. Third-Party Script Review: Periodically, we review third-party configuration scripts and tools to identify potential enhancements.

2. Customization: Each reviewed script is customized to integrate with our Windows Optimization Script while ensuring minimal disruption to core functionalities.

3. Testing: Customized configurations undergo extensive testing on various Windows versions, including Windows 10 1703, Windows 10 Latest, Windows 10 LTSB, and Windows 11 Latest, using automated deployment methods and tools such as Packer, Ansible, and Docker containers.

4. Publication: After successful testing, updates are pushed to our public GitHub repository Windows-Optimize-Harden-Debloat.

GPO Updates

Baseline

We utilize DISA preconfigured DOD STIG GPOs as a baseline for our Group Policy Object (GPO) configurations.

Customization and Testing

1. Baseline Adjustment: The baseline GPOs are modified to remove DoD-specific elements such as warning banners and restricted groups.

2. Virtualized Testing: Modified GPOs are tested in a virtual machine-based image and/or Docker container to ensure functionality and security.

3. Export and Deployment: Tested GPOs are exported from the domain controller using PowerShell and deployed to predetermined folders in the scripts path.

Professionalism and Realism

Our update process is grounded in professionalism and realism, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining and enhancing security while preserving system usability. We strive to provide a reliable and efficient script for Windows optimization and hardening.

Feedback and Collaboration

We welcome feedback and collaboration from the community to further improve our script. If you encounter issues or have suggestions, please submit an issue.

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Note: Before implementing updates, review the update.md file to understand changes and implications. Testing in a controlled environment is recommended.