Windows Server 2019 • Release: 7 Benchmark Date: 05 Jan 2026

CAT II V-205825 WN19-SO-000160

Windows Server 2019 setting Microsoft network client: Digitally sign communications (always) must be configured to Enabled.

Documentable No
Rule ID SV-205825r958908_rule
CCI References
CCI-002418CCI-002421

The server message block (SMB) protocol provides the basis for many network operations. Digitally signed SMB packets aid in preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. If this policy is enabled, the SMB client will only communicate with an SMB server that performs SMB packet signing. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000423-GPOS-00187, SRG-OS-000424-GPOS-00188

Check Procedure

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: \SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanWorkstation\Parameters\

Value Name: RequireSecuritySignature

Value Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 0x00000001 (1)

Fix Action

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "Microsoft network client: Digitally sign communications (always)" to "Enabled".