Windows Server 2019 • Release: 7 Benchmark Date: 05 Jan 2026
CAT II V-205852 WN19-00-000240
Windows Server 2019 must have software certificate installation files removed.
Discussion
Use of software certificates and their accompanying installation files for end users to access resources is less secure than the use of hardware-based certificates.
Check Procedure
Search all drives for *.p12 and *.pfx files. If any files with these extensions exist, this is a finding. This does not apply to server-based applications that have a requirement for .p12 certificate files or Adobe PreFlight certificate files. Some applications create files with extensions of .p12 that are not certificate installation files. Removal of non-certificate installation files from systems is not required. These must be documented with the ISSO.
Fix Action
Remove any certificate installation files (*.p12 and *.pfx) found on a system. Note: This does not apply to server-based applications that have a requirement for .p12 certificate files or Adobe PreFlight certificate files.