Windows must be prevented from using Windows Update to search for drivers.

From Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 Member Server Security Technical Implementation Guide

Part of Windows Update Device Drive Searching

Associated with: CCI-001812

SV-53000r1_rule Windows must be prevented from using Windows Update to search for drivers.

Vulnerability discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents Windows from searching Windows Update for device drivers when no local drivers for a device are present.

Check content

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: \Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\DriverSearching\ Value Name: DontSearchWindowsUpdate Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1

Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Internet Communication Management -> Internet Communication settings -> "Turn off Windows Update device driver searching" to "Enabled".

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