Domain controllers must be configured to allow reset of machine account passwords.

From Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 Domain Controller Security Technical Implementation Guide

Part of Computer Account Password Change

Associated with IA controls: ECSC-1

Associated with: CCI-000366

SV-51141r2_rule Domain controllers must be configured to allow reset of machine account passwords.

Vulnerability discussion

Enabling this setting on all domain controllers in a domain prevents domain members from changing their computer account passwords. If these passwords are weak or compromised, the inability to change them may leave these computers vulnerable.

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: \System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Netlogon\Parameters\ Value Name: RefusePasswordChange Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0

Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Domain controller: Refuse machine account password changes" to "Disabled".

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