Privileged Account Management

Privileged Account Management

Privileged accounts with administrative capabilities require exceptional security measures due to their potential impact. These accounts can modify system configurations, access all data, and create additional accounts, making them primary targets for attackers. Effective privileged account management combines technical controls, procedural safeguards, and comprehensive monitoring.

Implement Privileged Access Workstations (PAWs) for administrative tasks, providing hardened systems used exclusively for privileged operations. Windows PAWs run minimal software, employ application whitelisting, and connect only to administrative networks. Configure PAWs with BitLocker encryption, Windows Defender Application Guard, and restricted network access. Prohibit internet browsing, email access, and productivity applications on PAWs to minimize attack surface.

Linux privileged access benefits from bastion hosts or jump servers providing controlled entry points. Configure SSH jump hosts with enhanced logging, MFA requirements, and session recording. Use SSH certificates for authentication, providing better control than traditional keys. Implement the following SSH configuration for enhanced security:

Match User adminusers
    ForceCommand /usr/local/bin/session-recorder
    PermitTTY yes
    X11Forwarding no
    PermitTunnel no
    AllowTcpForwarding no

Privileged session monitoring provides accountability and enables incident investigation. Windows environments can use Remote Desktop Gateway with session recording or third-party PAM solutions. Linux systems benefit from tools like Teleport or CyberArk providing session recording and real-time monitoring. Implement alerts for suspicious privileged account activities like off-hours access, unusual command execution, or lateral movement attempts.