← Back to Microsoft Windows Server 2025 Security Technical Implementation Guide

V-278206

CAT II (Medium)

Windows Server 2025 machine inactivity limit must be set to 15 minutes or less, locking the system with the screen saver.

Rule ID

SV-278206r1181324_rule

STIG

Microsoft Windows Server 2025 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Version

V1R1

CCIs

CCI-000056 CCI-000057 CCI-000060

Discussion

Unattended systems are susceptible to unauthorized use and must be locked when unattended. The screen saver must be set at a maximum of 15 minutes and be password protected. This protects critical and sensitive data from exposure to unauthorized personnel with physical access to the computer. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000028-GPOS-00009, SRG-OS-000029-GPOS-00010, SRG-OS-000031-GPOS-00012

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\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System\

Value Name: InactivityTimeoutSecs

Value Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 0x00000384 (900) (or less, excluding "0" which is effectively disabled)

Fix Text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> Interactive logon: Machine inactivity limit to "900" seconds or less, excluding "0", which is effectively disabled.