🚨 Harden your Windows systems using free, trusted open-source tools that cover audit, configuration, and monitoring. You don't need enterprise tools to raise your defense baseline — just a few solid steps. Quick Actions (Under 30 Minutes): • Run Hardentools — disable unsafe defaults instantly. • Use CIS-CAT Lite — identify missing patches, open RDP, or weak policies. • Check Local Admins — remove unused accounts, deploy LAPS for password rotation. • Turn On Logging — enable PowerShell, Windows Defender, and Audit Policy logs. • Run WinAudit — export a report and compare it weekly for unauthorized changes. • Scan with Wazuh or OpenVAS — look for outdated software or exposed services. Key Risks to Watch: 🔑 Reused or shared admin passwords 🌐 Open RDP/SMB without firewall or NLA ⚙️ Old PowerShell versions without logging 🧩 Users running with local admin rights 🪟 Missing Defender Attack Surface Reduction (ASR) rules 📦 Unpatched or unsigned software from third-party repos