Windows 7: Local Security Policy

You can manage the local security policy in Windows 7. The Local Security Policy screen gives you access to control over the security policies on your computer.

The settings you can control are extensive as explained below. Account Policies allows you to control password and account lockout policies. Local policies enables you configure auditing, user rights and security options policies. The Windows firewall with Advanced Security option provides your computer with network security.

The Network List Manager Policies oversees the identification of networks, particularly those that the user connects to, as well as the handling of those that cannot be identified. Public Key Policies deals with encryption.

Two areas under the control of this setting are encryption of the file system and the Bitlocker drive encryption software. Application Control Policies gives you control over the AppLocker application which uses rules and the properties of files to provide access control for applications.

The Advanced Audit Policy Configuration gives you detailed control over audit policies, identification of attempted or successful attacks on your network and resources, and verifies compliance with rules governing the management of critical organizational assets.