Basic Data Protection in Windows - Implementing ACLs

(Page 2 of 4 )

Implementing ACL securities in Windows is extremely quick and efficient. This provides a moderate level of security. While data access is controlled under the operating system, the file’s contents are still intact and unaltered. This means that a dedicated threat could still extract the data. However, for most security settings, this is a negligible risk.

In Windows, these permissions can be changed from a file's or folder’s Properties dialog. To begin, you’ll need to make sure that you are not using Simple File Sharing as these settings will not be available to you if Windows is managing your file security. Use the following steps to disable Simple File Sharing.

1. Click the Start button and open My Computer from the Start menu.
2. Select Folder Options… from the Tools menu to open the Folder Options dialog box.
3. On the View tab, locate the Advanced settings list and scroll to the last entry.
4. Deselect the option labeled Use simple file sharing (Recommended).
5. Select Apply and OK to close all open dialogs.

File and folder security settings will be available immediately. You can open any File or Folder Properties dialog to see a newly available Security tab.

From this tab, you will be able to allow or deny specified actions for each user or group on your computer. Let’s take a look at the more advanced settings.

Next: Advanced ACL settings >>
 

More Windows Security Articles
More By Nilpo

Comments On: Basic Data Protection in Windows

· This is the first of a three-part series documenting data protection methods...   >>> Post your comment now!