Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control Set To Allowed.

by ADMIN 59 views

Introduction

In the realm of Windows Update for Business (WUfB) and Microsoft Endpoint Manager (MEM), the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting plays a crucial role in managing features introduced via servicing that are off by default. However, the default setting for this feature is often misunderstood, leading to confusion among administrators. In this article, we will delve into the rationale behind setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed, explore the relevant Microsoft documentation, and examine the implications of this setting on Windows devices.

Understanding the CIS Recommendation

The Center for Internet Security (CIS) provides a comprehensive set of security benchmarks for Windows devices, including the Windows 10 and 11 Benchmark. In this benchmark, CIS recommends ensuring that features introduced via servicing that are off by default are disabled. Specifically, CIS recommendation 18.10.92.2.3 (L1) states:

Ensure 'Enable features introduced via servicing that are off by default' is set to 'Disabled' (Automated).

This recommendation is based on the principle of least privilege, where features that are not essential for the device's operation are disabled by default to minimize the attack surface.

The OIB Policy and CIS Reference

The OIB Policy, specifically the Win - OIB - SC - Windows Update for Business - D - Reports and Telemetry - v3.0, does not explicitly mention the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting. However, the CIS reference 18.10.92.2.3 (L1) is mentioned, which recommends disabling features introduced via servicing that are off by default.

Microsoft References

Microsoft provides two relevant references that shed light on the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting:

  1. Windows Deployment Update: WAAS-WUFB Group Policy

In this article, Microsoft explains the purpose of the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting:

This policy setting allows you to enable features introduced via servicing that are off by default.

However, Microsoft does not provide a clear explanation of why this setting is set to Allowed by default.

  1. Microsoft Endpoint Manager: Policy CSP - Update

In this article, Microsoft describes the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting as follows:

This policy setting allows you to enable features introduced via servicing that are off by default.

Again, Microsoft does not provide a clear explanation of why this setting is set to Allowed by default.

The Rationale Behind Setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed

Based on the Microsoft references provided, it appears that the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting is intended to enable features introduced via servicing that are off by default. However, the rationale behind setting this setting to Allowed by default is unclear.

One possible explanation is that Microsoft wants to provide administrators with the flexibility to enable features that are not essential for the device's operation, but may be useful in certain scenarios. By setting this setting to Allowed by default, administrators can choose to enable or disable these features as needed.

Implications of Setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed

Setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed can have implications for Windows devices, particularly in terms of security and performance. By enabling features that are not essential for the device's operation, administrators may inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities or performance issues.

On the other hand, disabling these features may limit the functionality of the device or prevent it from receiving important updates. Therefore, administrators must carefully consider the implications of setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed or Disabled.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting plays a crucial role in managing features introduced via servicing that are off by default. While Microsoft provides some guidance on this setting, the rationale behind setting it to Allowed by default is unclear. Administrators must carefully consider the implications of setting this setting to Allowed or Disabled and make informed decisions based on their specific use case.

Recommendations

Based on the CIS recommendation 18.10.92.2.3 (L1), we recommend disabling features introduced via servicing that are off by default. This can be achieved by setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Disabled.

However, administrators may choose to set this setting to Allowed if they require the flexibility to enable or disable features as needed. In this case, administrators must carefully consider the implications of setting this setting to Allowed and ensure that it does not introduce vulnerabilities or performance issues.

Future Work

To better understand the rationale behind setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed, Microsoft should provide more detailed guidance on this setting. Additionally, further research is needed to explore the implications of setting this setting to Allowed or Disabled and to identify best practices for managing features introduced via servicing that are off by default.

References

  • CIS Windows 10 and 11 Benchmark
  • OIB Policy: Win - OIB - SC - Windows Update for Business - D - Reports and Telemetry - v3.0
  • Microsoft Endpoint Manager: Policy CSP - Update
  • Microsoft Deployment Update: WAAS-WUFB Group Policy
    Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control Set to Allowed: Q&A ===========================================================

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored the rationale behind setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed. However, we received many questions from administrators seeking clarification on this setting. In this article, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control.

Q: What is the purpose of Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control?

A: The Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting allows you to enable features introduced via servicing that are off by default. This setting is intended to provide administrators with the flexibility to enable or disable features as needed.

Q: Why is Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control set to Allowed by default?

A: The rationale behind setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed by default is unclear. However, it is possible that Microsoft wants to provide administrators with the flexibility to enable features that are not essential for the device's operation, but may be useful in certain scenarios.

Q: What are the implications of setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed?

A: Setting Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Allowed can have implications for Windows devices, particularly in terms of security and performance. By enabling features that are not essential for the device's operation, administrators may inadvertently introduce vulnerabilities or performance issues.

Q: Can I set Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Disabled?

A: Yes, you can set Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control to Disabled. This is recommended by CIS recommendation 18.10.92.2.3 (L1), which states that features introduced via servicing that are off by default should be disabled.

Q: How do I configure Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control in Microsoft Endpoint Manager?

A: To configure Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control in Microsoft Endpoint Manager, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Microsoft Endpoint Manager console.
  2. Navigate to Devices > Configuration > Update.
  3. Click on Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control.
  4. Set the value to Enabled or Disabled as needed.

Q: Can I use Group Policy to configure Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control?

A: Yes, you can use Group Policy to configure Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update for Business.
  3. Click on Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control.
  4. Set the value to Enabled or Disabled as needed.

Q: What are the best practices for managing features introduced via servicing that are off by default?

A: The best practices for managing features introduced via servicing that are off by default include:

  1. Disable features that are not essential for the device's operation.
  2. Enable features only when necessary.
  3. Monitor device performance and security to ensure that enabled features do not introduce vulnerabilities or performance issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Allow Temporary Enterprise Feature Control setting plays a crucial role in managing features introduced via servicing that are off by default. By understanding the purpose and implications of this setting, administrators can make informed decisions about how to configure it. We hope that this Q&A article has provided valuable insights and guidance on this important topic.

References

  • CIS Windows 10 and 11 Benchmark
  • OIB Policy: Win - OIB - SC - Windows Update for Business - D - Reports and Telemetry - v3.0
  • Microsoft Endpoint Manager: Policy CSP - Update
  • Microsoft Deployment Update: WAAS-WUFB Group Policy