This policy setting allows you to manage whether the Windows Remote Management (WinRM) client uses Basic authentication. If you enable this policy setting, the WinRM client will use Basic authentication. If WinRM is configured to use HTTP transport, then the user name and password are sent over the network as clear text. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, then the WinRM client will not use Basic authentication. Vulnerability: Basic authentication is less robust than other authentication methods available in WinRM because credentials including passwords are transmitted in plain text. An attacker who is able to capture packets on the network where WinRM is running may be able to determine the credentials used for accessing remote hosts via WinRM. Counter Measure: Disable this policy setting. Potential Impact: If you enable this policy setting, the WinRM client will use Basic authentication. If WinRM is configured to use HTTP transport, then the user name and password are sent over the network as clear text. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, then the WinRM client will not use Basic authentication. Fix: (1) GPO: Computer ConfigurationAdministrative TemplatesWindows ComponentsWindows Remote Management (WinRM)WinRM ClientAllow Basic authentication (2) REG: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwarePoliciesMicrosoftWindowsWinRMClient!AllowBasic

[enable/disable]

(1) GPO: Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Windows Remote Management (WinRM)\WinRM Client\Allow Basic authentication (2) REG: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WinRM\Client!AllowBasic