Basic Windows security is a major component of the CyberPatriot competition. Windows operating systems include desktops, servers, and embedded systems. While Windows operating systems heavily use graphical user interfaces (GUIs), they all still have a command-line shell. Earlier XP-based operating systems (Windows Server 2003) only had the command prompt (cmd.exe), and later versions also have the Powershell.
Unfortunately, CyberPatriot is no longer able to offer MSDN services or Windows license keys.
The Microsoft TechNet is a good resource for learning about Windows, as are the basic training modules that have been developed for our program. Here are some other links that may be helpful:
- Automatic Updates - A feature that allows you to easily and effectively keep your computer up-to-date.
- Forensics - A guide on how to determine if your computer has been attacked.
- GodMode - A special mode in later Windows operating systems that gives you access to a wide range of administrative tasks.
- Malware and Services - Information on malware that disguise themselves as legitimate services.
- Recovery Console - A boot-up option that can fix startup problems.
- Safe Mode - A boot-up option that allows you to run administrative and diagnostic tasks.
- SVCHOST - A primer on services and processes in general, and svchost.exe in particular.
- Sysinternals - A database of system tools developed by Microsoft.
- System Restore - A feature that lets you restore your computer to known working conditions.
- Windows Firewall - Information on the first line of defense against attacks.
- Windows Networking - Tutorials on networking in Windows.
- Windows Registry - A database that stores the configuration settings for the operating system.