Disabling IPv6
Disabling IPv6 KB ID 0001832 Problem Stop! Why do you want to disable IPv6? I see this regularly in forums, with other unusual statements like “If you’re not using it disabling it” or “It’s just another attack vector, disable it.” Well unless you’re running Windows XP and Server 2012 you’re using IPv6. If something does not work and disabling IPv6 fixes it, then it’s usually...
Windows Server: Disabling SSL 3.0, TLS 1.0, and TLS 1.1
KB ID 0001675 What are these protocols? Both SSL and TLS are cryptographic protocols designed to secure communications over a network (remember the internet is just a network). Originally we had SSL version 1 and version 2. But they were, (to be honest) ‘a bit bobbins’ and full of security holes, so never really took off. Version 3 however did and was widely supported. The problem with version 3 was, (again) that was also ‘bobbins’....
How to Tell if Windows is 32 or 64 bit
KB ID 0000153 Problem If you want to know what version (x64 or x86) of Windows you are running, then this is the simplest way to find out. Solution Under accessories run system information; Under System Type: If it says x86 then it’s 32 bit. However if it says x64 then it’s 64 bit. Windows XP and Server 2003 1. Click Start > Run > sysdm.cpl {enter} > General Tab. Windows XP x32 (x86) and Windows XP x64 Windows...
WannaCry – Protect Yourself
KB ID 0001311 Problem Last Friday, the IT world was hit by another attack, WannaCry is a Ransomware infection, that exploits a hole in the windows SMB Protocol. This hole was patched back in March, (Security update MS17-010) so if your, (windows update supported systems) have updates enabled, you will probably already be protected. Why were big organisations like the NHS hit? Primarily because they have systems that are no longer...
Windows Firewall – Enable ‘Ping’ / ICMP Echo Reply
KB ID 0001134 Problem By default all modern distributions of Windows come with their client firewall enabled. Which is a good thing, most corporate networks simply disable it using the rationale that they have a corporate firewall and security software etc. Again thats fine, but what if you want to leave it on, and still be able to ping that host to see if its alive. Solution The firewall exception is already written for you, you...
Windows – Black Screen Of Death
KB ID 0000152 Problem Post Microsoft KB 915597 and KB 976098 updates. You PC will boot, and you will see a totally black screen with (but not always) a Windows explorer window. Solution Credit to the guys at Prevx who have a fix online already. 1) Restart your PC. 2) Logon and wait for the black screen to appear. 3) Make sure your PC should be able to connect to the internet (black screen does not appear to affect this). 4) Press the...