implementing-application-whitelisting-with-applocker

# Implementing Application Whitelisting with AppLocker ## When to Use Use this skill when: - Implementing application control to prevent unauthorized software execution on Windows endpoints - Meeting compliance requirements (PCI DSS 6.4.3, NIST 800-53 CM-7, ACSC Essential Eight) - Blocking common attack vectors: living-off-the-land binaries (LOLBins), script-based attacks, unauthorized admin tools - Restricting software installation in kiosk, POS, or high-security environments **Do not use** this skill for macOS/Linux application control (use OS-native tools like Gatekeeper or AppArmor) or for enterprise-grade WDAC (Windows Defender Application Control) deployments. ## Prerequisites - Windows 10/11 Enterprise or Education, or Windows Server 2016+ - Application Identity service (AppIDSvc) enabled on target endpoints - Active Directory with Group Policy Management Console (GPMC) - Complete application inventory of approved software - Test OU with representative endpoints for policy validation ## Workflow ### Step 1: Inventory Approved Applications Before creating AppLocker rules, catalog all legitimate software: ```powershell # Generate application inventory on reference endpoint Get-AppLockerFileInformation -Directory "C:\Program Files" -Recurse ` -FileType Exe | Export-Csv "C:\AppLocker\app_inventory_progfiles.csv" -NoTypeInformation Get-AppLockerFileInformation -Directory "C:\Program Files (x86)" -Recurse ` -FileType Exe | Export-Csv "C:\AppLocker\app_inventory...