File servers are here to stay. Here’s how to manage them securely

Best Practice 1: Avoid Direct User Assignments

Assigning permissions directly to users is a common mistake. Instead, use dedicated, single-purpose security groups. This approach allows you to track and manage permissions more effectively. For example, instead of assigning a user directly to a group like fs_finance_read, you should create a group named fs_finance_read and add the user to this group. This way, you can see all the permissions a user has in one place, making it easier to manage and audit.

Best Practice 2: Implement the AGDLP Model

The AGDLP (Accounts, Global Groups, Domain Local Groups, and Permissions) model is a powerful tool for implementing role-based access control. By creating global groups that map to different roles in your organization, such as sales, customer support, and human resources, you can provide users with the necessary permissions without having to assign them directly to directories. For instance, if a sales team needs access to a specific directory, you can add them to a global group like sales_access and then make that group a member of the fs_sales_read group. This approach simplifies access governance and makes it easier to manage permissions across multiple directories.

Best Practice 3: Use NTFS for Granular Control

NTFS (New Technology File System) permissions provide more granular control over file server access. While share permissions control access to network resources, NTFS permissions apply to both network and local access. By setting share permissions to a high level, such as Change for users and Full Control for administrators, you can then use NTFS permissions to restrict access further. This separation of concerns makes it easier to manage permissions and ensures that users have the appropriate level of access.

Best Practice 4: Manage Inheritance Effectively

To streamline file server governance, focus on managing the top levels of your directory tree and let permissions propagate down from there. This approach leverages permission inheritance, which allows you to set permissions at a higher level and have them automatically apply to subdirectories and files. However, it's important to avoid setting explicit permissions deeper than two or three levels down your directory tree. This can help prevent unintended consequences and make it easier to manage permissions.

Best Practice 5: Adhere to the Principle of Least Privilege

The Principle of Least Privilege is a fundamental concept in IT security. Users should only have access that is strictly necessary for their job, and even then, they should hold the most restrictive permission level that still allows them to accomplish their task. By adhering to this principle, you can reduce the risk of security breaches and ensure that users have only the necessary permissions to perform their duties.