Host must have an accurate Exception Users list

MediumLevel 1Manual reviewvmware

Description

Establishing an accurate Exception Users list is essential for managing user privileges during lockdown mode. Users on this list retain their privileges, making it imperative to include only those necessary for direct host access like service accounts for third-party solutions. Manual review: the check needs vCenter/PowerCLI, firmware or guest access, or an organization-specific value.

How it is checked

Audit method: Manual review

This recommendation cannot be checked automatically. A scan lists it with these instructions when you pass --include-manual.

To verify the membership of the "Exception Users" list, perform the following in the vSphere Web Client: 1. Select the host. 2. Click on Configure then expand System and select Security Profile. 3. Under Lockdown Mode view and verify the list of Exception Users for accuracy.

How it is fixed

Fix method: Guidance or infrastructure patch

To correct the membership of the Exception Users list, perform the following in the vSphere Web Client: 1. Select the host. 2. Click on Configure then expand System and select Security Profile. 3. Select Edit next to Lockdown Mode. 4. Click on Exception Users. 5. Add or delete users as appropriate. 6. Click OK.

Properties

Operating systems: Any
Tags: vmwareesximanagement
Reference: CIS VMware ESXi 9.0 Benchmark v1.0.0 - 3.19 Host must have an accurate Exception Users list