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