Protecting the vCenter Server Windows Host

Protect the Windows host where vCenter Server is running against vulnerabilities and attacks by ensuring that the host environment is as secure as possible.

• Maintain a supported operating system, database, and hardware for the vCenter Server system. If vCenter Server is not running on a supported operating system, it might not run properly, making vCenter Server vulnerable to attacks.
• Keep the vCenter Server system properly patched. By staying up-to-date with operating system patches, the server is less vulnerable to attack.
• Provide operating system protection on the vCenter Server host. Protection includes antivirus and anti-malware software.
• On each Windows computer in the infrastructure, ensure that Remote Desktop (RDP) Host Configuration settings are set to ensure the highest level of encryption according to industry-standard guidelines or internal guidelines.

For operating system and database compatibility information, see the vSphere Compatibility Matrixes.