Manage Defender Attack Surface Reduction

Use this operation to add or remove file path exceptions for Attack Surface Reduction (ASR) rules in Microsoft Defender.

Role Requirements

Procedure Scope: Administrators

Required Group Membership: Admin.Security

Handbook Reference

Package: Device Security

Domain: TBD

Modifies: TBD

When to Perform this Operation

As Needed: Proactive or in Response to User/Security

Technical Description and Importance

Managing Defender Attack Surface Reduction (ASR) file path exceptions allows for controlled exemptions to specific or all ASR rules. This approach is essential to balance operational needs with protection against advanced threats by minimizing unnecessary exposure. By carefully managing per-rule or all-rule exceptions, organizations ensure that critical workflows are not disrupted while maintaining the integrity of their security posture. Regularly reviewing and updating these exceptions reduces potential attack vectors and supports operational alignment with potential compliance or organizational requirements.

Management Options

• Exempt a File Path Per-Rule
• Exempt a File Path from All Rules

Exempt a File Path Per-Rule:

Purpose
Add a file path exception to a specific ASR rule to allow a particular file or folder to bypass that rule.
Use Case
A legitimate application file is blocked by an ASR rule, and an exception is required for its functionality.

Exempt a File Path from All Rules:

Purpose
Add a file path exception across all ASR rules to fully exclude a specific file or folder.
Use Case
A system-critical file or folder is flagged by multiple ASR rules, necessitating a blanket exception for uninterrupted operation.

Exempt a File Path Per-Rule

This operation adds a file path exception to a specific ASR rule in Microsoft Defender.

1. Defender Attack Surface Reduction Per-Rule Exception Addition

Exempt a File Path from All Rules

This operation adds a file path exception across all ASR rules in Microsoft Defender.

1. Defender Attack Surface Reduction All-Rule Exception Addition

Need Assistance?