Build from signals
Start with the minimum signals that represent the control: encryption, secure boot, antivirus health, password posture, and OS version. Avoid adding checks simply because the portal exposes them.
Make exceptions visible
Use exclusion groups for documented business cases and give each exception an owner and expiry date. Avoid embedding exceptions in scripts where reviewers cannot see the decision.
Control: BitLocker enabled
Grace period: 3 days
Exception owner: Endpoint Security
Action: Notify, then block access after reviewConnect compliance to action
Pair noncompliant states with a remediation message, a support route, and a measured grace period. Review device counts by reason instead of treating all noncompliance as one number.
Operational checklist
- Map every setting to a security decision.
- Define grace period and user messaging.
- Assign owners and expirations to exclusions.
- Review noncompliance reasons weekly.