Windows Server 2025 users must be prompted to authenticate when the system wakes from sleep (plugged in).

A system that does not require authentication when resuming from sleep may provide access to unauthorized users. Authentication must always be required when accessing a system. This setting ensures users are prompted for a password when the system wakes from sleep (plugged in).

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding:

Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Power\PowerSettings\0e796bdb-100d-47d6-a2d5-f7d2daa51f51\

Value Name: ACSettingIndex

Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000001 (1)

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> System >> Power Management >> Sleep Settings >> Require a password when a computer wakes (plugged in) to "Enabled".