How to configure COM protection in HIPS

Introduction

• The ‘COM Variables’ tab in ‘System Templates’ lets you view, manage and create COM groups

• A COM group is a collection of interfaces which you can choose to protect in Endpoint Manager

• COM groups, including any you create, can be chosen as targets for protection when creating a profile

• For example, you can choose a COM group for protection when configuring HIPS in a profile

• The page explains how you can view existing COM groups, create new groups, and bring COM groups under HIPS protection

Step 1: View and Manage COM groups

• In C1, click ‘Applications’ > ‘Endpoint manager’

• Click ‘Settings’ > ‘System Templates’ > ‘COM Variables’

• The variables screen lists all existing COM groups:

• Predefined groups are marked ‘Default’ and cannot be edited

• You can, however, create custom groups which consists of interfaces you choose. See next step.

Step 2: Create a custom COM group

• Open the COM group screen as described in step 1

• Type a name for your new group in the field provided then click the ‘+’ button

• The new group will be listed under ‘COM Groups’

Step 3: Add COM interfaces to your new group

• Open the COM Variables interface (step 1) then create a new custom group (step 2)

• Expand the group to which you want to add interfaces (click the ‘+’ icon on the left)

• Define a name for the interface. The example below shows ’\ RPC Control’, which will capture all components that make remote procedure calls

• Click ‘Add’. The new interface will be listed as a class in your group

• The controls at the end of the row let you edit or delete the group

Step 4: Protect your new COM group with HIPS

• In C1, click ‘Applications’ > ‘Endpoint manager’ 

• Click ‘Configuration Templates’ > ‘Profiles’

• Open a profile which already has the ‘HIPS’ section

  • … OR click the ‘Add Section’ button to add ‘HIPS’ to a profile

• Click ‘HIPS’ > ‘Protected Objects’

• Modify the drop-down menus as follows:

  • Show: COM Interfaces

  • By: Groups list

• Click the ‘Add COM Group’ button, and select your new group from the list

• Your group will be added to the list of items protected by HIPS

• Click ‘Save’ to apply your new settings