DISCUSSION [NIST SP 800-171 R2]
This requirement addresses the information security aspects of the system maintenance program and applies to all types of maintenance to any system component (including hardware, firmware, applications) conducted by any local or nonlocal entity. System maintenance also includes those components not directly associated with information processing and data or information retention such as scanners, copiers, and printers.
FURTHER DISCUSSION
One common form of computer security maintenance is regular patching of discovered vulnerabilities in software and operating systems, though there are others that require attention.
System maintenance includes:
corrective maintenance (e.g., repairing problems with the technology);
preventative maintenance (e.g., updates to prevent potential problems);
adaptive maintenance (e.g., changes to the operative environment); and
perfective maintenance (e.g., improve operations).
Example
You are responsible for maintenance activities on your company’s machines. This includes regular planned maintenance, unscheduled maintenance, reconfigurations when required, and damage repairs [a]. You know that failing to conduct maintenance activities can impact system security and availability, so you ensure that maintenance is regularly performed. You track all maintenance performed to assist with troubleshooting later if needed.
Potential Considerations
Are systems, devices, and supporting systems maintained per manufacturer recommendations or company defined schedules [a]?
Copyright
Copyright 2020, 2021 Carnegie Mellon University and The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC.
Copyright 2021 Futures, Inc.
This material is based upon work funded and supported by the Department of Defense under Contract No. FA8702-15-D-0002 with Carnegie Mellon University for the operation of the Software Engineering Institute, a federally funded research and development center, and under Contract No. HQ0034-13-D-0003 and Contract No. N00024-13-D-6400 with the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC, a University Affiliated Research Center.
The view, opinions, and/or findings contained in this material are those of the author(s) and should not be construed as an official Government position, policy, or decision, unless designated by other documentation.
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