V-255633

Discussion

System-level information includes default and customized settings and security attributes, including ACLs that relate to the network device configuration, as well as software required for the execution and operation of the device. Information system backup is a critical step in ensuring system integrity and availability. If the system fails and there is no backup of the system-level information, a denial of service condition is possible for all who use this critical network component. This control requires the network device to support the organizational central backup process for system-level information associated with the network device. This function may be provided by the network device itself; however, the preferred best practice is a centralized backup rather than each network device performing discrete backups.

Check Content

Check CounterACT to determine if the network device is configured to conduct backups of system-level information contained in the information system when changes occur or weekly, whichever is sooner.

1. Open CounterACT Console and select Tools >> Options.
2. Select the "+" next to "Advanced" menu (toward the bottom).
3. Select the “Backup” submenu.
4. On the “System Backup” tab, verify the "Enable System Backup" radio button is selected.
5. Verify the Backup schedule is selected to at least "weekly".

If CounterACT does not support the organizational requirements to conduct backups of system-level data according to the defined frequency, this is a finding.