Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- Hardened baselines + strict change control = resilient systems.
- Automated configuration monitoring detects drift before attackers exploit deviations.
- Documentation and version control keep auditors—and your team—on the same page.
Why Configuration Management Matters
Misconfigurations account for a significant share of breaches. NIST SP 800‑171's Configuration Management (CM) controls (3.4.1 – 3.4.8) mandate a disciplined approach to defining, approving, and monitoring system configurations that process Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
Core CM Controls & Best Practices
| Control | Focus | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| 3.4.1 | Establish baselines | Harden OS images, disable unused services |
| 3.4.2 | Enforce change control | Use ITSM workflow & approvals |
| 3.4.3 | Track config changes | Version control + CI/CD pipeline logs |
| 3.4.4 | Analyze impact | Security testing in staging |
| 3.4.5 | Access limits | Privileged Access Management (PAM) |
| 3.4.6 | Document CM process | SOPs + diagrams |
| 3.4.7 | Monitor drift | CIS-CAT, Ansible, or Chef InSpec scans |
| 3.4.8 | Encrypt configuration data | Secrets vault + FIPS‑validated crypto |
Implementation Checklist
- Define secure baselines using CIS Benchmarks.
- Automate builds with Infrastructure as Code (IaC).
- Require peer review for every change request.
- Scan production nightly for deviation.
- Archive all CM artifacts for 3 years to simplify audits.
Next Steps with Total Assure
Total Assure helps DoD contractors implement robust CM programs, integrate IaC pipelines, and pass audits with ease. Contact us for a consultation.
