Configuration Management Best Practices Checklist for CMMC Compliance

Configuration management is critical for protecting IT systems, which, in turn, reduces cybersecurity risks. Consider these configuration management best practices to not only meet the CMMC configuration management requirement, but also to ensure the integrity and reliability of your IT systems.

1. Establish Clear Configuration Management Policies

Develop detailed and thorough policies and procedures that cover every facet of configuration management. This includes defining roles and responsibilities, establishing processes for documenting and approving changes, and setting guidelines for version control and auditing. Regularly review and updates these policies as necessary.

2. Maintain a Baseline Configuration

Create a detailed documentation of the initial system setup, including hardware specifications, installed software, network settings, security configurations, and any other pertinent details as a reference point for any future alterations to the system.

3. Implement Configuration Change Control

Implement a thorough and disciplined change control procedure designed to review, authorize, and record every modification in configurations. Conduct rigorous testing to validate that these changes do not inadvertently create new vulnerabilities or issues, thereby maintaining the integrity and security of the system.

4. Enforce Least Functionality

Tailor systems to ensure they deliver only the essential functions and services necessary for their intended use. Once you identify the core requirements disable or entirely remove any extraneous features, services, or applications that do not serve a critical function.

5. Apply Configuration Settings

Tailor system configurations, network settings, and application parameters that align with established industry standards and best practices to minimize potential vulnerabilities and protect against unauthorized access. Refer to frameworks such as the Center for Internet Security (CIS) benchmarks, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines, and other relevant resources that provide comprehensive and actionable security recommendations.

6. Implement Least Privilege

Assign users and systems only the access permissions that are necessary to carry out their specific functions and responsibilities, limiting the exposure of sensitive data and critical resources. Assess current operational demands, make necessary adjustments, and remove any unnecessary permissions that could pose security threats.

7. Control User-Installed Software

Create comprehensive policies and detailed procedures to oversee and control software installed by users. Ensure that all approved software is subjected to a routine schedule of updates and security patches to maintain its integrity and functionality. Finally, forbid the installation of unauthorized software.

8. Conduct Regular Audits and Assessments

Systematically review and evaluate your current configuration management processes, policies, and tools to ensure they align with best practices and regulatory requirements, including CMMC. Through these audits, you can pinpoint weaknesses and vulnerabilities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

9. Provide Continuous Training and Awareness

Ensure that everyone involved in configuration management remains proficient and up-to-date so employees will be better equipped to recognize and respond to emerging threats. By maintaining rigorous and updated training programs, organizations can ensure that their configuration management processes are both efficient and secure.

10. Utilize Automated Tools

Incorporate automated tools to enhance efficiency and reduces manual intervention, thereby minimizing errors and saving time. Examples include a configuration management database (CMDB), automated change management tools, security information and event management (SIEM) systems and more.

11. Document Configuration Changes

Maintain thorough documentation for each configuration change. Record every aspect of the change process, including the specific changes made to system configurations, like settings modifications, software or hardware updates, and policy or procedure adjustments. Explain why the change was necessary and what the change aims to achieve. Finally, document the approvals obtained to ensure that every change has been reviewed and authorized by the appropriate stakeholders.

12. Implement Incident Response Procedures

Establish a comprehensive incident response plan specifically tailored to address configuration-related incidents. This plan should outline clear, step-by-step procedures for detecting, responding to, and mitigating incidents effectively. The plan should also detail steps to mitigate the impact of the incident. Finally, the plan should incorporate a post-incident review process. Regularly update the plan so it stays current with new threats and improves response strategies.