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NIST SP 800‑171 Access Control: Strategies and Solutions

Access Control (AC) is the frontline defense for Controlled Unclassified Information. Explore NIST SP 800‑171 AC controls—role‑based permissions, least privilege, and session management—and discover practical ways to implement them.

By Total Assure Team
NIST SP 800-171Access ManagementDefense ContractorsSecurity Operations
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Key Takeaways (TL;DR)

  • Role‑based access control (RBAC) and least‑privilege policies reduce insider threat risk.
  • Strong session management (timeouts, re‑authentication) prevents hijacking.
  • Automated provisioning and periodic reviews keep permissions aligned with business needs.

AC Controls Overview

NIST SP 800‑171's Access Control (AC) family—controls 3.1.1 – 3.1.22—defines how organizations must manage user, device, and process access to systems that handle CUI. Core themes include authorization, separation of duties, and auditing.

Highlighted Controls

ControlFocusQuick Win
3.1.1Limit system accessUnique IDs, disable shared accounts
3.1.4Separate dutiesDual‑control on high‑risk tasks
3.1.6Least privilegeGrant permissions "just enough, just in time"
3.1.8Unsuccessful login lockout5‑try threshold, 30‑min cooldown
3.1.11Session lock15‑min idle timeout
3.1.18Encrypt remote sessionsSSH, TLS 1.2+

Implementation Playbook

  1. Map Roles to CUI Flows – identify which roles actually need CUI.
  2. Automate Provisioning – use IAM or HRIS triggers to apply access templates.
  3. Apply PAM for Privileged Users – JIT credentials, session recording.
  4. Review Quarterly – recertify access with department heads.
  5. Monitor & Alert – SIEM rules for privilege escalation or login anomalies.

Total Assure Can Help

Our specialists design RBAC models, deploy PAM tools, and run access‑review workshops—ensuring your AC controls meet audit scrutiny. Contact us for a free consultation.

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