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NIST SP 800‑171 Maintenance: Protecting Systems and Data During Maintenance Activities

System maintenance creates security gaps. Follow NIST SP 800‑171 controls to protect CUI during repairs, remote access, and off‑site servicing.

By Total Assure Team
NIST SP 800-171Security OperationsData ProtectionDefense Contractors
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Key Takeaways (TL;DR)

  • Implement rigorous maintenance protocols to secure systems and safeguard sensitive data.
  • CUI should never reside on equipment sent off‑site; sanitize devices before transport.
  • Multi‑factor authentication (MFA) and supervised sessions add critical protection during remote maintenance. citeturn4view0

Maintaining Security While Performing System Maintenance

Performing maintenance on organizational systems introduces temporary windows of risk. NIST SP 800‑171 requires organizations to control the tools, techniques, mechanisms, and personnel involved so that repairs do not compromise confidentiality, integrity, or availability. citeturn4view0

NIST SP 800‑171 Maintenance Requirements

  • 3.7.1 – Performing Maintenance on Organizational Systems: Schedule and document maintenance for hardware, firmware, software, and peripherals to preserve security and operability.
  • 3.7.2 – Controls on Tools, Techniques, Mechanisms, and Personnel: Authorize and monitor both internal and external maintenance resources, including diagnostic tools.
  • 3.7.3 – Sanitizing Equipment for Off‑Site Maintenance: Remove or encrypt CUI before equipment leaves controlled facilities.
  • 3.7.4 – Inspecting Media for Malicious Code: Scan diagnostic and test media for malware before use; invoke incident‑response plans if threats are discovered.
  • 3.7.5 / 3.7.6 – MFA & Supervision for Remote Maintenance: Require MFA for non‑local sessions, supervise personnel, and issue one‑time credentials when possible. citeturn4view0

Improving Maintenance Security

Open remote‑access sessions expand the attack surface. Close them immediately after work is completed, log all activities, and verify that no residual access remains. Never involve CUI in maintenance performed outside the enterprise boundary. citeturn4view0

Ensuring Equipment Sanitization and Media Security

  • Sanitize off‑site devices following NIST SP 800‑88 guidelines.
  • Inspect test media before insertion into production systems.
  • Maintain chain‑of‑custody records when transporting devices. citeturn4view0

Best Practices Checklist

  1. Sanitize equipment before off‑site repairs.
  2. Scan all diagnostic media for malicious code.
  3. Enforce MFA for every remote maintenance session.
  4. Supervise on‑site and remote technicians; issue temporary credentials only.
  5. Terminate remote sessions immediately after maintenance is complete.

Stay Ahead of Compliance with Total Assure

Total Assure helps contractors build maintenance procedures that satisfy NIST SP 800‑171—including protocol development, media inspection workflows, and security awareness training. Contact us for a free consultation. citeturn4view0

About Total Assure

Total Assure operates a 24/7/365 in‑house SOC and offers managed security, engineering, and GRC services that enable SMBs and DoD contractors to protect CUI and maintain compliance.

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