NIST SP 800-37 C&A Methodology: Security Categorization Phase

Security Categorization Phase

Question

You work as a security manager for BlueWell Inc.

You are going through the NIST SP 800-37 C&A methodology, which is based on four well defined phases.

In which of the following phases of NIST SP 800-37 C&A methodology does the security categorization occur.

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

B.

The correct answer is B. Initiation.

NIST SP 800-37 is a risk management framework for information systems security that provides a structured approach to the security authorization of federal information systems. The framework is based on four well-defined phases:

  1. Initiation: In this phase, the scope and objectives of the security authorization process are defined. The system is identified, and the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders are established. The system's security categorization is also determined based on the information types and the impact levels on the organization.

  2. Security Assessment: In this phase, the security controls are assessed to ensure they are implemented correctly, are operating as intended, and are effective in providing the necessary protection to the system.

  3. Security Authorization: In this phase, the results of the security assessment are reviewed, and the system is approved for operation based on the risks and the organization's risk tolerance.

  4. Continuous Monitoring: In this phase, the system's security posture is continuously monitored to ensure that it continues to operate within the organization's risk tolerance.

Therefore, the security categorization of the system occurs in the Initiation phase. This step is essential because it identifies the system's potential impact on the organization and determines the appropriate level of protection needed to safeguard it. The security categorization drives the selection of the security controls that will be assessed and evaluated during the Security Assessment phase.

In summary, the NIST SP 800-37 C&A methodology has four well-defined phases, and the security categorization of the system occurs in the Initiation phase.