Securely managing software and system configurations is a challenge. But software and system configuration management is critical to information security. This is where a Definitive Media Library (DML) comes in.
A DML is a secure, centralized repository that stores authorized, known-good copies of software, operating systems, and configurations. It plays a crucial role in ensuring consistency, security, and control over IT infrastructure. The DML ensures that only trusted, verified versions are used across the organization. This is critical for managing operating system deployments, software patches, or application updates.
Maintaining a DML is also necessary for maintaining cybersecurity compliance with frameworks like CMMC. Although NIST 800-171 does not specifically use the term DML to describe managed software and system configurations, the concept is clearly embedded in CMMC requirements.
For example, CM.L2-3.4.1 requires organizations to establish and maintain baseline configurations. A DML helps organizations achieve this by storing only approved, tested versions of software and configurations. These baselines represent the “known good” states that can be deployed across the organization. This ensures consistency and security. With a DML, systems are deployed and updated with the same authorized versions. Using only authorized versions avoids introducing vulnerabilities with unapproved software. Configuring new systems or restoring systems to a secure baseline is straightforward. The last thing an organization needs is a manual deployment process where every workstation or device is configured manually. This is not only error-prone but also time-consuming.
In addition, CM.L2-3.4.2 requires organizations to track, review, approve or disapprove, and log changes to information systems. All software updates or configuration changes must go through a rigorous approval process to ensure they meet security standards before being released into production environments. A DML provides the means to log and track these changes, creating a full audit trail of what software versions were deployed and when. Implementing a Definitive Media Library (DML) is more than just good IT practice—it’s a key part of maintaining security, consistency, and compliance.
By using a DML, organizations can not only keep their software under control but also meet auditable requirements for ensuring the secure and authorized use of system configurations and software changes.
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