Fips 199/Nist 800-60 System Categorization Template Guide

In today's world of information security, it's essential to understand the sensitivity and criticality of an organization's systems and data. The Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 199 and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-60 provide a framework for categorizing systems based on their impact level. This guide will walk you through the process of using the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 system categorization template to assess and categorize your organization's systems.

Understanding the Importance of System Categorization

System categorization is a critical process that helps organizations understand the potential impact of a security breach or loss of data. By categorizing systems based on their impact level, organizations can identify areas that require more stringent security controls and allocate resources effectively. The FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 framework provides a standardized approach to system categorization, ensuring that organizations can compare and contrast their systems with others in the industry.

Overview of the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 Framework

The FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 framework provides a three-tiered system categorization approach, with each tier representing a different impact level. The tiers are:

• Low Impact: Systems that, if compromised, would have a limited impact on the organization or individuals.
• Moderate Impact: Systems that, if compromised, would have a moderate impact on the organization or individuals.
• High Impact: Systems that, if compromised, would have a severe impact on the organization or individuals.

Using the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 System Categorization Template

To use the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 system categorization template, follow these steps:

1. Identify the System: Identify the system that needs to be categorized.
2. Determine the System's Function: Determine the system's function and the type of data it processes, stores, or transmits.
3. Assess the Potential Impact: Assess the potential impact of a security breach or loss of data on the organization or individuals.
4. Categorize the System: Based on the assessment, categorize the system as Low, Moderate, or High impact.

System Categorization Factors

When categorizing a system, consider the following factors:

• Confidentiality: The sensitivity of the data processed, stored, or transmitted by the system.
• Integrity: The importance of maintaining the accuracy and completeness of the data.
• Availability: The criticality of the system's availability to the organization or individuals.

Categorization Example

Let's consider an example of a system categorization:

• System: Employee Database
• Function: Stores employee personal and financial information
• Potential Impact: Unauthorized access to employee data could result in identity theft and financial loss
• Categorization: High Impact

Best Practices for System Categorization

To ensure accurate and effective system categorization, follow these best practices:

• Use a Standardized Approach: Use a standardized approach, such as the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 framework, to ensure consistency across the organization.
• Involve Stakeholders: Involve stakeholders from various departments to ensure that all aspects of the system are considered.
• Document the Process: Document the system categorization process to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Review and Update: Review and update system categorizations regularly to ensure they remain accurate and effective.

Conclusion

System categorization is a critical process that helps organizations understand the sensitivity and criticality of their systems and data. By using the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 system categorization template, organizations can ensure that their systems are properly categorized and that resources are allocated effectively to protect against security breaches and data loss. Remember to use a standardized approach, involve stakeholders, document the process, and review and update system categorizations regularly to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of the process.

FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 System Categorization Template Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to using the FIPS 199/NIST 800-60 system categorization template. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don't hesitate to ask. Share your thoughts and experiences with system categorization in the comments below.