Network Configuration Audit Approach and Methodology

Our Approach for Network Configuration Audit:

1.Familiarization with CIS Benchmark:

Obtain the latest version of the CIS Benchmark for the specific network device or platform to be audited. Familiarize yourself with the configuration guidelines, security recommendations, and best practices provided by the CIS Benchmark.

2.Audit Scope Definition:

Define the scope of the network configuration audit, including the specific network devices, routers, switches, or firewalls to be audited. Identify the target configurations and settings to be reviewed based on the CIS Benchmark recommendations.

3.Configuration Baseline Creation:

Establish a configuration baseline that aligns with the CIS Benchmark guidelines. Document the current configuration settings of each network device to be audited as the baseline for comparison during the audit.

4.Automated Tools Selection:

Select appropriate automated configuration auditing tools that support the CIS Benchmark for the targeted network devices. These tools help efficiently identify deviations from the baseline and provide detailed reports on non-compliant settings.

5.Configuration Data Collection:

Collect the configuration data from the target network devices using the selected automated tools. Ensure that the tools are properly configured to retrieve the necessary configuration parameters and security settings.

6.Comparison with CIS Benchmark:

Compare the configuration data collected from each network device against the CIS Benchmark guidelines. Identify any deviations, misconfigurations, or non-compliant settings.

7.Risk Assessment:

Evaluate the impact of identified configuration deviations on the overall security of the network. Conduct a risk assessment to prioritize findings based on the severity and potential impact on the network's availability, confidentiality, and integrity.

8.Security Hardening Review:

Review the security hardening settings implemented on network devices to ensure they align with the CIS Benchmark recommendations. Security hardening involves disabling unnecessary services, applying access controls, and implementing encryption where required.

9.Log and Monitoring Configuration:

Assess the logging and monitoring configurations to ensure they meet the CIS Benchmark recommendations. Verify that logs capture relevant security events and are protected from unauthorized access or tampering.

10.Authentication and Access Controls:

Verify the authentication settings and access controls configured on network devices to ensure they comply with the CIS Benchmark guidelines. Review user accounts, passwords, and administrative access permissions.

11.Reporting and Recommendations:

Document all findings, including identified deviations, misconfigurations, and non-compliant settings. Prepare a detailed audit report that includes the audit scope, methodology, observations, risk assessments, and recommendations. Provide clear and actionable recommendations to address identified issues and bring the network configurations in line with the CIS Benchmark guidelines.

12.Remediation and Follow-up:

Collaborate with the network administrators to prioritize and implement the necessary configuration changes. Work on remediation efforts to address identified issues and deviations. Conduct follow-up assessments to verify the effectiveness of the remediation efforts.

13.Continuous Monitoring:

Implement continuous monitoring practices to ensure that network configurations remain compliant with the CIS Benchmark over time. Regularly review and update the configuration baseline as per the latest CIS Benchmark updates or organizational changes.