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IA-3(1)Device Identification and Authentication | Cryptographic Bidirectional Authentication

IL5
IL6

>Control Description

Authenticate organization-defined devices and/or types of devices before establishing [Selection (one or more): local; remote; network] connection using bidirectional authentication that is cryptographically based.

>DoD Impact Level Requirements

No specific parameter values or requirements for this impact level.

>Discussion

A local connection is a connection with a device that communicates without the use of a network. A network connection is a connection with a device that communicates through a network. A remote connection is a connection with a device that communicates through an external network.

Bidirectional authentication provides stronger protection to validate the identity of other devices for connections that are of greater risk.

>Related Controls

>Assessment Interview Topics

Questions assessors commonly ask

Process & Governance:

  • What formal policies and procedures govern the implementation of IA-3(1) (Cryptographic Bidirectional Authentication)?
  • Who are the designated roles responsible for implementing, maintaining, and monitoring IA-3(1)?
  • How frequently is the IA-3(1) policy reviewed and updated, and what triggers policy changes?
  • What governance structure ensures IA-3(1) requirements are consistently applied across all systems?

Technical Implementation:

  • Describe the specific technical mechanisms or controls used to enforce IA-3(1) requirements.
  • What automated tools, systems, or technologies are deployed to implement IA-3(1)?
  • How is IA-3(1) integrated into your system architecture and overall security posture?
  • What configuration settings, parameters, or technical specifications enforce IA-3(1) requirements?

Evidence & Documentation:

  • What documentation demonstrates the complete implementation of IA-3(1)?
  • What audit logs, records, reports, or monitoring data validate IA-3(1) compliance?
  • Can you provide evidence of periodic reviews, assessments, or testing of IA-3(1) effectiveness?
  • What artifacts would you present during a FedRAMP assessment to demonstrate IA-3(1) compliance?

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