When handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), security is not optional—it’s a requirement. But many organizations ask, what level of system and network is required for cui to stay compliant and secure? The answer lies in understanding federal guidelines, especially those outlined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This article breaks down the top five things you need to know about what level of system and network is required for CUI to help you remain compliant and protect sensitive data.
1. Understand the Role of NIST SP 800-171
The first step to understanding what level of system and network is required for CUI is knowing the role of NIST SP 800-171. This publication sets the security requirements for protecting CUI in non-federal information systems. It outlines 14 control families and 110 security requirements that answer the question of what level of system and network is required for CUI in clear, actionable terms. Organizations must implement access control, audit and accountability, incident response, and other key practices.
2. Assess Your Current IT Infrastructure
If you’re wondering what level of system and network is required for CUI, start by assessing your current setup. Does your system include access controls? Is data encrypted during transmission and storage? Are there audit logs in place? These are some baseline features needed to meet the level of system and network security required for CUI. A comprehensive risk assessment will reveal the gaps in your compliance and guide necessary upgrades.
3. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Another essential answer to what level of system and network is required for CUI lies in identity verification. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is no longer optional—it’s a must. Implementing MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring users to verify their identity through more than just a password. This helps secure both on-premises systems and cloud-based environments and meets the basic expectations of what level of system and network is required for CUI.
4. Network Segmentation and Monitoring
When thinking about what level of system and network is required for CUI, network segmentation plays a critical role. Isolating CUI from the rest of your network limits exposure if a breach occurs. Alongside segmentation, continuous network monitoring detects unusual activity, flags threats, and supports incident response efforts. Monitoring tools and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are key components of the system and network level required for CUI.
5. Regular Training and Policy Updates
A final but equally important element in defining what level of system and network is required for CUI is human behavior. Your security is only as strong as the people using the system. Regular cybersecurity training, user awareness programs, and up-to-date security policies help ensure that employees understand their role in protecting CUI. Keeping your policies aligned with NIST recommendations ensures that your organization remains at the correct system and network level for CUI protection.
Conclusion
In today’s digital age, protecting Controlled Unclassified Information is a legal and ethical responsibility. So, what level of system and network is required for CUI? It’s a combination of following NIST SP 800-171, implementing multi-factor authentication, using proper encryption, conducting regular assessments, and educating your workforce. When each of these elements is aligned, your organization is better positioned to maintain confidentiality, integrity, and availability of CUI. By focusing on these five critical areas, you’ll not only understand what level of system and network is required for CUI, but you’ll also be well-equipped to meet those requirements and ensure long-term compliance and security.
