ASD’s Essential 8 Framework
Australian Signals Directorate’s Essential 8 Robust Framework
ASD’s Essential 8
What are the Essential 8?
Application Control
Application control is a strategy that allows organizations to define and control which software applications can run on their systems. This helps prevent the execution of unauthorized or potentially malicious software.
Restrict Administrative Privileges
Limiting administrative privileges means providing only essential access to system administrators. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access, as malicious actors often target accounts with high-level privileges.
Patch Applications
Patching applications involves keeping software and programs up to date by applying the latest security patches and updates. This minimizes vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.
Patch Operating Systems
Similar to patching applications, this strategy involves keeping the operating system up to date by applying security patches. It’s a fundamental step in reducing the exposure to known vulnerabilities.
Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings
This strategy involves configuring the settings within Microsoft Office to control and secure the execution of macros. Proper configuration helps prevent macro-based attacks, a common entry point for malware.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to user logins by requiring multiple methods of verification, such as a password and a unique code sent to a mobile device. This significantly enhances login security.
User Application Hardening
User application hardening focuses on securing user-level applications to make them more resistant to exploitation. This reduces the risk of malicious actors gaining access through these applications.
Regular Backups
Regularly backing up data and systems is essential for disaster recovery and business continuity. In the event of a security incident or data loss, having up-to-date backups ensures minimal disruption and data loss.
Implementing these ASD Essential 8 strategies is crucial for enhancing an organisation’s cybersecurity posture and resilience against a wide range of cyber threats.
At IT First Responder, we are committed to fortifying your security posture by offering a comprehensive security stack that aligns seamlessly with the ASD Essential 8 guidelines. Our cyber security stack is designed to help you implement the Essential 8 strategies effectively, providing a solid foundation for safeguarding your IT infrastructure.
