V-5626
The switch must be configured to use 802.1x authentication on host facing access switch ports.
Discussion
The IEEE 802.1x standard is a client-server based access control and authentication protocol that restricts unauthorized clients from connecting to a local area network through host facing switch ports. The authentication server authenticates each client connected to to a switch port before making any services available to the client from the LAN. Unless the client is successfully authenticated, 802.1x access control allows only Extensible Authentication Protocol over LAN (EAPOL) traffic through the port to which the client is connected. After authentication is successful, normal traffic can pass through the port. Without the use of 802.1x, a malicious user could use the switch port to connect an unauthorized piece of computer or other network device to inject or steal data from the network without detection.
Fix Text
Configure 802.11x x authentication on all accesshost switchfacing portsaccess connecting to LAN outlets (i.e., RJ-45 wall plates) or devices not located in the telecom room, wiring closets, or equipment rooms. Configure MAB on those switch ports connected to devices that do not support an 802.1x supplicant.
Check Content
Verify if the switch configuration has 802.1x authentication implemented for all access switch ports connecting to LAN outlets (i.e.,. RJ-45 wall plates) or devices not located in the telecom room, wiring closets, or equipment rooms. MACIf Authentication802.1x Bypassauthentication (MAB)is mustnot be configured on thosethese host-facing access switch ports, connectedthis tois devicesa thatCAT do1 notfinding. supportIf anMAC address filtering is implemented in lieu of 802.1x supplicantauthentication, this finding will be downgraded to a CAT 3.
NOTE: The section below is intended for classified networks. If it’s determined that 802.1x authentication or MAB is not configuredimplemented on alla accessclassified switchnetwork, portsthe connectingTraditional review team must be notified to LANdetermine outletsif the physical requirements are implemented. For a site to be downgraded to a CAT III open finding, the physical security requirements must be implemented in addition to static MAC or devicessticky secure MAC port security. If both physical and logical downgrades are not implemented, a CAT I open finding will be issued.
If classified LAN drops are not authenticated by an 802.1x implementation, they must be located inwithin thespaces telecomproperly roomestablished as Secret vaults, wiringSecret closetsSecure Rooms (AKA: Collateral Classified Open Storage Areas), TS secure room, or equipmentSCIF. roomsOtherwise, one of the following supplemental physical security controls must be implemented.
1. Wall jacks must be secured when unattended by persons with Secret or higher clearance with a properly constructed lock box (Hoffman or similar commercial product or locally fabricated). The lock box must have no exposed or removable hinges. The hasp hardware must be riveted to the box or otherwise installed so that removal will require physical breaking of the box; thereby leaving evidence of actual or attempted entry. The lock box must be secured with a 3-position high security combination padlock (IAW the NSTISSI 7003). The S&G 8077 combination padlock is the only existing padlock meeting this standard.
2. If lock boxes are not used, the alternative is to physically disconnect the SIPRNet link at the SIPRNet point of presence (PoP) after normal duty hours. The PoP must be located within a findingproper Secret or higher secure room.
Security Override Guidance
At this time, NET-NAC-009 can be downgraded to a CAT III finding if Static MAC filter is used in lieu of 802.1x authentication on host facing switch ports.
Responsibility
Information Assurance Officer
IA Controls
ECSC-1