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Security Measures for “EO-Critical Software” Use

Publishing guidance that outlines security measures for critical software use – including applying practices of least privilege, network segmentation, and proper configuration – is one of NIST’s assignments to enhance the security of the software supply chain called for by a May 12, 2021, Presidential Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity (14028). NIST considered extensive input from the public via a call for position papers and workshop and has worked closely with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in producing this guidance.

The security measures for "EO-Critical Software" Use are also included in a NIST white paper.

EO critical software timeline

Questions about this guidance should be directed to: swsupplychain-eo [at] nist.gov (swsupplychain-eo[at]nist[dot]gov)

Created July 8, 2021, Updated July 9, 2021