Develop and Verify a Cable Register
Maintain a detailed record of cables and regularly check it for accuracy.
Plain language
A cable register is like a detailed inventory list of all the cables used in your organisation. It's important because if cables are missing, outdated, or not working, it can cause communication problems, which leads to operational downtime and potential security risks.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Proactive
Classifications
NC, OS, P, S, TS
ISM last updated
June 2026
Control Stack last updated
18 June 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling InfrastructureTopic
Cable RegisterOfficial control statement
A cable register is developed, implemented, maintained and regularly verified.
Why it matters
Without a verified cable register, communications can fail unexpectedly, leading to costly downtime and potential security breaches.
Operational notes
Regularly verify and update the cable register to prevent communication disruptions and maintain accurate infrastructure records.
Implementation tips
- Office managers should start by listing every type of cable used in the organisation, from network cables to power cords. They can walk through the office with a checklist to ensure nothing is missed, marking locations and types as they go.
- IT team should ensure the cable register includes information such as the cable type, location, function, and condition. This involves checking the physical state of each cable and noting any necessary repairs.
- Managers should schedule regular reviews of the cable register. This could be a monthly task assigned during team meetings, ensuring any changes in the infrastructure are updated immediately.
- Procurement should keep the register updated whenever new cables are purchased or old ones are discarded. They can coordinate with the IT team to understand what has been replaced and update records accordingly.
- Team leaders should train staff on the importance of reporting cable issues or changes so the register remains accurate. Regular quick reminders in team meetings can reinforce the importance of keeping the register current.
Audit / evidence tips
- Askthe latest version of the cable register documentLook atthe update frequency and any recent changesGoodan up-to-date document showing recent edits and a consistent updating schedule
- Askto see documentation of recent cable maintenance or replacementsLook atif the maintenance aligns with items listed in the register as needing attentionGoodmatching records for maintenance actions and register data
- Look athow thorough the checks are on cable conditions and accuracyGooda well-documented process that verifies each entry in the register
- Asktraining records that show staff are aware of procedures for updating the cable registerLook atthe training frequency and staff completion ratesGoodcurrent training logs with completion confirmations
- Askto view past incidents related to cabling issuesLook athow these incidents were logged and resolved based on the registerGoodincidents tracked and clearly linked to register corrections
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-0211 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
sync_altPartially overlaps(1)expand_less | ||
| Annex A 7.13 | ISM-0211 requires a cable register to be maintained and regularly verified so that organisations can track physical cabling and ensure it... | |
handshakeSupports(1)expand_less | ||
| Annex A 8.9 | ISM-0211 requires a maintained and regularly verified cable register to keep accurate knowledge of physical connectivity | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.
Related ASD ISM controls in Communications infrastructure
See all Guidelines for communications infrastructure controls, or browse the full ASD ISM library.