Segregate Patch Panels for Secret-Level Cables
Secret and top secret cables must be connected to separate patch panels for security.
Plain language
This control is about keeping secret and top secret cables separate by connecting them to different patch panels. This is important because if these cables are mixed, sensitive information could be accidentally exposed to people without the proper clearance, risking security breaches or information leaks.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Preventative
Classifications
S, TS
ISM last updated
Feb 2023
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling infrastructureOfficial control statement
SECRET and TOP SECRET cables are terminated on their own individual patch panels.
Why it matters
If SECRET and TOP SECRET cables share a patch panel, cross-connection or improper access could expose higher-classified traffic and breach national security.
Operational notes
Maintain dedicated, clearly labelled patch panels for SECRET and TOP SECRET; perform scheduled audits and tracing to confirm terminations stay segregated and prevent cross-patching.
Implementation tips
- The IT team should identify which cables carry secret and top secret information. They can do this by checking the documentation that labels the cables based on their information classification.
- Once identified, the IT team should ensure that each group of classified cables is connected to its own patch panel. They can do this by physically separating the cables and using different panels that are clearly labelled for secret or top secret use.
- Managers should support the IT team by ensuring they have the necessary budget and resources to purchase separate patch panels if needed, and to make the necessary physical adjustments.
- System owners should work with the IT team to regularly review the setup of patch panels to ensure that no mistakes have been made. This can be done through periodic inspections.
- Training needs to be provided by the IT team for all staff dealing with these systems to ensure they understand the importance of keeping patch panels segregated and how to avoid errors.
Audit / evidence tips
- AskThe physical layout documentation of the patch panels: Check if the document includes details about which panels are used for secret and top secret cables GoodIs clear documentation with separate listings for each type of information
- GoodIs distinct physical separation and clear labelling
- AskThem to explain the process of segregating patch panels for classified cables GoodIs a clear explanation of the physical separation and procedures to ensure it remains that way
- AskTo see the budget or purchase orders for patch panel resources GoodIs evidence of allocated resources for separate patch panel implementations
- GoodIs the observed use of correct procedures and adherence to segregation rules
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-0213 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
| sync_alt Partially overlaps (1) expand_less | ||
| Annex A 7.12 | ISM-0213 mandates that SECRET and TOP SECRET cables be terminated on individual patch panels to prevent cross-connection and mitigation o... | |
| link Related (1) expand_less | ||
| Annex A 8.22 | ISM-0213 requires SECRET and TOP SECRET network cables to be terminated on separate, dedicated patch panels to enforce physical segregati... | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.