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Communications infrastructure
ASD ISMISM-0213

ASD ISM 0213 Segregate patch panels for SECRET-level cables

What it says

SECRET and TOP SECRET cables are terminated on their own individual patch panels.

Quoted as published. Everything else on this page is written by Control Stack.

What it means

In plain English

Secret and top secret cables must be connected to separate patch panels for security.

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.

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.

How to implement

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Keep it running

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.

Evidence and audit

  1. Check 1 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    The physical layout documentation of the patch panels: Check if the document includes details about which panels are used for secret and top secret cables.

    Good evidence

    Is clear documentation with separate listings for each type of information.

  2. Check 2 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Look at

    The labels on the physical patch panels: Ensure that there are visibly separate panels clearly labelled as 'Secret' and 'Top Secret'.

    Good evidence

    Is distinct physical separation and clear labelling.

  3. Check 3 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    Them to explain the process of segregating patch panels for classified cables.

    Good evidence

    Is a clear explanation of the physical separation and procedures to ensure it remains that way.

  4. Check 4 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Ask for

    To see the budget or purchase orders for patch panel resources.

    Look at

    Whether separate patch panels for different classifications are accounted for.

    Good evidence

    Is evidence of allocated resources for separate patch panel implementations.

  5. Check 5 of 5What an auditor asks for

    Good evidence

    Is the observed use of correct procedures and adherence to segregation rules.

Mappings

Closest match in ISO/IEC 27001: A.8.22, Network segregation for security, which this control partially meets.

ISO 27001

ISO/IEC 27001: 2 mappings

  • A.8.22Network segregation for securityPartially meets
  • A.7.12Secure cabling for power and dataPartially overlaps

Mappings show how controls relate across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.