Label and Protect Long TS Fibre-Optic Leads
Ensure long TS fibre-optic cables are protected, easy to inspect, and labelled at the equipment end.
Plain language
This control is about making sure that long fibre-optic cables, which are used to send data between equipment and wall outlets, are well protected and clearly labelled. It matters because if these cables are damaged or incorrectly connected, sensitive 'top secret' information could be exposed or lost, potentially leading to serious security breaches.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Preventative
Classifications
TS
ISM last updated
May 2024
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling infrastructureTopic
Fly Lead InstallationOfficial control statement
If TOP SECRET fibre-optic fly leads exceeding five metres in length are used to connect wall outlet boxes to IT equipment, they are run in a protective and easily inspected pathway that is clearly labelled at the IT equipment end with the wall outlet box's identifier.
Why it matters
A lack of protection and labelling for >5m TS fibre-optic cables risks data breaches by exposing TOP SECRET communications to damage or misrouting.
Operational notes
Regularly inspect the >5m TS fibre fly lead pathway for tampering/damage and confirm the IT-end label matches the wall outlet box identifier.
Implementation tips
- The IT team should create a clear and protective pathway for long fibre-optic cables. They can do this by installing cable trays or conduits that are easy to open up for inspections, ensuring that all cables are tucked securely and cannot be damaged or accidentally unplugged.
- Facility managers should ensure the pathways of these fibre-optic cables are properly maintained. Conduct regular checks to make sure there is no physical damage or wear that might compromise the cables' security or performance.
- The IT staff responsible for network setup should label the fibre-optic cables at the equipment end with the identifier from the wall outlet box. Use durable labels that can withstand wear and tear and ensure they are easy to read.
- Procurement officers should purchase only cables and labelling materials that meet required standards for top secrecy environments. Work with vendors who understand security needs and can provide compliant products.
- Managers should educate staff about the importance of not tampering with these labelled cables. Host information sessions so everyone understands the role these cables play in securing sensitive information.
Audit / evidence tips
- AskThe cable layout plan: Request a document or blueprint showing where and how fibre-optic cables are installed GoodPlan is clear, with pathways that minimise exposure and damage risk
- AskThem how they label and verify the integrity of these cables GoodIncludes a regular inspection process and clear record-keeping of checks
- GoodInspection is quick, thorough, and finds no unlabelled or loosely secured cables
- AskTo see logs or schedules detailing regular maintenance GoodRecord is up-to-date, detailed, and shows timely resolutions to past issues
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-0218 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
ISO 27001
| Control | Notes | Details |
|---|---|---|
| layers Partially meets (2) expand_less | ||
| Annex A 5.13 | ISM-0218 requires TOP SECRET fibre-optic fly leads over five metres to be run in a protective, easily inspected pathway and to be clearly... | |
| Annex A 7.6 | ISM-0218 mandates a physical protection and identification method for long TOP SECRET fibre-optic fly leads (protective, easily inspected... | |
These mappings show relationships between controls across frameworks. They do not imply full equivalence or certification.