Ensure Consistent Cable Colours for Systems
Use the same colour cables for each separate system to avoid confusion.
Plain language
This control is about making sure each system in your organisation uses cables that are all the same colour. It's important because it helps everyone quickly identify where a cable goes, reducing mistakes and downtime when equipment needs maintenance or fixing.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Preventative
Classifications
NC, OS, P, S, TS
ISM last updated
Feb 2023
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Section
Cabling infrastructureTopic
Cable ColoursOfficial control statement
Cables for individual systems use a consistent colour.
Why it matters
Inconsistent cable colours can cause misidentification during maintenance, leading to incorrect reconnections, prolonged outages and troubleshooting delays.
Operational notes
Define a cable colour standard per system (power, network, console) and label both ends. Train installers, and verify colour compliance during builds and maintenance.
Implementation tips
- IT manager should select standard cable colours: Decide on specific colours to be used for different systems, like using blue cables for computers and yellow for network devices. Document these choices in an accessible guide.
- Procurement staff should source the correct cables: When ordering new cables, ensure they match the standard colours decided for each system. Keep this guide handy when making purchases.
- Facilities manager should organise existing cables: Label and arrange current cables according to the new colour standards. This might involve changing some cables to match the decided scheme.
- Staff should receive training on the new cable colours: Educate everyone on recognising which colour is used for what system. Simple posters or emails can help reinforce this information.
- IT team should conduct regular reviews: Schedule checks to ensure cable colours remain consistent and correct mismatches promptly. This should be part of regular maintenance routines.
Audit / evidence tips
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Askthe cable colour policy document: Request the official document that outlines the designated colours for each type of system
Goodwill be a detailed and current document with approvals
-
Askto see purchase orders for cables: Verify that recent purchases align with the designated cable colours
Goodwill show consistent ordering of approved colours
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Askphotos or a walkthrough of the cabling: Request visual proof that installed cables follow the colour scheme
Goodwill clearly demonstrate compliance in all systems
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Askmaintenance records showing colour checks: Check records of inspections or audits of the cabling colour scheme
Goodwill show recent checks with actions noted and completed
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Askstaff training records: Request documentation that shows staff have been informed about the cable colour standards
Goodwill be a record of training events with staff signatures
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-1820 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
No cross-framework mappings recorded yet.