ISM-1820 policy ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)

Ensure Consistent Cable Colours for Systems

Use the same colour cables for each separate system to avoid confusion.

Preventative NC OS P ASD Information Security ManualGuidelines for communications infrastructure cabling labelling

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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.

01 - Overview

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

Guideline

Guidelines for communications infrastructure

Section

Cabling infrastructure

Topic

Cable Colours

Official control statement

Cables for individual systems use a consistent colour.

policy ASD Information Security Manual (ISM) ISM-1820

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Why it matters

Inconsistent cable colours can cause misidentification during maintenance, leading to incorrect reconnections, prolonged outages and troubleshooting delays.

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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.

02 - Implement

build

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.

03 - Audit

fact_check

Audit / evidence tips

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
AskPhotos or a walkthrough of the cabling: Request visual proof that installed cables follow the colour scheme GoodWill clearly demonstrate compliance in all systems
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
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

04 - Mappings

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Cross-framework mappings

How ISM-1820 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.

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No cross-framework mappings recorded yet.