Office of the Chief Information Officer

United States Department of Agriculture

Information Systems and Network Security

an image of a open padlock with the open end above a small image of a workstation. Text reads: NITC provides key security services to ensure a safe operating environment for business applications.

 

Service Description

NITC provides Information Systems and Network Security services that provide safe network access, security administration, monitoring and assessment to meet data security management requirements.

What is Included

NITC performs the following system security tasks for systems physically and/or logically located within the NITC Enterprise Network boundaries:

  • Enterprise Network Firewall and Access Control List administration
  • Enterprise Network Remote Access and Admission Controls administration
  • Enterprise Network Intrusion Detection System (IDS) monitoring
  • Enterprise Operating System (OS) vulnerability scanning and reporting to the Customer System Security Officer
  • Enterprise compliance scanning to ensure the systems are maintained with proper baseline configuration standards and patch management
  • Identity and Access Management administration which includes:
    • OS level security in the form of User ID/Password verification
    • Enforce strict security policies regarding system access
  • Optional Application Scanning is available for an additional cost

How We Charge

With the exception of Application Scanning, the cost of this service is included when NITC Network Services are utilized.

Hosting services that include Network Security Services:

Costs associated with optional Application Scanning services are based on software license fees and amount of actual professional services hours incurred.

Service Level Metrics

Measure Service Level Targets
System Monitoring 24 x 7
Incident Response 24 x 7

Cost Saving Tips

  • Utilize NITC Network Services instead of hosting a private networking solution
  • Provide at least 180 days notice for growth or retraction of processing requirements
  • Communicate projected networking requirements on a quarterly basis
  • Limit internet usage to business related activities

Additional Information

NITC also provides Security Governance Services that include limited control documentation, control inheritance, and audit support.

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