Cryptographic Protection
System and Communications Protection
NIST Control Text
- a.Determine the [Assignment: organization-defined cryptographic uses]; and
- b.Implement the following types of cryptography required for each specified cryptographic use: [Assignment: organization-defined types of cryptography].
NIST Discussion
Cryptography can be employed to support a variety of security solutions, including the protection of classified information and controlled unclassified information, the provision and implementation of digital signatures, and the enforcement of information separation when authorized individuals have the necessary clearances but lack the necessary formal access approvals. Cryptography can also be used to support random number and hash generation. Generally applicable cryptographic standards include FIPS-validated cryptography and NSA-approved cryptography. For example, organizations that need to protect classified information may specify the use of NSA-approved cryptography. Organizations that need to provision and implement digital signatures may specify the use of FIPS-validated cryptography. Cryptography is implemented in accordance with applicable laws, executive orders, directives, regulations, policies, standards, and guidelines.
SL5 Supplemental Guidance
This standard requires post-quantum (quantum-resistant) cryptographic algorithms for inline network encryptors at inter-facility boundaries per SC-8(1); the specific algorithms are selected in accordance with current guidance from a recognized national cryptographic authority and are not fixed by this standard. Cryptographic uses and types for other contexts are specified by applicable frameworks and organizational policies (CNSSI 1253 requires NIST FIPS-compliant key-management processes for unclassified NSS [4]; CNSS Policy 15 requires NSA-approved cryptography to protect national security systems [27]).