General Purpose Operating System SRG Version Comparison

There are 2 differences between versions v2 r5 (Jan. 26, 2023) (the "left" version) and v2 r7 (Jan. 24, 2024) (the "right" version).

Check SRG-OS-000439-GPOS-00195 was added to the benchmark in the "right" version.

This check's original form is available here.

Title

The operating system must install security-relevant software updates within the time period directed by an authoritative source (e.g., IAVM, CTOs, DTMs, and STIGs).

Check Content

Review the operating system documentation and configuration to determine if the operating system checks with a patch management system to install security-relevant software updates within a timeframe directed by an authoritative source. If the operating system does not install security-relevant patches within the time period directed by the authoritative source, this is a finding.

Discussion

Security flaws with operating systems are discovered daily. Vendors are constantly updating and patching their products to address newly discovered security vulnerabilities. Organizations (including any contractor to the organization) are required to promptly install security-relevant software updates (e.g., patches, service packs, and hot fixes). Flaws discovered during security assessments, continuous monitoring, incident response activities, or information system error handling must also be addressed expeditiously.

Fix

Configure the operating system to use a patch management system to ensure security-relevant updates are installed within the time period directed by the authoritative source.