Title

Exchange software must be installed on a separate partition from the OS. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

In the same way that added security layers can provide a cumulative positive effect on security posture, multiple applications can provide a cumulative negative effect. A vulnerability and subsequent exploit to one application can lead to an exploit of other applications sharing the same security context. For example, an exploit to a web server process that leads to unauthorized administrative access to the host system can most likely lead to a compromise of all applications hosted by the same system. Email services should be installed on a partition that does not host other applications. Email services should never be installed on a Domain Controller/Directory Services server.

Check Content

Review the Email Domain Security Plan (EDSP). Determine the directory where Exchange is installed. Open Windows Explorer. Navigate to the location where Exchange is installed. If Exchange resides on a directory or partition other than that of the OS and does not have other applications installed (without associated approval from the ISSO), this is not a finding.

Fix Text

Update the EDSP to reflect the directory where Exchange is installed. Install Exchange on a dedicated application directory or partition separate than that of the OS.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-221257r961608_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-221257

Group Title: SRG-APP-000431

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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