Palo Alto Networks NDM STIG Version Comparison

There are 15 differences between versions v2 r2 (Oct. 26, 2022) (the "left" version) and v3 r2 (Oct. 24, 2024) (the "right" version).

Check PANW-NM-000048 was added to the benchmark in the "right" version.

This check's original form is available here.

Title

The Palo Alto device must be configured with only one local account to be used as the account of last resort in the event the authentication server is unavailable.

Check Content

Navigate to Device >> Administrators. If there is an authentication profile/user account configured (and enabled) for any account other than the emergency administration account, this is a finding.

Discussion

Authentication for administrative (privileged level) access to the device is required at all times. An account can be created on the device's local database for use when the authentication server is down or connectivity between the device and the authentication server is not operable. This account is referred to as the account of last resort since it is intended to be used as a last resort and when immediate administrative access is absolutely necessary. The account of last resort logon credentials must be stored in a sealed envelope and kept in a safe. The safe must be periodically audited to verify the envelope remains sealed. The signature of the auditor and the date of the audit should be added to the envelope as a record. Administrators should secure the credentials and disable the root account (if possible) when not needed for system administration functions.

Fix

Navigate to Device >> Authentication Profile. Remove any unauthorized or unnecessary authentication profiles for users other than the account of last resort. Select "OK".