Network Switch/Router Firmware Audit Checklist

This network switch and router firmware audit checklist ensures compliance with NIST SP 800-40 Rev.4 patch management guidelines, CIS Benchmarks for network devices, CVE/NVD vulnerability databases, and CISA Binding Operational Directive (BOD) 22-01 known exploited vulnerability requirements. Designed for network administrators to audit device firmware versions, hardening configurations, and security posture quarterly. Complete all sections for each device category.

  • Industry: Telecommunications & IT
  • Frequency: Quarterly
  • Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
  • Role: Network Administrator / Infrastructure Engineer
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: NIST SP 800-40 Rev.4 Enterprise Patch Management, CIS Benchmarks for Cisco/Juniper/Aruba, CISA BOD 22-01 Known Exploited Vulnerabilities, CVE/NVD Vulnerability Database, NIST SP 800-53 SI-2 Flaw Remediation

Firmware Version Currency

Verify firmware versions are current and patched.

  • Network device firmware inventory current?
  • No end-of-life/end-of-support devices in production?
  • All critical CVE patches applied within SLA (30 days)?
  • CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog checked?
  • Patch exceptions documented with risk acceptance?

Device Hardening Configuration

CIS Benchmark hardening validation.

  • All default credentials changed?
  • Unused services and protocols disabled?
  • Management access restricted to dedicated management VLAN?
  • SSH v2 only (Telnet disabled)?
  • SNMP v3 configured (SNMP v1/v2c disabled)?

Access Control Configuration

Authentication and authorization controls.

  • RADIUS/TACACS+ authentication configured for all devices?
  • Privilege levels configured per role (read vs. admin)?
  • Console and VTY idle timeout configured (<= 10 minutes)?
  • Warning banners configured on all VTY lines?
  • Enable secret using strong hashing (not enable password)?

Logging and Monitoring

Device logging configuration for security monitoring.

  • Syslog to centralized SIEM configured on all devices?
  • NTP configured and time synchronized?
  • Configuration change audit trail enabled?
  • Interface error counters reviewed for anomalies?
  • Critical alerts configured in NMS (link down, high CPU)?

Configuration Management

Backup and change management for device configurations.

  • Device configurations backed up regularly (at least daily for changes)?
  • Configuration restore tested on non-production device?
  • Configuration versioning/git-based management in place?
  • Process to detect unauthorized configuration changes?
  • Running config saved to startup config after changes?

Audit Results and Remediation

Document findings and plan remediation.

  • Critical findings requiring immediate remediation identified?
  • Remediation plan with priorities and owners created?
  • Change requests submitted for remediation items?
  • Quarterly firmware audit report prepared?
  • Audit Findings Summary

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Why Use This Network Switch/Router Firmware Audit Checklist?

This network switch/router firmware audit checklist helps telecommunications & it teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for network administrator / infrastructure engineer professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: quarterly.

Ensures compliance with NIST SP 800-40 Rev.4 Enterprise Patch Management, CIS Benchmarks for Cisco/Juniper/Aruba, CISA BOD 22-01 Known Exploited Vulnerabilities, CVE/NVD Vulnerability Database, NIST SP 800-53 SI-2 Flaw Remediation. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Network Switch/Router Firmware Audit Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Firmware Version Currency, Device Hardening Configuration, Access Control Configuration, Logging and Monitoring, Configuration Management, Audit Results and Remediation. It is designed for telecommunications & it operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed quarterly. Each completion takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Who should use this Network Switch/Router Firmware Audit Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Network Administrator / Infrastructure Engineer professionals in the telecommunications & it industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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