ISO 27001:2022 Annex A 8.19 Checklist Guide •

ISO 27001:2022 Annex A 8.19 Checklist Guide

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By Max Edwards | Updated 15 August 2024

Implementing a detailed checklist for A.8.19 ensures systematic and controlled software installations, mitigating security risks and enhancing operational integrity. Achieving compliance strengthens organisational security posture, demonstrating a commitment to robust information security practices.

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ISO 27001 A.8.19 Installation of Software on Operational Systems Checklist

A.8.19 Installation of Software on Operational Systems within ISO 27001:2022 focuses on ensuring that the installation of software on operational systems is controlled and managed to prevent unauthorised or harmful software from being introduced.

This control aims to maintain the integrity, security, and functionality of operational systems. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key aspects of this control, common challenges a CISO may face during its implementation, and provide a detailed compliance checklist. Additionally, we will highlight how ISMS.online features can be leveraged to demonstrate compliance effectively.

Scope of Annex A.8.19

ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is an internationally recognised standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS). It provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive company information, ensuring it remains secure. Annex A of ISO 27001:2022 outlines specific controls that organisations should implement to mitigate risks and safeguard their information assets. Among these, control A.8.19 addresses the installation of software on operational systems, ensuring that only authorised, secure, and verified software is installed to maintain system integrity and security.

Implementing this control is critical as unauthorised or malicious software can compromise system security, leading to data breaches, operational disruptions, and financial losses. Therefore, organisations must establish robust processes for software approval, verification, documentation, and change management. This guide will cover these processes, the challenges a CISO might face, and practical solutions to overcome them.


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Why Should You Comply With Annex A.8.19? Key Aspects and Common Challenges

Approval Process

    Challenges: Ensuring that all stakeholders adhere to the formal approval process can be difficult, especially in large organisations with complex structures. Resistance to additional layers of approval from various departments can slow down the process.

  • Solutions: Streamline the approval workflow to make it as efficient as possible, and provide clear communication about the importance of this process in maintaining system security.
  • Related ISO 27001 Clauses: Clause 5.3 (Organisational roles, responsibilities, and authorities), Clause 7.5 (Documented information)

Verification and Validation

    Challenges: Verifying the authenticity and integrity of software before installation can be complex, especially when dealing with third-party software or open-source tools. Ensuring thorough testing without impacting operational timelines is another challenge.

  • Solutions: Implement automated tools for software verification and validation, and establish a robust testing environment that mirrors the operational systems to avoid disruptions.
  • Related ISO 27001 Clauses: Clause 8.1 (Operational planning and control), Clause 8.2 (Information security risk assessment)

Documentation

    Challenges: Maintaining detailed and up-to-date records of all software installations can be labour-intensive. Ensuring that documentation practices are followed consistently across the organisation can be challenging.

  • Solutions: Utilise centralised documentation management systems and automate record-keeping where possible. Regular audits and training can reinforce the importance of accurate documentation.
  • Related ISO 27001 Clauses: Clause 7.5 (Documented information), Clause 9.2 (Internal audit)

Change Management

    Challenges: Integrating software installation into the change management process requires alignment between different teams and departments. There can be resistance to change, especially if it impacts productivity.

  • Solutions: Foster a culture that embraces change management as a critical component of operational security. Use collaboration tools to enhance communication and coordination between teams.
  • Related ISO 27001 Clauses: Clause 8.3 (Information security risk treatment), Clause 6.1.3 (Actions to address risks and opportunities)

Security Measures

    Challenges: Keeping up with the latest security threats and ensuring that all security measures are up-to-date can be overwhelming. Ensuring that all installations are free from malware and vulnerabilities requires constant vigilance.

  • Solutions: Implement continuous monitoring and automated security tools to detect and mitigate threats in real-time. Regularly update security protocols and conduct training sessions to keep staff informed.
  • Related ISO 27001 Clauses: Clause 6.1.4 (Information security risk treatment), Clause 7.2 (Competence), Clause 7.3 (Awareness)

Compliance

    Challenges: Ensuring that all software installations comply with relevant regulatory and organisational policies can be complex, especially with evolving regulations and standards. Maintaining compliance across multiple jurisdictions adds another layer of difficulty.

  • Solutions: Use compliance management tools to stay up-to-date with regulatory requirements and integrate compliance checks into the software installation process. Regular compliance audits can help identify and address any gaps.
  • Related ISO 27001 Clauses: Clause 9.3 (Management review), Clause 10.1 (Nonconformity and corrective action)


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ISMS.online Features for Demonstrating Compliance with A.8.19

Policy Management

  • Policy Templates: Utilise predefined templates to create detailed policies for software installation and approval processes.
  • Version Control: Track changes to policies and ensure that all staff are using the most current versions.

Change Management

  • Workflow Management: Automate and streamline the approval process for software installations.
  • Impact Assessment: Tools to assess the potential impacts of new software on existing systems, integrating this into the broader change management framework.

Documentation

  • Document Access: Maintain detailed records of all software installations, including who authorised and performed the installations.
  • Audit Trails: Ensure a complete and transparent history of changes and approvals related to software installations.

Incident Management

  • Incident Tracker: Monitor and manage any issues that arise during or after software installation.
  • Reporting and Notifications: Automated alerts and comprehensive reports to track compliance and identify potential security incidents.

Risk Management

  • Risk Bank: Store and manage risks associated with software installations, including potential threats and mitigation strategies.
  • Dynamic Risk Map: Visualise and monitor risks in real-time, ensuring proactive management.

Compliance Management

  • Regs Database: Stay up-to-date with relevant regulations and ensure that all software installations comply with legal requirements.
  • Alert System: Receive notifications about changes in regulatory requirements that may impact software installation policies.

Detailed Annex A.8.19 Compliance Checklist

Approval Process

  • Establish a formal approval process for software installation.
  • Assign authorised personnel for software installation approvals.
  • Communicate the approval process to all stakeholders.
  • Regularly review and update the approval process.
  • Ensure a fast-tracked approval process for critical updates.

Verification and Validation

  • Verify the authenticity of software before installation.
  • Validate the integrity of software files.
  • Conduct thorough testing in a controlled environment.
  • Document all verification and validation steps.
  • Use automated tools for software verification.

Documentation

  • Maintain detailed records of all software installations.
  • Include version numbers, installation dates, and responsible personnel in records.
  • Use a centralised documentation management system.
  • Conduct regular audits of software installation records.
  • Ensure records are easily accessible for audits and reviews.

Change Management

  • Integrate software installation into the change management process.
  • Assess the impact of new software on existing systems.
  • Ensure alignment between different teams and departments.
  • Use collaboration tools for effective communication.
  • Document the change management process for each software installation.

Security Measures

  • Implement security controls to prevent malware during installation.
  • Keep security measures up-to-date with the latest threats.
  • Apply security patches and updates promptly.
  • Conduct regular security training sessions for staff.
  • Use continuous monitoring tools to detect and mitigate threats.

Compliance

  • Ensure software installations comply with relevant regulations.
  • Use compliance management tools to stay informed about regulatory changes.
  • Perform regular compliance audits.
  • Address any identified compliance gaps promptly.
  • Maintain documentation of compliance efforts and audit results.


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Every Annex A Control Checklist Table

ISO 27001 Annex A.5 Control Checklist Table

ISO 27001 Control NumberISO 27001 Control Checklist
Annex A.5.1Policies for Information Security Checklist
Annex A.5.2Information Security Roles and Responsibilities Checklist
Annex A.5.3Segregation of Duties Checklist
Annex A.5.4Management Responsibilities Checklist
Annex A.5.5Contact With Authorities Checklist
Annex A.5.6Contact With Special Interest Groups Checklist
Annex A.5.7Threat Intelligence Checklist
Annex A.5.8Information Security in Project Management Checklist
Annex A.5.9Inventory of Information and Other Associated Assets Checklist
Annex A.5.10Acceptable Use of Information and Other Associated Assets Checklist
Annex A.5.11Return of Assets Checklist
Annex A.5.12Classification of Information Checklist
Annex A.5.13Labelling of Information Checklist
Annex A.5.14Information Transfer Checklist
Annex A.5.15Access Control Checklist
Annex A.5.16Identity Management Checklist
Annex A.5.17Authentication Information Checklist
Annex A.5.18Access Rights Checklist
Annex A.5.19Information Security in Supplier Relationships Checklist
Annex A.5.20Addressing Information Security Within Supplier Agreements Checklist
Annex A.5.21Managing Information Security in the ICT Supply Chain Checklist
Annex A.5.22Monitoring, Review and Change Management of Supplier Services Checklist
Annex A.5.23Information Security for Use of Cloud Services Checklist
Annex A.5.24Information Security Incident Management Planning and Preparation Checklist
Annex A.5.25Assessment and Decision on Information Security Events Checklist
Annex A.5.26Response to Information Security Incidents Checklist
Annex A.5.27Learning From Information Security Incidents Checklist
Annex A.5.28Collection of Evidence Checklist
Annex A.5.29Information Security During Disruption Checklist
Annex A.5.30ICT Readiness for Business Continuity Checklist
Annex A.5.31Legal, Statutory, Regulatory and Contractual Requirements Checklist
Annex A.5.32Intellectual Property Rights Checklist
Annex A.5.33Protection of Records Checklist
Annex A.5.34Privacy and Protection of PII Checklist
Annex A.5.35Independent Review of Information Security Checklist
Annex A.5.36Compliance With Policies, Rules, and Standards for Information Security Checklist
Annex A.5.37Documented Operating Procedures Checklist


ISO 27001 Annex A.6 Control Checklist Table

ISO 27001 Control NumberISO 27001 Control Checklist
Annex A.6.1Screening Checklist
Annex A.6.2Terms and Conditions of Employment Checklist
Annex A.6.3Information Security Awareness, Education and Training Checklist
Annex A.6.4Disciplinary Process Checklist
Annex A.6.5Responsibilities After Termination or Change of Employment Checklist
Annex A.6.6Confidentiality or Non-Disclosure Agreements Checklist
Annex A.6.7Remote Working Checklist
Annex A.6.8Information Security Event Reporting Checklist


ISO 27001 Annex A.7 Control Checklist Table

ISO 27001 Control NumberISO 27001 Control Checklist
Annex A.7.1Physical Security Perimeters Checklist
Annex A.7.2Physical Entry Checklist
Annex A.7.3Securing Offices, Rooms, and Facilities Checklist
Annex A.7.4Physical Security Monitoring Checklist
Annex A.7.5Protecting Against Physical and Environmental Threats Checklist
Annex A.7.6Working in Secure Areas Checklist
Annex A.7.7Clear Desk and Clear Screen Checklist
Annex A.7.8Equipment Siting and Protection Checklist
Annex A.7.9Security of Assets Off-Premises Checklist
Annex A.7.10Storage Media Checklist
Annex A.7.11Supporting Utilities Checklist
Annex A.7.12Cabling Security Checklist
Annex A.7.13Equipment Maintenance Checklist
Annex A.7.14Secure Disposal or Re-Use of Equipment Checklist


ISO 27001 Annex A.8 Control Checklist Table

ISO 27001 Control NumberISO 27001 Control Checklist
Annex A.8.1User Endpoint Devices Checklist
Annex A.8.2Privileged Access Rights Checklist
Annex A.8.3Information Access Restriction Checklist
Annex A.8.4Access to Source Code Checklist
Annex A.8.5Secure Authentication Checklist
Annex A.8.6Capacity Management Checklist
Annex A.8.7Protection Against Malware Checklist
Annex A.8.8Management of Technical Vulnerabilities Checklist
Annex A.8.9Configuration Management Checklist
Annex A.8.10Information Deletion Checklist
Annex A.8.11Data Masking Checklist
Annex A.8.12Data Leakage Prevention Checklist
Annex A.8.13Information Backup Checklist
Annex A.8.14Redundancy of Information Processing Facilities Checklist
Annex A.8.15Logging Checklist
Annex A.8.16Monitoring Activities Checklist
Annex A.8.17Clock Synchronisation Checklist
Annex A.8.18Use of Privileged Utility Programs Checklist
Annex A.8.19Installation of Software on Operational Systems Checklist
Annex A.8.20Networks Security Checklist
Annex A.8.21Security of Network Services Checklist
Annex A.8.22Segregation of Networks Checklist
Annex A.8.23Web Filtering Checklist
Annex A.8.24Use of Cryptography Checklist
Annex A.8.25Secure Development Life Cycle Checklist
Annex A.8.26Application Security Requirements Checklist
Annex A.8.27Secure System Architecture and Engineering Principles Checklist
Annex A.8.28Secure Coding Checklist
Annex A.8.29Security Testing in Development and Acceptance Checklist
Annex A.8.30Outsourced Development Checklist
Annex A.8.31Separation of Development, Test and Production Environments Checklist
Annex A.8.32Change Management Checklist
Annex A.8.33Test Information Checklist
Annex A.8.34Protection of Information Systems During Audit Testing Checklist


How ISMS.online Help With A.8.19

Are you ready to take your organisation’s information security management to the next level?

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Don’t wait until a security breach or compliance issue arises. Proactively manage your information security with confidence and ease. Contact ISMS.online today to book a demo and see how our solutions can help you achieve and maintain ISO 27001:2022 compliance effortlessly. Discover the difference that a dedicated, innovative platform can make in safeguarding your organisation’s information assets.

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