A computer configuration policy for an aviation company should emphasize security, regulatory compliance, reliability, and standardized system management. Here's a comprehensive template you can adapt to your organization's requirements.
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Computer Configuration Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish standardized computer configuration requirements that ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the organization's information systems. This policy supports cybersecurity best practices, operational reliability, and compliance with applicable aviation regulations and industry standards.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
- All company-owned desktops, laptops, workstations, and tablets.
- All employees, contractors, consultants, and third parties authorized to use company computing devices.
- All departments, including Flight Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Finance, Human Resources, Ground Operations, and Administration.
3. Policy Statement
All computers connected to the company's network shall be configured according to approved security standards. Users are prohibited from modifying system configurations without authorization from the Information Technology (IT) Department.
4. Standard Computer Configuration
4.1 Operating System
- Only IT-approved operating systems shall be installed.
- Operating systems must be licensed and supported by the manufacturer.
- Automatic security updates shall be enabled.
- End-of-life operating systems are prohibited.
4.2 Device Naming
All computers shall follow the approved naming convention, for example:
Location-Department-DeviceType-Number
Example:
- HQ-OPS-LT-001
- MRO-ENG-PC-015
4.3 Software Installation
- Only authorized software may be installed.
- Software requests shall be approved by IT.
- Unauthorized, pirated, or personal software is prohibited.
- Software licenses shall be maintained and documented.
4.4 User Accounts
- Every employee shall have a unique user account.
- Shared accounts are prohibited unless specifically approved.
- Administrator privileges shall be restricted to authorized IT personnel.
- Strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) shall be implemented where supported.
4.5 Antivirus and Endpoint Protection
- All computers shall have company-approved endpoint protection installed.
- Real-time protection must remain enabled.
- Virus definitions shall be updated automatically.
- Security alerts shall be monitored by IT.
4.6 Encryption
- Full disk encryption shall be enabled on laptops and portable devices.
- Sensitive company information shall be stored only in approved locations.
4.7 Firewall
- The operating system firewall shall remain enabled.
- Firewall rules shall be managed by IT.
- Users shall not disable firewall protection.
4.8 USB and Removable Media
- USB storage devices shall be restricted according to business requirements.
- Only approved encrypted removable media may be used.
- Unknown external devices shall not be connected to company computers.
4.9 Internet and Email Configuration
- Web filtering shall be enabled.
- Email security protections shall include spam and phishing filtering.
- Users shall not bypass internet security controls.
4.10 Backup
- Business-critical data shall be backed up according to the company's Backup Policy.
- Users shall save documents in approved network or cloud storage locations.
4.11 Logging and Monitoring
- Security logs shall be retained according to company requirements.
- System activity may be monitored to protect company assets and comply with regulatory obligations.
5. Patch Management
- Security patches shall be deployed promptly after testing.
- Critical vulnerabilities shall be addressed as soon as practical based on risk.
- Systems that cannot be patched shall have documented compensating controls.
6. Hardware Standards
All company computers shall:
- Meet minimum hardware specifications approved by IT.
- Include Trusted Platform Module (TPM) where available.
- Support secure boot functionality.
- Use approved BIOS/UEFI settings protected with administrator passwords.
7. Physical Security
- Computers shall be physically secured when unattended.
- Screen locks shall activate automatically after a period of inactivity.
- Portable devices shall not be left unattended in public areas or vehicles.
8. Remote Access
- Remote access shall be provided only through approved secure methods.
- Multi-factor authentication shall be required.
- Personal devices may only access company resources if authorized and compliant with company security requirements.
9. Asset Management
IT shall maintain an inventory including:
- Asset number
- Serial number
- Assigned user
- Device location
- Warranty information
- Configuration details
10. Responsibilities
Information Technology Department
- Configure and maintain standard computer builds.
- Deploy updates and security patches.
- Monitor endpoint security.
- Maintain asset records.
- Respond to security incidents.
Employees
- Use company computers responsibly.
- Report lost or stolen devices immediately.
- Protect passwords and company information.
- Do not alter security configurations.
Department Managers
- Ensure staff comply with this policy.
- Notify IT of personnel changes affecting system access.
11. Compliance
Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, suspension of system access, or other measures in accordance with company policies.
12. Review
This policy shall be reviewed annually or whenever significant changes occur in technology, cybersecurity requirements, or applicable aviation regulations.
13. References
- Company Information Security Policy
- Acceptable Use Policy
- Access Control Policy
- Backup and Recovery Policy
- Incident Response Policy
- Applicable Civil Aviation Authority regulations
- ISO/IEC 27001 Information Security Management
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework
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This template aligns with general information security practices used in aviation organizations. If your company is certified or regulated under standards such as ISO 27001, IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), or specific Civil Aviation Authority requirements, the policy can be tailored to include those controls and references.
