Why evidence matters
Security implementation and assessment evidence are related but not the same. Evidence shows what is configured, documented, reviewed, and repeated.
Small contractors should build evidence continuously instead of waiting until an assessment deadline.
Core document set
System Security Plan, scope diagram, asset inventory, data flow diagram, policies, procedures, POA&M, incident response plan, access control procedures, configuration standards, and training records.
Identity and access evidence
User list, privileged user list, MFA settings, access review records, account creation and termination procedures, password policy, remote access settings, and administrator approval records.
Device and endpoint evidence
Asset inventory, encryption status, endpoint protection status, patch reports, baseline configurations, vulnerability scan results, and exception tracking.
Network evidence
Network diagram, firewall rules, VPN settings, segmentation design, Wi-Fi settings, external exposure review, and remote management restrictions.
Audit and incident evidence
Log sources, log retention settings, alert process, incident tickets, tabletop exercise records, and after-action reports.
Evidence maintenance rhythm
Monthly: access and vulnerability review. Quarterly: policy and asset review. Annually: risk assessment, incident tabletop, training completion, and SSP update.
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