Framework: The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Top 18 Controls

Safeguard 12.3 requires organizations to identify, isolate, and remove legacy or unused network devices that no longer serve operational or security purposes. Outdated hardware and abandoned configurations pose a hidden but significant risk—they often lack vendor support, remain unpatched, and may still provide active network connections that attackers can exploit. These devices can also create bottlenecks or interfere with newer technologies, introducing inefficiencies alongside vulnerabilities. The safeguard directs enterprises to inventory all network devices, compare them against current architectural needs, and decommission those that are obsolete or unneeded. Proper decommissioning includes securely wiping configurations, removing credentials, and updating documentation to reflect the change. By eliminating legacy and unused assets, organizations simplify their infrastructure and reduce attack surface, improving both performance and manageability.

To operationalize this safeguard, enterprises should integrate network discovery tools with configuration databases to identify inactive or unsupported devices automatically. Clear criteria—such as end-of-life status, replacement availability, and utilization metrics—guide retirement decisions. Decommissioning procedures must include secure disposal of hardware and revocation of any associated access rights or certificates. For systems that cannot be immediately retired due to dependencies, isolation within a restricted network segment mitigates risk until full replacement occurs. Documentation updates ensure that inventory records, topology diagrams, and change logs remain accurate. Regular reviews, conducted at least annually, confirm that no abandoned assets persist. By institutionalizing these practices, Safeguard 12.3 transforms infrastructure management into a lifecycle-driven process—one that prioritizes security, efficiency, and accountability over convenience or habit.
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