Mapped to NIST 800-171 Requirement: 3.4.8
CMMC Assessment Objective: CM.L2-3.4.8[b]
What This Objective Means
You’ve already identified nonessential software (CM.L2-3.4.8[a]). Now, you must ensure those programs:
• Are removed entirely from systems where they’re not needed
• Or are disabled if removal is not feasible but restriction is possible
This applies to:
• Operating system features
• Installed applications
• Background services
• Default vendor utilities
• Tools not included in your approved baseline
Why It Matters
Nonessential software increases your exposure to:
• Vulnerabilities (especially if unpatched)
• Misuse by unauthorized users
• Drift from baseline and audit failure
This objective ensures your systems run only what is required—and nothing more.
How to Implement It
• Configure system baselines or imaging tools to exclude unnecessary software
• Use:
◦ Windows Group Policy or AppLocker
◦ Linux package managers (e.g., apt, yum) and service managers (e.g., systemctl)
◦ Mobile Device Management (MDM) or EDR solutions to restrict app installation
• Regularly audit systems for unexpected software or services
• Document which software was removed or disabled and when
Evidence the Assessor Will Look For
• Screenshots or reports showing that nonessential software was removed
• System configuration exports with unnecessary services disabled
• Logs or tickets showing removal actions taken
• Endpoint management console reports confirming policy enforcement
Common Gaps
• Nonessential programs identified but still installed on production systems
• Users can reinstall or re-enable software without approval
• No centralized tool or process to track software removal
How Cuick Trac Helps
Cuick Trac supports this control by:
• Deploying hardened, minimal system builds without nonessential software
• Preventing reinstallation of unapproved software via system controls
• Enforcing software policy compliance through endpoint visibility and restrictions
• Helping document software removal actions for audit and compliance evidence
With Cuick Trac, “nonessential” doesn’t just mean unused—it means removed.
Final CTA
Security starts with subtraction.
Schedule a Cuick Trac demo and eliminate unnecessary software from your CUI environment—for good.