NIST 800-53 REV 5 • SYSTEM AND COMMUNICATIONS PROTECTION
SC-8(5) — Protected Distribution System
Implement {{ insert: param, sc-08.05_odp.01 }} to {{ insert: param, sc-08.05_odp.02 }} during transmission.
CMMC Practice Mapping
No direct CMMC mapping
NIST 800-171 Mapping
No direct NIST 800-171 mapping
Related Controls
No related controls listed
Supplemental Guidance
The purpose of a protected distribution system is to deter, detect, and/or make difficult physical access to the communication lines that carry national security information.
Practitioner Notes
A protected distribution system (PDS) is a physically secured cable run — conduit, locked trays, or alarmed pathways — used to carry classified or sensitive data without encryption, because the physical path itself is protected.
Example 1: Install network cables carrying sensitive data in locked, alarmed conduit that is inspected regularly. The conduit runs from your secure server room to your secure operations center with no accessible junction points in between.
Example 2: For classified environments, follow the CNSSI 7003 standard for PDS installation. Maintain a PDS log documenting installation, inspections, and any maintenance. Conduct visual inspections of the conduit at defined intervals to check for tampering.