Using the Common Criteria for IT Security Evaluation

Many organizations and government agencies require the use of Common Criteria certified products and systems and use the Common Criteria methodology in their acquisition process. In fact, in July 2002 the U.S. National Information Assurance Acquisition Policy (NSTISSP #11) mandated the use of CC evaluated IT security products in critical infrastructure systems. This standard provides a comprehensive methodology for specifying, implementing, and evaluating the security of IT products, systems, and networks. Because the Common Criteria (CC) for IT Security Evaluation is a relatively new international standard, little written material exists which explains this how-to knowledge, and it's not exactly easy to interpret.

Designed to be used by acquiring organizations, system integrators, manufacturers, and Common Criteria testing/certification labs, Using the Common Criteria for IT Security Evaluation explains how and why to use the Common Criteria during the acquisition, implementation or evaluation of an IT product, system, network, or services contract. The text describes the Common Criteria methodology; the major processes, steps, activities, concepts, terminology, and how the CC methodology is used throughout the life of a system. It illustrates how each category of user should employ the methodology as well as their different roles and responsibilities.

This text is an essential resource for all those involved in critical infrastructure systems, like those operated by the FAA, the Federal Reserve Bank, DoD, NATO, NASA, and the intelligence agencies. Organized to follow the Common Criteria lifecycle, Using the Common Criteria for IT Security Evaluation provides examples in each chapter to illustrate how the methodology can be applied in three different scenarios: a COTS product, a system or network, and a services contract. The discussion problems at the end of each chapter ensure the text's effectiveness in an educational setting and ensure that those government officials required to comply with Presidential Decision Directive 63 (PDD-63) will be able to do so with confidence.