PCI DSS 2.1.1: Document Secure Configuration Policies
Requirement 2.1.1 mandates that all security policies and procedures governing secure device configuration are documented, maintained, and communicated across your organization. Without documented policies, your security practices remain inconsistent and unmeasurable—leaving your compliance audit at risk.
What this means
This control requires you to create formal documentation of all security policies and procedures related to Requirement 2 (Device and Software Management). These policies must be current, actively used by your organization, and understood by every employee with relevant responsibilities. Documentation serves as the foundation for consistent security practices and demonstrates to auditors that your configuration controls are intentional and systematic.
How to comply
- 1.Identify all security policies and procedures that fall under Requirement 2, including device hardening, default password changes, and configuration management.
- 2.Document each policy in a centralized format with clear ownership, effective dates, and revision history.
- 3.Ensure policies address configuration standards for all system components: servers, network devices, workstations, and application systems.
- 4.Distribute documented policies to all affected parties—system administrators, security teams, and relevant business units.
- 5.Establish a review schedule (typically annual) to keep policies current with evolving threats and business changes.
- 6.Create an acknowledgment process so employees confirm they have read and understood the policies.
Evidence auditors look for
- Formal security policy document covering device and software configuration requirements
- Policy revision history showing regular updates and approval dates
- Distribution records (email logs, intranet access logs) proving policies reached all affected teams
- Employee acknowledgment forms or training records confirming understanding of policies
- Configuration standards documentation referencing the formal policy
- Change logs showing policy maintenance and updates over the compliance period
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
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