Perform Network Configuration Audit using eAuditor
A Network Configuration Audit is a systematic review of network device settings, security controls, and operational configurations to ensure they align with approved standards, security best practices, and organizational requirements. Performing Network Configuration Audit using eAuditor ensures a thorough evaluation of routers, switches, firewalls, and related infrastructure while maintaining reliability, performance, and regulatory compliance.
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Purpose and Scope of Network Configuration Audit
The Network Configuration Audit focuses on validating that all network components are configured correctly, securely, and consistently across the environment.
1.1 Objectives
- Ensure Network Configuration Audit compliance with approved configuration baselines
- Identify misconfigurations, insecure parameters, and unauthorized changes
- Reduce security risks and network downtime
- Support internal, external, and regulatory audit requirements
1.2 Assets Covered
- Routers and Layer 3 devices
- Switches and network distribution equipment
- Firewalls and security gateways
- Wireless access points and controllers
- VPN devices and remote access solutions
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Preparing the Network Configuration Audit in eAuditor
2.1 Audit Template Setup
Design a dedicated Network Configuration Audit checklist in eAuditor covering:
- Asset identification and ownership
- Configuration baseline compliance
- Security and access control settings
- Network services and protocols
- Logging, monitoring, and backup controls
Checklist configuration should include:
- Yes / No / Not Applicable responses
- Mandatory comments for deviations
- Photo or file uploads for configuration evidence
- Automatic action creation for non-compliance
2.2 Reference Frameworks
Align the Network Configuration Audit with:
- Internal IT and network security policies
- CIS Benchmarks
- ISO/IEC 27001 and 27002 controls
- NIST network security guidelines
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Device Identification and Inventory Validation
3.1 Asset Verification
During the Network Configuration Audit, confirm:
- Device hostname, model, and serial number
- Asset tag and inventory reference
- Physical or logical network location
- Assigned administrator or owner
3.2 Firmware and Operating System Review
- Approved firmware or OS versions in use
- Latest security patches applied
- Unsupported or end-of-life devices identified
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Configuration Baseline Assessment
4.1 Core Configuration Controls
The Network Configuration Audit should verify that:
- Default credentials and settings are removed
- IP addressing and subnetting follow standards
- Time synchronization (NTP) is configured
- All configuration changes are documented and approved
4.2 Interface and Port Configuration
- Unused ports are disabled
- VLANs are correctly assigned
- Trunk and access ports are clearly defined
- Port security features are enabled where required
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Security and Access Control Review
5.1 User and Administrator Access
Audit items should confirm:
- Strong password and authentication policies
- Role-based access control enforcement
- Multi-factor authentication where applicable
- Logging of all administrative activities
5.2 Firewall Rules and ACLs
- Least-privilege principles applied
- Redundant or obsolete rules removed
- Proper filtering of inbound and outbound traffic
- Network segmentation correctly enforced
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Network Services and Protocol Validation
6.1 Service Configuration
The Network Configuration Audit should ensure:
- Enabling of only necessary services
- Disabling of insecure protocols such as Telnet
- Enforcing of secure protocols like SSH and HTTPS
6.2 Wireless Network Controls
- Strong encryption standards configured
- Separation of guest and internal networks
- SSID access and broadcasting policies reviewed
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Monitoring, Logging, and Backup Controls
7.1 Logging and Alerting
Verify during the Network Configuration Audit:
- Enabling of centralized logging
- Log retention meets policy requirements
- Alerts are configured for critical events
7.2 Configuration Backup Management
- Automated configuration backups are scheduled
- Backup data is stored securely
- Restoration procedures are tested periodically
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Risk Identification and Evidence Collection
8.1 Risk Assessment
Using eAuditor within the Network Configuration Audit:
- Assign risk levels to findings
- Document potential impact and likelihood
- Link risks directly to configuration gaps
8.2 Evidence Documentation
- Upload configuration files or screenshots
- Attach network diagrams if required
- Record detailed auditor observations
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Corrective Actions and Workflow Automation
9.1 Action Assignment
- Automatically generate corrective actions
- Assign responsibilities to network or IT teams
- Define priority levels and completion deadlines
9.2 Verification and Closure
- Track corrective actions in real time
- Re-audit corrected items
- Maintain historical records for future Network Configuration Audit reviews
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Reporting and Continuous Improvement
10.1 Audit Reporting
Generate Network Configuration Audit reports showing:
- Compliance scores by device or location
- Key risks and recurring issues
- Corrective action status and accountability
10.2 Continuous Improvement
- Analyze trends across multiple audits
- Refine configuration baselines
- Strengthen overall network governance
Final Summary
Conducting a Network Configuration Audit using eAuditor delivers a structured, evidence-driven approach to validating network settings, improving security posture, ensuring compliance, and maintaining stable and reliable network operations.