# NIST 800-171 3.1.18 Control connection of mobile devices.

- Source: https://support.icompaas.com/support/solutions/articles/62000229255-nist-800-171-3-1-18-control-connection-of-mobile-devices-
- Section: [Solutions](https://support.icompaas.com/support/solutions) › [NIST](https://support.icompaas.com/support/solutions/62000112528) › [800-171](https://support.icompaas.com/support/solutions/folders/62000168440)
- Last updated: 2026-05-29
- Publisher: iCompaas, Inc. (https://www.icompaas.com)

**Description:** 

A mobile device is a computing device that has a small form factor such that it can easily be carried by a single individual; is designed to operate without a physical connection (e.g., wirelessly transmit or receive information); possesses local, non-removable or removable data storage; and includes a self-contained power source. Mobile devices may also include voice communication capabilities, on-board sensors that allow the device to capture information, or built-in features for synchronizing local data with remote locations. Examples of mobile devices include smartphones, e-readers, and tablets.  Due to the large variety of mobile devices with different technical characteristics and capabilities, organizational restrictions may vary for the different types of devices. Usage restrictions and implementation guidance for mobile devices include: device identification and authentication; configuration management; implementation of mandatory protective software (e.g., malicious code detection, firewall); scanning devices for malicious code; updating virus protection software; scanning for critical software updates and patches; conducting primary operating system (and possibly other resident software) integrity checks; and disabling unnecessary hardware (e.g., wireless, infrared). The need to provide adequate security for mobile devices goes beyond this requirement. Many controls for mobile devices are reflected in other CUI security requirements.  \[SP 800-124\] provides guidance on mobile device security. 

  

**Priority:** High 

  

**Category: Network Security** 

  

**Services Associated with AWS:** 

-   AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM), AWS Device Farm, AWS Directory Service
-   AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM), AWS Directory Service, AWS Secrets Manager
-   AWS Systems Manager, AWS Device Farm, AWS IoT Core
-   AWS Mobile Hub, AWS Device Farm, AWS WAF  
    

  

**Objective Evidence:** 

-   Administrative: documented policies, standards & procedures Administrative: supporting documentation to demonstrate the "secure practices" used to build technology platform-specific secure baseline configurations 
-   Administrative: supporting documentation to demonstrate how Mobile Device Management (MDM) is properly & securely implemented 
-   Technical: screen shot of MDM settings  
    

  

**Possible Technology Considerations:** 

-   **Mobile Device Management (MDM)** 
-   **Secure Baseline Configurations (SBC)** 

  

**What needs to be answered:**

Is there a policy on the use of mobile devices? Can mobile devices connect to the network? Is usage monitored and controlled?

  

-   Control Connection of Mobile Devices  
    Description: This check ensures that the connection of mobile devices to the system is controlled and governed by organizational policies and restrictions. Mobile devices include smartphones, e-readers, tablets, and other computing devices with wireless capabilities.
-   Implement Device Identification and Authentication  
    Description: This check verifies that mobile devices connecting to the system undergo device identification and authentication processes to ensure authorized access and prevent unauthorized devices from connecting.
-   Enforce Configuration Management for Mobile Devices  
    Description: This check confirms that configuration management practices are implemented for mobile devices, ensuring that devices are properly configured with appropriate security settings and policies.
-   Enable Protective Software for Mobile Devices  
    Description: This check ensures that mandatory protective software, such as malicious code detection and firewalls, is implemented on mobile devices to enhance their security against threats.  

  

**More details:**  Mobile device policy in place Only company-issued mobile devices allowed.

## Related compliance guidance

- [NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: a practical implementation guide for cloud teams](https://support.icompaas.com/compliance/nist-sp-800-53-rev-5): How the 800-53 catalogue, baselines and the Risk Management Framework fit together, and which controls take the most work in the cloud.
- [NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC: a practical guide to protecting CUI in the cloud](https://support.icompaas.com/compliance/nist-sp-800-171-rev-3): If the driver is a DoD or federal contract handling CUI, 800-171 (and CMMC) is the scope you actually need.