GC Enterprise Architecture/Framework/SecurityGuide

Security architecture

The GC Enterprise Security Architecture program is a government‑wide initiative to provide a standardized approach to developing IT security architecture, ensuring that basic security blocks are implemented across the enterprise as the infrastructure is being renewed.

Build security into the system life cycle across all architectural layers

• identify and categorize information based on the degree of injury that could be expected to result from a compromise of its confidentiality, integrity and availability
• implement a continuous security approach, in alignment with Centre for Cyber Security’s IT Security Risk Management Framework; perform threat modelling to minimize the attack surface by limiting services exposed and information exchanged to the minimum necessary
• apply proportionate security measures that address business and user needs while adequately protecting data at rest and data in transit
• design systems to be resilient and available in order to support service continuity

Ensure secure access to systems and services

• identify and authenticate individuals, processes or devices to an appropriate level of assurance, based on clearly defined roles, before granting access to information and services; leverage enterprise services such as Government of Canada trusted digital identity solutions that are supported by the Pan‑Canadian Trust Framework
• constrain service interfaces to authorized entities (users and devices), with clearly defined roles; segment and separate information based on sensitivity of information, in alignment with ITSG‑22 and ITSG‑38. Management interfaces may require increased levels of protection
• implement HTTPS for secure web connections and Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance (DMARC) for enhanced email security
• establish secure interconnections between systems through secure APIs or leveraging centrally managed hybrid IT connectivity services

Maintain secure operations

• establish processes to maintain visibility of assets and ensure the prompt application of security‑related patches and updates in order to reduce exposure to vulnerabilities, in accordance with GC Patch Management Guidance
• enable event logging, in accordance with GC Event Logging Guidance, and perform monitoring of systems and services in order to detect, prevent, and respond to attacks
• establish an incident management plan in alignment with the GC Cyber Security Event Management Plan (GC CSEMP) and report incidents to the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security