PD ISO/IEC TR 19791:2010

Overview

PD ISO/IEC TR 19791:2010 provides comprehensive guidance for conducting security assessments of operational information systems. This technical report establishes systematic methodologies for evaluating security controls, identifying vulnerabilities, and assessing the overall security posture of live IT environments. The standard addresses the critical need for organizations to maintain continuous security oversight of their operational systems while minimizing disruption to business processes.

This 246-page document serves as an essential reference for security professionals, IT auditors, and compliance teams responsible for maintaining robust cybersecurity frameworks in operational environments.

Key Requirements

The standard outlines structured approaches for security assessment activities across multiple domains:

• Risk-based assessment methodologies that prioritize critical system components
• Non-intrusive evaluation techniques that preserve system availability
• Documentation requirements for assessment findings and remediation recommendations
• Integration protocols with existing security management frameworks
• Stakeholder communication processes throughout the assessment lifecycle

Assessment scope definition receives particular attention, ensuring evaluations remain focused on business-critical assets while maintaining comprehensive coverage of security controls. The standard emphasizes the importance of establishing clear assessment boundaries and obtaining appropriate organizational approvals before commencing evaluation activities.

Assessment Methodologies

PD ISO/IEC TR 19791:2010 presents multiple assessment approaches tailored to different operational contexts. These methodologies accommodate varying organizational maturity levels, resource constraints, and regulatory requirements.

The document provides detailed guidance on selecting appropriate assessment tools and techniques, including automated vulnerability scanning, manual security testing, and configuration review procedures. Special consideration is given to legacy systems and critical infrastructure components that may require modified assessment approaches.

Operational Considerations

The standard addresses practical challenges associated with assessing live systems, including scheduling constraints, change management coordination, and incident response procedures. Clear protocols are established for handling unexpected discoveries during assessment activities, ensuring appropriate escalation and containment measures.

Implementation Benefits

Organizations implementing this technical report gain access to proven methodologies that enhance their security assessment capabilities. The structured approach reduces assessment time while improving result quality and consistency across different evaluation cycles.

Key implementation advantages include:

• Standardized assessment procedures that ensure comprehensive coverage
• Reduced risk of operational disruption during security evaluations
• Enhanced communication between security teams and business stakeholders
• Improved integration with existing risk management processes
• Consistent documentation standards that support audit requirements

The guidance enables organizations to develop internal assessment capabilities while maintaining alignment with international best practices. This approach reduces dependence on external consultants while building organizational security expertise.

Compliance Value

PD ISO/IEC TR 19791:2010 supports compliance with multiple regulatory frameworks and industry standards. The assessment methodologies align with requirements from ISO 27001, NIST frameworks, and sector-specific regulations that mandate regular security evaluations.

For organizations subject to regulatory oversight, the standard provides defensible assessment procedures that demonstrate due diligence in security management. The comprehensive documentation requirements support audit activities and regulatory reporting obligations.

The technical report particularly benefits organizations operating in regulated industries where security assessment activities must balance thorough evaluation with operational continuity requirements. Financial services, healthcare, and critical infrastructure sectors find the guidance especially valuable for maintaining compliance while preserving service availability.

Professional Application

Security professionals utilize this standard to establish consistent assessment practices across diverse IT environments. The guidance supports both internal security teams and external assessment providers in delivering reliable evaluation services.

The document serves as a foundation for developing organizational security assessment policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with international best practices while accommodating specific operational requirements.