3.6 Ensure wireless interfaces are disabled

Information

Wireless networking is used when wired networks are unavailable. Debian contains a wireless tool kit to allow system administrators to configure and use wireless networks.

Rationale:

If wireless is not to be used, wireless devices can be disabled to reduce the potential attack surface.

Impact:

Many if not all laptop workstations and some desktop workstations will connect via wireless requiring these interfaces be enabled.

NOTE: Nessus has provided the target output to assist in reviewing the benchmark to ensure target compliance.

Solution

Run the following command to disable any wireless interfaces:

# ip link set <interface> down

Disable any wireless interfaces in your network configuration.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/3399

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-6, 800-53|CM-7, CSCv6|15.4, CSCv7|15.4, CSCv7|15.5

Plugin: Unix

Control ID: eb18585faf80ac5e6713c3e03fa6cb519b780e169492238b85df2cf3a55ce9e7