2.5 Enable SSL for Network File copy (NFC)

Information

Enable SSL encryption for the Network File Copy function used during Virtual Machine
migration or clone operations between two ESXi hosts.

*Rationale*

NFC (Network File Copy) is the name of the mechanism used to migrate or clone a VM
between two ESXi hosts over the network. By default, SSL is used only for the
authentication of the transfer, but if desired, SSL can also be enabled on the data transfer.
Without this setting VM contents could potentially be sniffed if the management network is
not adequately isolated and secured.

Solution

Perform the following-1. From the vSphere client select 'Administration -> vCenter Server Settings ->Advanced Settings'
2. Check if the config.nfc.useSSL key exists
3. If the key does not exist, add it to the list of keys
4. Set the value of the key to true

Impact-Using SSL may reduce performance of actions involving NFC, such as VM clone or
migration.

Default Value-The prescribed state is not the default state.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/902

Item Details

Category: SYSTEM AND COMMUNICATIONS PROTECTION

References: 800-53|SC-8(1)

Plugin: VMware

Control ID: ce2e0ad528353e6145ccbb8d8f0b66cadb09be6370e69f028eece6c0fe8a728d