What does a Configuration Item represent in a system?

A Configuration Item represents a component of a system that is subject to configuration management. This includes hardware, software, documentation, or any other items that are necessary for the system’s deployment and maintenance. The primary role of a Configuration Item is to ensure that any change or modification is carefully tracked and controlled throughout its lifecycle.

This concept is critical for the configuration control process as it helps maintain the integrity of the system, ensuring that any proposed changes are properly evaluated and authorized. By designating an item as a Configuration Item, teams can implement rigorous controls and monitoring to manage its state effectively, ensuring that any alterations do not adversely impact the system.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of a Configuration Item. A certification of a software product's security features pertains more to compliance and validation rather than the management and tracking of system components. A detailed plan for the software development lifecycle outlines processes rather than focusing on individual items, while an assessment of software performance metrics evaluates the system's effectiveness rather than managing the components involved.