What is a Baseline Configuration?

A Baseline Configuration refers to an agreed set of specifications for a system at a specific point in time. This concept is vital in various fields, particularly in information technology and cybersecurity, as it establishes a standard against which system performance and security can be measured. This baseline becomes a reference point for managing system changes, ensuring consistency, and enhancing security by delineating what constitutes a normal operating condition.

Creating a Baseline Configuration involves documenting the system's components, settings, and any applicable policies that govern its operation. This documentation is crucial for effective risk management, as it allows organizations to identify deviations from the established baseline that may indicate security incidents or performance issues. Additionally, during audits or assessments, the baseline serves as a benchmark for evaluating compliance with security standards and regulations.

The other options, while related to system management and security, do not define a Baseline Configuration. Operational procedures for incident response focus on the processes to handle security incidents rather than the system's state at a point in time. The record of changes made to software pertains to change management, capturing the modifications to system components rather than the baseline state itself. A list of potential security threats is relevant to risk assessment but does not encompass the specifications of the baseline configuration. Thus, the definition provided in