Standards agency seeks input on computer security

The National Institute for Standards is soliciting public comments on two of its draft reports concerning the security of federal technology systems.

The agency, which historically has published reference materials and guidance in the computer security, has prepared a draft report called Security Considerations in Federal Information Technology Procurements, which aims to provide broad resources to federal procurement officials to take into consideration when purchasing new equipment.

It also details security steps that must be integrated into procurement phases, including the mission and planning of purchases to the disposition and closeout of a contract. NIST's Guide to Selecting Information Technology Security Products details specific technologies to meet computer security needs.

The agency's staff will take the comments, which are due Monday, into consideration when formulating final reports, which come out sometime early next year.