What is defined as a Baseline Configuration?

A Baseline Configuration refers to a set of agreed specifications that serve as a reference point for future updates and changes to a system. This configuration is essential in maintaining the integrity and security of systems, particularly in industrial environments where consistent standards are critical for safety and reliability. By establishing a Baseline Configuration, organizations can ensure that any modifications to the system are aligned with established specifications, making it easier to manage changes and assess their impact on system performance and security.

Having a Baseline Configuration allows for better control over system updates, helping to minimize the potential for vulnerabilities that could be introduced during modification. It facilitates routine maintenance and compliance with regulatory requirements, as the baseline can serve as a benchmark against which current configurations can be validated.

In contrast, options that suggest configurations can be modified without approval or that focus on prohibiting certain software do not align with the concept of a Baseline Configuration, which emphasizes oversight and standardized practices. Similarly, a method for auditing system performance does not directly relate to the agreement and documentation of specifications inherent in a Baseline Configuration.