Utilize Automated Software Inventory Tools
Description
Utilize software inventory tools, when possible, throughout the enterprise to automate the discovery and documentation of installed software.
Implementation Checklist
Tool Recommendations
IT asset management and software asset management platform with license optimization and SaaS management
Flexera · Enterprise subscription
Unified endpoint management platform for device enrollment, software deployment, configuration, and compliance across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android
Microsoft · Per-user/per-device subscription
Digital workspace platform combining UEM with virtual app delivery and zero-trust access for endpoint management
Broadcom (VMware) · Per-device subscription
Threats & Vulnerabilities (CIS RAM)
Threat Scenarios
Undetected Software Installation by Threat Actors
ConfidentialityAttackers install persistence tools, keyloggers, or lateral movement utilities that go undetected because no automated tooling monitors for new software installations.
Drift from Approved Software Baseline
IntegrityWithout automated discovery, manual inventory becomes stale rapidly as users install unapproved applications, creating an expanding and invisible attack surface.
Vulnerabilities (When Safeguard Absent)
Manual-Only Software Discovery
Relying on manual processes to track installed software across the enterprise is error-prone and cannot scale, resulting in chronically incomplete and outdated inventories.
No Real-Time Visibility into Software Changes
Without automated inventory tools, there is no mechanism to detect when new software is installed or existing software is modified between manual audit cycles.
Evidence Requirements
| Type | Evidence Item | Collection Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Detection tool deployment evidence (dashboard screenshots, agent status) | Captured monthly |
| Technical | Sample alert/detection output demonstrating capability | Captured quarterly |
| Technical | Asset/software inventory export with required fields populated | Exported quarterly for review |
| Record | Inventory review meeting minutes or sign-off | Per review cycle |
| Document | Governing policy document (current, approved, communicated) | Reviewed annually |