What defines connected systems in relation to FCI/CUI environments?

The concept of connected systems in relation to FCI (Federal Contract Information) and CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) environments centers around how systems interact and influence the security posture of these environments. The correct answer highlights that connected systems are those that can potentially impact the security of FCI and CUI. This means that any system that may exchange data with, or provide services to, an FCI or CUI environment must be considered in the context of the overall security framework.

By recognizing that certain systems can affect the integrity, confidentiality, or availability of FCI and CUI, organizations can implement appropriate security controls to manage risks. This encompasses assessments of how data flows between connected systems, ensuring that protections are in place to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.

Other choices do not align with this definition. Systems that claim to provide complete isolation or are entirely disconnected do not consider the potential interactions that may still pose risks to FCI/CUI. Furthermore, restricting systems to only internal networks does not address external threats or vulnerabilities that can arise even in ostensibly isolated environments. Understanding connected systems in this way is vital for creating comprehensive security measures that safeguard FCI and CUI.