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protected distribution system (PDS)

Abbreviations / Acronyms / Synonyms:

PDS

Definitions:

  Wireline or fiber-optic distribution system used to transmit unencrypted classified national security information through an area of lesser classification or control. Note: "An area of lesser classification or control" refers to unencrypted classified national security information passing from, for example, an area cleared for Top Secret material to an area only cleared for Secret material or from a medium-threat area with greater physical security controls to a high- threat area with fewer physical security controls.
Sources:
CNSSI 4009-2022 from NSA/CSS Policy 3-12
NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5 under protected distribution system from CNSSI 4009-2022