A cybersecurity analyst is investigating a significant delay in the remediation of a critical vulnerability on a system managed by a third-party partner. The partner claims they are not obligated to meet the company's standard 14-day patching window. The analyst reviews the governing document and finds that it outlines a mutual intent to collaborate on security matters and defines general roles, but it does not specify patching timelines, service-level objectives, or penalties for non-performance. Which of the following documents is the analyst MOST likely reviewing?
The document described is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). An MOU is a non-binding agreement that establishes a framework for collaboration and defines general roles and responsibilities. Its primary weakness, and a common inhibitor to remediation, is that it typically lacks the specific, measurable, and enforceable commitments found in a Service Level Agreement (SLA), such as patching timelines and financial penalties. A Statement of Work (SOW) would detail specific project deliverables, and a Business Partnership Agreement (BPA) is a broader legal contract establishing the commercial relationship.
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What is a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) used for in cybersecurity partnerships?
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How does an SLA differ from an MOU?
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What are the weaknesses of using an MOU instead of other agreements like an SLA or BPA?